How to Set Up WhatsApp Business API and Verify Your Business Manager

In today’s competitive digital landscape, businesses are always looking for effective ways to engage with their customers. One of the most powerful tools for this is WhatsApp Business API, which allows businesses to communicate with customers efficiently. This article will guide you through the process of setting up the WhatsApp Business API, verifying your business manager, and sending unlimited messages to your audience.

Step 1: Prepare for WhatsApp Web Setup

Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s essential to have WhatsApp Web ready. Whether you’re setting it up for the first time or using a new phone number for business purposes, being prepared is crucial.

• New Phone Number: Start by acquiring a new number that will be used for your WhatsApp Business account. This will help separate your personal communications from business interactions.
• Limitations for Non-Verified Business Managers: If your WhatsApp Business Manager account is not verified, there are restrictions in place. You will only be able to send messages to 250 unique users in a 24-hour period. However, once verified, you can send unlimited messages, making verification a priority.

To get started with WhatsApp Business API setup, visit WhatsApp Business to understand more about their offerings.

Step 2: Set Up a Business Email

To proceed with WhatsApp API integration, having a business email is mandatory. A business email, such as yourname@yourcompany.com, conveys professionalism and helps with credibility during the verification process.

• Make sure your business email aligns with your brand or company domain. This helps during the verification phase, as it reinforces the legitimacy of your business.

Step 3: Register with a Business Service Provider (BSP)

WhatsApp Business API setup involves partnering with a Business Service Provider (BSP). BSPs manage essential elements like the API’s infrastructure, sending and receiving messages, and scaling the communication channels.

One reliable BSP for managing your WhatsApp API is AiSensy. You can explore more about their services here.

• API Charges: The WhatsApp API itself is free to procure, but there are costs associated with different types of messages you send. Pricing is usually categorized based on the type of conversation:
• Marketing Conversations: Messages designed for promotions.
• Utility Conversations: Customer service or transactional messages.
• Authentication Messages: Messages for two-factor authentication.
• Service Conversations: Support or service-related communications.

Each type has a different pricing model, so understanding what messages you’ll send will help in planning the budget.

Step 4: Sign Up for WhatsApp API

Next, you’ll need to sign up for the WhatsApp API. Follow these steps to get started:

• Visit the WhatsApp Business website or use a link provided by your BSP.
• Start the 14-day free trial to familiarize yourself with the platform.
• Enter your company details, including name, industry, phone number, currency, and time zone.
• Once the registration is complete, you will be redirected to finalize the application process for the API.

You can also start the sign-up process directly on WhatsApp’s official page here.

Step 5: Verify Your Business Manager

Verification of your Business Manager is essential for sending unlimited messages and building customer trust. A verified business manager streamlines the entire process by automatically fetching your company’s information—such as your business name and website—during setup.

• Non-Verified Business Manager: If your business manager is not verified, you will have to manually input all relevant business information like your website, business name, and more. However, if you prefer, you can use a non-verified business manager initially and complete the verification later.

Step 6: Complete the WhatsApp Business API Setup

After verification, here’s how to finalize the setup:

• Select the correct time zone and business category. For example, if you’re in the education industry, choose that option.
• Enter the phone number associated with your WhatsApp Business account. This number will receive the verification code either via SMS or a phone call.
• Input the verification code when prompted to complete the verification process.

Once the verification is done, your account will be live, and you can start utilizing the WhatsApp Business API for customer communications.

Step 7: Troubleshooting and Support

If you face any challenges during the setup or verification process, there are multiple ways to resolve them:

• Reach out to WhatsApp support or your BSP’s customer service team. They will help troubleshoot any issues you’re encountering, whether related to verification, upgrading your plan, or integrating additional tools.

Final Thoughts

Setting up the WhatsApp Business API might seem complex at first, but with the right guidance and preparation, it’s a seamless process. A verified business manager allows for greater communication flexibility, while a good understanding of pricing ensures you can plan for the costs of your messaging strategy.