How to Set Up a WhatsApp Business Account

What you need before starting

• A registered business (individual traders may also qualify — check current Meta requirements).
• A Facebook Business Manager account (verified).
• A phone number not already registered with WhatsApp (or one that can be migrated).
• Business display name that meets Meta's naming policy.

Key concepts

• WABA (WhatsApp Business Account): The Meta account your business messages are sent from. You own this account.
• Tech Provider / platform software: Software such as Ommly that helps a business use the WhatsApp Business Platform with its own WABA (BYO model). Ommly does not claim Meta partner or BSP status unless Meta has granted that status.
• Phone number: Each WABA can have one or more registered numbers. The number must pass verification.

Setup steps

1. Step 1. Create or verify your Facebook Business Manager account.
2. Step 2. Submit your business for Meta Business verification (required for higher messaging limits).
3. Step 3. Create a WhatsApp Business Account in Meta Business Manager.
4. Step 4. Add a phone number and complete the display name submission.
5. Step 5. Complete Ommly onboarding — we guide you through connecting your WABA to the Ommly platform.
6. Step 6. Set up message templates, team access and automation.

Common issues

• Phone number already registered: You can migrate an existing WhatsApp Business App number — you will lose existing chats.
• Display name rejection: Name must closely match your registered business name.
• Verification delays: Meta business verification timelines vary.