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Why is my WhatsApp message not send?

There can be several reasons as to why a WhatsApp message can't be sent. This article explains them.

There can be several reasons why a WhatsApp message is not sent through the WhatsApp Business API. This article explains the most common causes and how to solve them.

Possible reasons:

  • The recipient’s phone number is not registered with WhatsApp.

  • The recipient has not accepted the latest WhatsApp Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. These can be accepted directly within the WhatsApp app (via Settings → Help or Settings → Application Information).

  • The recipient is using an outdated version of WhatsApp. The minimum versions required are:

    • Android: 2.21.15.15

    • SMBA: 2.21.15.15

    • iOS: 2.21.170.4

    • SMBI: 2.21.170.4

    • KaiOS: 2.2130.10

    • Web: 2.2132.6

  • The recipient has blocked your business number.

  • The recipient has been offline for more than 30 days.

  • WhatsApp has temporarily restricted message delivery due to exceeding frequency limits (for example, sending too many marketing messages in a short time).

  • The recipient is in a country where WhatsApp Business API messages are restricted.

How to resolve:

  1. Confirm that the phone number is active on WhatsApp.

  2. Ask the recipient to accept the latest Terms within their app settings.

  3. Make sure the recipient updates to the latest version of WhatsApp.

  4. Have the recipient send a message to your WhatsApp Business number to re-open the 24-hour reply window.

  5. If the issue continues, check if the recipient has blocked your number, has been offline for an extended time, or is in a restricted country.