Archive · 27 Aug 2026
FTC raises Do Not Call registry fees starting October 1
The US government keeps a list of phone numbers that do not want most marketing calls.
Telemarketers must check this list before calling people in the United States.
Starting October 1, companies will pay slightly more to use the list.
Checking one area code will cost $85.
Using the list for every US area code will cost up to $23,425 each year.
Adding another area code for six months will cost $43.
The first five area codes will still be free.
The new prices do not change the calling rules or the groups that can use the list for free.
The Federal Trade Commission approved higher fees for telemarketers accessing the National Do Not Call Registry.
The revised fees take effect October 1, the start of the US government’s 2027 fiscal year.
Access to one area code will cost $85, up from $82 during fiscal 2026.
The nationwide maximum will rise to $23,425, while six-month access to an additional area code will cost $43.
The first five area codes remain free, and certain charities and political callers remain eligible for free access.
- Who
- The Federal Trade Commission and telemarketing organisations subject to the registry’s requirements.
- What
- The FTC approved higher fees for accessing the National Do Not Call Registry.
- When
- The revised fees take effect October 1, at the beginning of fiscal year 2027.
- Where
- The fees apply to telemarketers calling consumers in the United States.
- Why
- The FTC is setting the amounts covered telemarketers must pay to access registered telephone numbers for the coming fiscal year.
- Single-area-code fee
- $85, up from $82 in fiscal 2026.
- Nationwide annual maximum
- $23,425, up from $22,626.
- Additional area code
- $43 for six months, up from $41.
- Free access
- The first five area codes remain free.
- Exempt organisations
- Certain charities and political callers may obtain the entire registry without charge.
- Approval vote
- The FTC approved publication of the revised fee schedule by a 2-0 vote.
- Registry established
- The National Do Not Call Registry was established by the federal government in 2003.