GoHighLevel WhatsApp setup, and the common errors
Short answer
WhatsApp in GoHighLevel is set up under Settings > WhatsApp in one of three ways: coexistence (keep using the WhatsApp Business App on the same number), a new number not active on WhatsApp, or migrating from another provider. You need a Meta business account; verification can take hours to about two weeks. Outside 24 hours from the customer's last message, only approved templates can be sent.
How to set it up
- Choose a path. Settings > WhatsApp: coexistence, a new account, or migration.
- Have a Meta business account. A Meta business account is needed; a Facebook page isn't.
- An existing number. Use coexistence, or remove the number from the WhatsApp app first. Outside coexistence a number is either on the app or the API, not both.
- Verify the number. By a code sent over SMS or a voice call.
- Get templates approved. If a template is rejected, read the reason, edit and resubmit. Approval takes minutes to about a day.
Common errors
- "WABA is already onboarded at this location". Disconnect it from the other location, then set it up again.
- "More than 24 hours have passed". The 24-hour window resets each time the customer messages. Outside it, send an approved template.
- A low message limit. HighLevel's FAQ says unverified businesses are limited to 250 business conversations in a rolling 24 hours.
Common questions
- What does WhatsApp cost?
- HighLevel charges a subscription per WhatsApp sub-account, and Meta charges per message by category and country. Both guides are linked below.
- Do I need to move marketing messages?
- Yes, by October 13, 2027: Meta will stop delivering WhatsApp marketing messages through the Cloud API, and HighLevel's MM Lite switch moves them.
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