# What is double opt-in?

> Double opt-in is a two-step consent process: after a user signs up for messages, you send a confirmation asking them to confirm the subscription (for example by replying YES), and only add them once they do. It produces the cleanest, most defensible consent — proving the number's owner genuinely wanted the messages — which protects both deliverability and compliance for marketing programs.

- Canonical URL: https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-double-opt-in
- Language: en
- Last reviewed: 2026-07-22
- Publisher: BroadNet (https://www.broadnet.me)

## How it works

Step one, the user opts in (a form, a keyword); step two, you send a confirmation and only subscribe them when they confirm. This filters out typos, mistakes, and malicious signups. See /answers/sms-opt-in-best-practices.

## Why use it

Double opt-in yields verified, engaged subscribers and strong proof of consent, lowering complaint and opt-out rates and strengthening your compliance position. See /answers/sms-compliance-checklist.

## Single vs double

Single opt-in is lower friction but weaker proof; double opt-in trades a little sign-up friction for much cleaner consent. Higher-risk or regulated programs favour double. See /answers/what-is-dnc.

## Related

- [All answers](https://www.broadnet.me/answers)
- [Glossary](https://www.broadnet.me/answers)
- [What are SMS opt-in best practices?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/sms-opt-in-best-practices)
- [What is a DNC (Do Not Call) list?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/what-is-dnc)
- [What is on an SMS compliance checklist?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/sms-compliance-checklist)
- [How do I handle SMS opt-outs?](https://www.broadnet.me/answers/how-to-handle-sms-opt-outs)
- [Two-way SMS](https://www.broadnet.me/products/two-way-sms)