Certain types of premium phone-paid services pose a greater risk of harm to users because of their content - examples include live chat, gambling and counselling. These types of services, and others listed below, can only be operated if PhonepayPlus has first provided written prior permission.
If the type of service you wish to operate is one of those listed please read all the information on this page and on the relevant link. If you're planning to operate a service that involves live conversation (for example, a customer helpline) first check here, as your service may be exempt from requiring prior permission.
If you then want to proceed with an application, contact our Industry Support Team on 0845 026 1060* or email compliance@phonepayplus.org.uk. Remember to quote the SPN number you received when you registered as a Service Provider.
Applying for prior permission costs £300 plus VAT. This charge covers the staff and Board costs of administrating the procedure. It is payable whether or not the application is successful.
You will be asked to provide details of how you intend to operate your service and for examples of how your service will be promoted - print or tv adverts, web pages, etc. You may also have to provide evidence of professional qualifications.
Our Code Compliance Panel will then review the application and decide whether permission should be granted and whether any special conditions should be applied to your service. If your application is successful you will be sent a permission certificate. Your network operator will need to see this certificate before activating your premium rate numbers.
Most applications take between four and eight weeks to process, although for some types of service, such as live entertainment, counseling and consumer credit, it may be longer. If we need further information from you at any point this may extend the processing time.
For further information see our helpnote for service providers requiring prior permission.
All these types of phone-paid services required prior permission to operate. Where relevant click for further information.
*(Calls provided by BT will be charged at up to 4 pence per minute at all times. A set-up fee of up to 6 pence per call applies to calls from residential lines. Mobile and other providers' charges may vary.)