WhatsApp troubleshooting

Common errors and what to do about them.

4 min read Updated 2026-04-24

Template approval rejected

  • Promotional content in a Utility category — re-submit as Marketing.
  • Variables in a place Meta doesn’t allow (URL placeholders, currency symbols at the start).
  • URL in a non-button position for certain verticals.
  • Language mismatch between template text and declared language code.

Messages sending but not delivering

  • Recipient has not opted in — WhatsApp requires explicit opt-in for business messaging.
  • Recipient has WhatsApp but phone offline — will deliver when back online.
  • Quality rating "Red" — Meta is throttling your sender. Reduce volume and clean your list.