Write & submit a WhatsApp template

Every message you start needs a Meta-approved template. Here's how to write one that gets approved.

1
Why templates exist
WhatsApp only lets you start a conversation — or reply after the 24-hour window closed — with copy Meta reviewed in advance. Replies inside the window need no template.
2
Start from a ready-made template
Templates → «Ready-made templates» gives you order updates, cart reminders and offers already written to pass review. Edit the wording to sound like your store.
3
Or write your own
«New template» → give it a name, a language and a category: Utility for order and account updates, Marketing for offers and campaigns, Authentication for codes. The category decides how Meta prices and reviews it, so pick honestly.
4
Use variables and add buttons
Write {{1}}, {{2}} where the name, order number or amount should go, and give each one a sample value — Meta rejects templates without samples. You can add up to 3 buttons: quick reply, a link, or a call button.
5
Submit and watch the status
Submit it and Meta reviews it — usually minutes, sometimes longer. Use «Refresh status» on the Templates page to see approved or rejected. Only approved templates show up when you build a campaign.
6
Adding a discount code
Create a fixed coupon in your store dashboard, then type the code straight into the template body before submitting — e.g. «Use code SAVE10». It becomes part of the approved copy and goes out to everyone as-is; no extra variable needed.

Every message you start needs a Meta-approved template. Here's how to write one that gets approved.

Why templates exist

WhatsApp only lets you start a conversation — or reply after the 24-hour window closed — with copy Meta reviewed in advance. Replies inside the window need no template.

Start from a ready-made template

Templates → «Ready-made templates» gives you order updates, cart reminders and offers already written to pass review. Edit the wording to sound like your store.

Or write your own

«New template» → give it a name, a language and a category: Utility for order and account updates, Marketing for offers and campaigns, Authentication for codes. The category decides how Meta prices and reviews it, so pick honestly.

Use variables and add buttons

Write {{1}}, {{2}} where the name, order number or amount should go, and give each one a sample value — Meta rejects templates without samples. You can add up to 3 buttons: quick reply, a link, or a call button.

Submit and watch the status

Submit it and Meta reviews it — usually minutes, sometimes longer. Use «Refresh status» on the Templates page to see approved or rejected. Only approved templates show up when you build a campaign.

Adding a discount code

Create a fixed coupon in your store dashboard, then type the code straight into the template body before submitting — e.g. «Use code SAVE10». It becomes part of the approved copy and goes out to everyone as-is; no extra variable needed.