Find out what Premium TXT services are, how charges work, how to stop them, and what to do if you have a problem with a service.
What is a Premium TXT?
A Premium TXT is a message or mobile service provided by a third party rather than One NZ.
Premium TXT services can include things such as:
- voting on TV shows
- entering competitions
- receiving information or alerts
- purchasing mobile content such as music, videos or ringtones.
These services are often accessed using a short code, which is usually a 3, 4 or 5-digit number. Some services may also use a standard-length mobile number.
How much do Premium TXTs cost?
The cost varies depending on the service and can generally range from 20 cents to $10.
Depending on the service, you may be charged:
- when you send a TXT
- when you receive a TXT
- for both sending and receiving TXTs.
You should be told about the cost before you use or subscribe to a Premium TXT service.
For subscription services, the first free welcome message should include the price and how often you’ll receive messages.
A list of Premium TXT suppliers, costs and their codes (PDF)
How do I pay for Premium TXT services?
Charges for Premium TXT services are added to your mobile account where applicable.
This means your mobile connection is used as the payment method for the third-party service.
Who provides Premium TXT services?
Premium TXT services are provided by third-party content providers and service partners.
They create and manage the service and may arrange for it to be delivered over the One NZ mobile network and charged to your account.
One NZ does not create or operate these third-party services.
How do I stop receiving Premium TXTs?
One NZ can’t cancel a third-party Premium TXT subscription on your behalf.
To stop a service:
- Reply STOP to the short code the Premium TXT is coming from.
- You should receive a free TXT confirming that you’ve been unsubscribed.
You can also contact the third-party service provider directly to cancel your subscription.
What if I don't know who the Premium TXT provider is?
Check the Premium TXT provider list to identify the provider using the short code or number shown in the message.
The provider list also includes contact details you can use if you need help cancelling a service.
What if I paid for content but didn't receive it?
Contact the Premium TXT service provider directly.
The provider is responsible for supplying the content or service you purchased. You can use the Premium TXT provider list to identify and contact them.
What if I have concerns about a Premium TXT service?
Premium TXT providers must follow rules covering areas such as pricing, advertising and how services are promoted.
You can find the specific rules that relate to the advertising of Premium TXT services outlines in Section 7- Advertising & Promotion of Premium Messaging Services of the TCF Mobile Premium Messaging Services Code.
If you have concerns about a service, contact the relevant Premium TXT provider in the first instance.