> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://answeringservicecare.com/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://answeringservicecare.com/docs/features/two-way-sms.md).

# Two-Way SMS

Two-Way SMS gives your clients another easy way to reach you, by text, right from your existing business call-forwarding number. Conversations stay centralized in your portal and separate from personal devices.

### What you can do

* **Text from your business number.** Send and receive messages on the number clients already know. All conversations are centralized.
* **Real two-way conversations.** Clients reply, and agents (or your team) respond in a threaded conversation.
* **Smart routing and coverage.** Route incoming texts to your portal inbox or to available agents based on your business hours.
* **Quick responses and greetings.** Save common replies so responses stay fast and on-brand, and set a branded greeting when a new conversation starts.

### Set your routing schedule

Under **SMS Settings → Routing**, choose how incoming texts are handled for each day and time frame.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Pick a day and time frame

Select a day, then set a **Start** and **End** time for the rule.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Choose where it routes

Set **Route To** for that window, to an available **Agent** or to your **Inbox**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add more windows

Add additional time frames per day so coverage matches your real schedule (for example, agents during business hours, inbox after hours).
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Quick responses and greetings

Save reusable replies your team can send in one click, and configure a greeting that introduces your company when a new conversation begins. Manage these under **SMS Settings → Configuration**.

### Pricing

The Starter plan is **$40/month** with a **$100 setup fee**. SMS is billed per part, each way:

| SMS part (each way) | Rate  |
| ------------------- | ----- |
| Live agent          | $0.50 |
| AI                  | $0.40 |
| Client              | $0.25 |

Higher-volume AI SMS bundles are available on request. Contact ASC sales for current rates, or see the live [pricing page](https://answeringservicecare.com/pricing).


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