Support & FAQ

How do I add emergency contacts?

In the app, go to the Contacts tab and tap "Add Contact". Enter their name and US/Canada phone number. The app will then open your phone's native SMS app with a pre-filled verification message for you to send directly from your number. RUOK does not send the verification SMS on your behalf — it comes from you, so your contact knows exactly who is adding them.

What happens if I miss a check-in?

Your designated emergency contacts receive an SMS alert with information about your timer (including the label you set and optionally your last known location). They can acknowledge the alert via a link in the SMS.

Is my location shared?

Only if you choose to include location when starting a timer or sending a panic alert. We never track your location continuously in the background. You have full control over when location is included.

How long can I set a timer for?

Timers can be set from 5 minutes up to 24 hours. You can extend a running timer at any time if you need more time.

What is a panic alert?

A panic alert immediately sends an SMS to all your contacts without waiting for a timer to expire. Use it when you feel unsafe and want to notify your contacts right away.

How many contacts can I add?

You can add up to 5 emergency contacts. Each contact must verify they consent to receiving alerts from you.

Why do contacts need to verify?

This ensures your contacts know they've been added and consent to receiving SMS alerts. It also verifies the phone number is correct before you need it.

Can my contacts opt out?

Yes. Contacts can reply STOP to any SMS to opt out of future alerts from you. You'll be notified if a contact opts out.

Is RUOK free?

RUOK offers a 30-day free trial with 1 contact, 2 alerts per month, and 1 panic alert per month. After your trial ends, you'll need to subscribe to a paid plan to continue creating timers, adding contacts, and sending alerts. You can still view your profile and history after the trial expires.

What is the refund policy?

You can request a full refund within 3 days of your first subscription purchase, provided you haven't added any contacts, used the panic button, or triggered any alerts. We do not offer pro-rated refunds. See our Refund Policy for full details.