The TCPA Explained for Consumers
A plain-language map of the federal statute, FCC rules, consent, prerecorded voices, autodialers, and do-not-call protections.
Statute · rules · decisions
TCPA resource center
A plain-language path through 47 U.S.C. § 227, current FCC rules, key court decisions, consent, opt-outs, and do-not-call protections.
01 · Preserve02 · Understand03 · Check sources
A useful starting point
Begin with the record, not the conclusion
The TCPA is not a single rule against annoyance. The statute, FCC regulations, orders, and court decisions work together. Each guide names the authority level, current-through date, and facts that can change the answer.
Staging drafts
Review the source trail
Coverage map
Questions this section follows
- 01
Which TCPA provisions can apply to texts and calls?
- 02
What is an automatic telephone dialing system after Duguid?
- 03
When can prior express written consent matter?
- 04
How do company-specific and national do-not-call rules differ?
- 05
Why do jurisdiction and effective date matter?
How we read the issue
Three editorial principles
Primary text first
Start with the current statute and eCFR, then use orders and controlling cases for the proposition at issue.
One element at a time
Technology, message purpose, consent, sender, exemption, and timing should each be supported rather than bundled.
Current-through, not timeless
Rules and cases change. Every guide shows its update date and links back to official sources.