What happens when a Resp Org disconnects their SMS/800 Service

What happens when a Resp Org disconnects their SMS/800 Service?

The process that follows a Resp Org’s disconnection from the SMS/800 system is designed to keep confusion to a minimum. And knowing how the process works can aid Resp Orgs trying to assist stranded customers.

When a Resp Org disconnects service, the SMS/800 Help Desk receives word from the SMS/800 Business Manager. The SMS/800 Help Desk then transfers all of the Resp Org’s numbers to a special Resp Org ID. This ID stays with the numbers during a 30-day holding period. After that, the group of numbers is disconnected.

Five days after the numbers are transferred to the control of the SMS/800 Help Desk, the SMS/800 Help Desk sends out a Client Support Bulletin (CSB) announcing the affected numbers. If a new Resp Org doesn’t pick up the numbers within four months, they are automatically moved to the spare pool.

During the four-month interim period, Resp Orgs can begin supporting disconnected customers by filing the proper paperwork with the SMS/800 Help Desk. This includes a Resp Org Change Authorization Form (SMS-10), and a letter of authorization from the customer.

Resp Orgs can find the SMS-10 form on the SMS/800 Website under the ‘Forms’ link.
Once this process is completed, the number is transferred from its disconnected ID code to the ID associated with the new Resp Org.

Resp Orgs should watch for CSBs related to disconnections, and do what they can to support the stranded customers.

Resp Orgs with questions about the disconnection process can check the Resp Org Resources link on the SMS/800 Website. Look for ‘Disconnection’ in the section called ‘SMS/800 Policies’. Or you can call the SMS/800 Help Desk at 888-SMS-3300, Option 1.