Telemarketing Fines

Avoid telemarketing fines by first understanding them.  Regulators can impose fines on a per call (or per-violation) basis.  Meaning, even a short, small campaign can generate significant exposure quickly if there is a compliance failure regarding the line called, the technology/dialer used, the disclosures provided to the consumer, etc.

Telemarketing fines are imposed by both state and federal regulators.  Federal telemarketing fines are usually levied by the FCC, FTC or U.S. Attorney's office.  Private consumers can also sue for damages under the federal TCPA.  State telemarketing fines are normally imposed by state Divisions of Consumer Protection or state Attorney General offices.

Telemarketing fines can range from a few hundred dollars per violation up into the millions.  Strict, informed telemarketing compliance is key to avoiding such fines  Obtaining necessary telemarketing licenses, compliant autodialer technology and scripting is also key.

Note that in addition to monetary telemarketing fines, state and federal agencies can also obtain injunctions shutting a business down temporarily or forever.  In some cases, federal telemarketing regulators will also bring criminal charges if there is a significant fraud component to the telemarketing violations.  Fine amounts do change frequently; this site is intended as a push in the right direction.  Consult with a telemarketing lawyer about all compliance decisions.  An experienced telemarketing attorney can help you avoid telemarketing fines.