WhatsApp template checker.
Paste a draft template and check it against Meta’s published rules before you submit it: variables, length and buttons, and whether Meta is likely to treat it as utility or marketing.
Checker
Today
The checker needs JavaScript. Meta’s rules it applies are listed below.
₹0.1150
per message in India
Checks Meta’s published rules; Meta’s own review makes the final call. Your text stays in your browser.
Utility or marketing?
Utility templates cost less and are free inside the 24-hour customer service window. Meta keeps them for messages that follow up on something a customer did or asked for, with nothing promotional in them.
-
Utility
Your order {{1}} is confirmed. We’ll message you when it ships.
Marketing
Your order {{1}} is confirmed. Use code SAVE10 for 10% off your next order.
One offer turns an order update into mixed content, and Meta treats mixed content as marketing.
-
Utility
Reminder: your payment for {{1}} is due on {{2}}.
Marketing
Your plan ends on {{1}}. Renew today to save {{2}}.
A bill reminder is an account update. Asking someone to renew for a saving is retargeting.
-
Utility
We’ve delivered order {{1}}. If anything’s wrong, reply here and we’ll sort it.
Marketing
How did we do? Rate us out of 5.
Feedback stays utility only when it’s about a specific order or visit.
-
Utility
Your table for {{1}} is booked for {{2}}.
Marketing
Happy Diwali, {{1}}! Celebrate with us this weekend.
Greetings, festival messages included, are marketing in Meta’s own examples.
What the checker looks at.
Meta’s documented rules fail a draft. Rules Meta describes without a number, or that only providers report, give a warning.
| Rule | Checker | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Name: lowercase letters, numbers and underscores; up to 512 characters | Fails | Meta |
| Body: required, up to 1,024 characters | Fails | Meta |
| Header and footer: up to 60 characters each; header text takes one variable and no formatting | Fails | Meta |
| Variables written {{1}}, {{2}}… in order, with no gaps | Fails | Meta |
| Body can’t start or end with a variable | Fails | Meta |
| Every variable needs a sample value, without #, $ or % | Fails | Meta |
| Up to 10 buttons; quick replies grouped together; 2 link buttons, 1 phone button; labels up to 25 characters | Fails | Meta |
| One-time passcodes only in authentication templates, with no links, media or emojis | Fails | Meta |
| No asking for full card or bank numbers, or ID numbers such as Aadhaar or PAN | Fails | Meta |
| No threats, such as legal action or public shaming | Warns | Meta |
| Too many variables for a short message | Warns | Meta |
| Two variables side by side, more than two blank lines, four or more spaces in a row | Warns: reported by providers, not documented by Meta | Providers |
| Offers, discounts or calls to buy inside a utility template | Warns: Meta treats mixed content as marketing | Meta |
| Generic feedback requests and festival greetings | Warns: Meta lists them as marketing | Meta |
From Meta’s WhatsApp template documentation, checked 15 October 2026.
Before you submit.
What the checker can and can’t tell you.
If my template passes, will Meta approve it?
Not necessarily. The checker tests the rules Meta publishes. Meta’s review also looks at things no checker can see, such as whether you already have a template with the same wording, and it makes the final call.
Why did Meta approve my utility template as marketing?
Since 9 April 2025, Meta approves a template as marketing at creation if it judges the content to be marketing, even when you chose utility. Any offer, discount or call to buy inside an update is the usual cause.
Can I appeal a category change?
Yes. Meta lets you appeal a category change through Business Support within 60 days.
How long does Meta’s review take?
Review is automatic. Meta says a template can stay in review for up to 24 hours.
Can I write my own OTP message?
No. One-time passcodes must go in an authentication template, which uses Meta’s preset wording with a copy-code or one-tap button. Links, media and emojis aren’t allowed.
Is my template sent anywhere?
No. The checks run in your browser, and nothing you type is sent to WaSparks.
Rather not write it yourself?
Flint drafts templates, quick replies and product copy in WaSparks, free on every plan. Try it free for 30 days.