FCC Compliance & Fax Rules
Last Updated: March 2026
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable, including telephone signaling and facsimile transmissions in the United States. Outbound faxes must comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA") and the Junk Fax Prevention Act.
1. Sender Identification Requirements
Under FCC rules, it is unlawful to send a fax unless the sender clearly marks on the margin, header, or cover sheet of each page:
- The date and time the transmission is sent;
- An identification of the business, other entity, or individual sending the transmission; and
- The telephone number of the sending machine or of such business, other entity, or individual.
Our templates are configured with sender block structures (Company Name, Sender Name, Phone, and Fax fields) to make it easy for you to specify this identification data.
2. Junk Fax Advertising Restrictions
The FCC prohibits the transmission of unsolicited advertisements via fax. Commercial advertising faxes can only be sent if:
- You have an established business relationship (EBR) with the recipient;
- The recipient voluntarily provided their fax number; and
- The advertisement includes a clear, prominent notice explaining how the recipient can opt out of receiving future unsolicited advertising faxes.
3. Opt-Out Notice Mandate
To meet FCC criteria, an opt-out notice on an advertisement cover sheet must state:
4. Enforcement and Violations
The FCC actively enforces these provisions. Individuals who receive unsolicited fax advertisements can file complaints with the FCC. Violations can lead to monetary forfeitures and legal penalties. Ensure your fax campaigns follow these guidelines strictly.
