SMS Consent & Opt-In Policy

Last updated: April 18, 2026

1. About the RateAPI SMS Service

RateAPI operates a text-message assistant at +1 (866) 961-2957 that lets consumers ask questions about publicly available U.S. mortgage, auto loan, HELOC, personal loan, and credit card rates sourced from credit unions and other lenders. Users may also ask the assistant to set up informational rate-drop alerts ("notify me if 30-year mortgage rates in California drop below 5.5%").

The service is free. Standard message and data rates from your wireless carrier may apply.

2. How Users Opt In

Consumers opt in to the RateAPI SMS service by one of the following documented methods:

  • Texting our toll-free number directly: When a consumer sends any message to +1 (866) 961-2957, they are initiating the conversation and consenting to receive a reply and continued messages in that thread. Our automated first reply to every new consumer includes the disclosure: "Reply STOP to opt out."
  • Web opt-in (future): If we later add a form on rateapi.dev that collects a phone number and sends the first SMS, the form will include a clearly labeled, unchecked consent checkbox reading: "I agree to receive text messages from RateAPI about rate data and any alerts I request. Message & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of any purchase." The checkbox will not be pre-checked, and we will retain a timestamped record of each opt-in for compliance purposes.

We do not purchase, rent, or share phone numbers. Every number that receives a message from us has taken an affirmative action (either texted us or submitted a consent form) to initiate the conversation.

3. Types of Messages You May Receive

Consumers who have opted in may receive:

  • Informational replies: Direct answers to rate questions you asked. Example: "Top 30yr mortgage rates in CA for $400k: 5.875% APR (First Tech FCU), 5.99% APR (Navy Federal), 6.125% APR (Alliant). Reply STOP to opt out."
  • Rate-alert notifications (only if requested): If you explicitly ask the assistant to set up an alert, we send a message when the threshold you specified is crossed. Example: "Rate alert: 30yr mortgage in CA is now 5.42%. You asked to be notified below 5.50%. Reply STOP to cancel alerts."
  • Help and opt-out confirmations: Responses to the HELP, STOP, and START keywords described below.

We do not send marketing messages, promotional offers, or any content unrelated to the rate questions and alerts you request.

4. Message Frequency

Message frequency varies based on your interactions. You will only receive a reply when you text us, plus one message per rate-alert trigger for any alert you create. Typical consumers receive fewer than 10 messages per month.

5. Opting Out (STOP)

You can opt out of all RateAPI SMS messages at any time by replying STOP to any message from us. We also honor STOPALL, UNSUBSCRIBE, CANCEL, END, and QUIT.

When you opt out:

  • You will receive a single confirmation message and no further messages
  • Any rate-drop alerts you created are automatically cancelled
  • Your phone number is marked as opted out and will not receive further SMS

To re-subscribe, reply START or UNSTOP.

6. Getting Help (HELP)

Reply HELP or INFO to any message for instructions and our support contact information. You can also email [email protected] at any time.

7. Message and Data Rates

Message and data rates may apply. Carrier charges are governed by your own wireless plan; RateAPI does not charge a fee for the SMS service itself.

8. Carrier Liability

Wireless carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

9. Privacy

Your phone number and the content of messages you send us are used only to provide the SMS service and any alerts you request. We do not sell or share your phone number with third parties for marketing. Full details are in our Privacy Policy.

10. Eligibility

The RateAPI SMS service is intended for U.S. residents aged 18 or older. By texting us, you represent that you meet these requirements.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this SMS policy from time to time. Material changes will be posted here with a new "Last updated" date. Continued use of the SMS service after an update constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

12. Contact

Questions about the SMS service or this policy? Email [email protected].