NOTE: Verified Caller IDs cannot be used as the display name on outgoing SMS or MMS message. Verified Caller IDs are intended to be used with voice services only.
While a verified phone number can be used as a Caller ID for outbound calls, you will not be able to receive inbound calls over this number. If you would like to receive incoming calls, you may be able to forward your calls to another phone number.
To activate the Caller ID feature for your account, you can contact our support team via chat through the TALK TO SUPPORT button.
Please note that using Verified Caller IDs as the display name for outgoing SMS or MMS messages is not allowed. These IDs are specially designed for use with voice services exclusively.
Outbound Caller ID
Caller ID Options Available for Outbound Calls
Caller ID determines what your customers see when you place an outbound call. Depending on your setup, carrier support, and phone type, different caller ID options may be available through Twilio.
Below is an overview of the three caller ID options currently supported.
CNAM (Caller Name / Display Name)
CNAM is the traditional caller ID option.
With CNAM, you define a text-based display name (up to 15 characters) that appears on the recipient’s phone when you call.
Key details:
Displays a plain text business name only
Example:
ABC ROOFING,JOES PLUMBINGThe display name is reviewed and approved for relevance and appropriateness
Supported by most carriers, though display behavior may vary
Updates may take time to propagate across carrier networks
Best for:
Basic caller identification when you want your calls to show a recognizable business name instead of a phone number.
Branded Calling
Branded Calling is an enhanced caller ID experience designed to increase trust and answer rates.
Depending on the carrier and device, recipients may see additional branding elements when you call.
Key details:
May display your business name, logo, and call labels such as Verified Business
Provides higher visual credibility than standard caller ID
Requires additional setup and carrier approval
Requires Branded Logo URL
Requires a signed Letter of Authorization (LOA) for Outbound Caller ID
Involves an additional cost, which varies based on call volume
Availability varies by carrier and smartphone model
Best for:
Businesses that rely heavily on outbound calling and want higher engagement, visibility, and call trust.
SHAKEN/STIR Trusted Calling
SHAKEN/STIR is a cost-free caller authentication framework that helps reduce spoofing and increases call trust.
All outbound calls from eligible U.S. phone numbers associated with a Twilio Approved Business Profile automatically receive A-level attestation.
Key details:
Verifies that the call is legit and not spoofed
On supported smartphones, recipients may see “Caller Verified”
Does not display a business name or logo
Enabled automatically for eligible numbers
No additional cost
Best for:
Improving answer rates and call credibility.
Option | What the Customer Sees | Cost | Best Use Case |
CNAM | Text-based business name | Free | Basic caller identification |
Branded Calling | Business name, logo, verification (where supported) | Higher | Maximum trust and engagement |
SHAKEN/STIR | “Caller Verified” (supported devices only) | Free | Call authentication and trust |