Free WhatsApp Template Checker
Meta rejects templates for dozens of reasons: broken variables, promotional words in utility templates, URL shorteners, missing opt-outs. Paste your template below and catch the problems before Meta does.
Use numbered variables like {{1}}, {{2}} - exactly as you would submit to Meta.
This checker covers the most common rejection rules. Inside VGraple CRM, the template editor validates as you type, predicts the right category, submits to Meta in one click, and shows the exact rejection reason with a fix if Meta still says no.
See the Template Manager →How to use the template checker
- Paste the template body (and header, footer and buttons if you have them) exactly as you will submit it.
- Choose the category you intend: marketing, utility or authentication.
- Read each flagged rule, fix the text, and re-check until the list is clear; then submit in your WhatsApp platform.
What each rule checks and why Meta rejects it
| Rule | What it catches | Meta's reason |
|---|---|---|
| Variable placement | A variable at the very start or end, two variables next to each other, or a line that is only a variable | Open-ended templates can carry any content; Meta rejects them as abusable |
| Variable numbering | Gaps or repeats in {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}} | Malformed variables fail validation before review |
| Sample values | Missing examples for variables | Reviewers need a sample to judge the category |
| URLs in the body | Links typed into the text instead of a URL button | Body links are a rejection risk; buttons carry them |
| Promotional wording in utility | Offers, codes, "shop more", "we miss you" in a utility template | Content decides category; this gets rejected or recategorised to marketing |
| Opt-out on marketing | No STOP line or opt-out button on a marketing template | Not always a rejection, but a block magnet Meta expects you to avoid |
| Length and formatting | Body over 1,024 characters, header over 60, buttons over 25, tabs, excessive emojis and capitals | Hard limits and formatting rules |
| Button counts | More than the allowed quick replies or URL, phone and copy-code buttons | Component limits |
| Authentication format | Free text in an authentication template | Authentication templates use Meta's fixed wording |
| Prohibited content | Words that read as gambling, adult, weapons, or misleading claims | Commerce and business policies |
Common mistakes
- "Hi {{1}}, {{2}}" as the whole message; say what the message is about in fixed words.
- A discount code inside an order update; split it into two templates.
- Submitting the same text under a new name after a rejection; change the content.
- Forgetting that samples are reviewed too; a sample that looks promotional sinks a utility template.
- Editing an approved template too often in a day; Meta limits edits.
What happens after approval
An approved template is the only way to start a conversation or message outside the 24-hour window, billed per delivered message by category at Meta's rates (India rates). In VGraple CRM the template builder runs these checks before submission, tracks approval, quality and pauses, and the broadcast engine holds sends when Meta pauses a template so nothing is wasted. The rejection guide covers every reason code with fixes.
Frequently asked questions
Why do WhatsApp templates get rejected?
The most frequent reasons: promotional content in a Utility template, malformed or non-sequential variables, variables at the very start or end of the body, URL shorteners like bit.ly, missing opt-out language in Marketing templates, vague placeholder text, and content that violates WhatsApp commerce policy.
What is the difference between Marketing, Utility, and Authentication?
Utility templates relate to an agreed transaction: order updates, appointment reminders, account alerts. Marketing covers promotions, offers, and re-engagement. Authentication is only for one-time passcodes. Meta charges different rates per category and recategorizes or rejects miscategorized templates.
Does this tool guarantee my template will be approved?
No tool can guarantee approval - Meta's review includes human and policy checks beyond formatting. This checker catches the mechanical and content-pattern issues that cause the majority of rejections, which significantly improves your odds.
Why are variables at the start or end of a message a problem?
Meta rejects templates that begin or end with a variable because they are easily abused for spam. Always anchor variables with real text around them, for example: "Hi {{1}}, your order is ready." rather than "{{1}} your order is ready".
How long can a template be?
Body text up to 1,024 characters, header up to 60 characters, footer up to 60 characters. Headers cannot contain new lines and support at most one variable.
Does passing the checker guarantee approval?
No. It catches the mechanical and wording problems behind most rejections; Meta's reviewers make the final call, including on category.
Why was my utility template approved as marketing?
The content or the sample read as promotional. Remove offers, codes and cross-sell lines and resubmit as a new template.
How long does approval take?
Minutes for most templates, up to 24 hours for some, longer for manual review.
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