When you start on the WhatsApp Business API, your display name — the business name customers see on every message — is reviewed by Meta. A rejected name delays your launch. Here are the simple rules that get most names approved the first time.
1. It must match your real business
The name should be your actual business or brand name, the same one on your website, shop board or invoices. Meta checks that there is a clear link between the name and your business.
Good: Sharma Sarees, Glow Salon Indore, CityCare Clinic.
2. Avoid generic words on their own
Names like "Sarees", "Sweets", "Customer Support" or "Sales Team" are usually rejected. Add your brand: "Sharma Sarees", not "Sarees".
3. No place name alone
"Indore" or "India" alone will not pass. A place is fine as part of the name — "Glow Salon Indore" — if it helps identify your branch.
4. No slogans or long descriptions
"Best Sarees at Lowest Prices" or "Your Trusted Partner" are slogans, not names. Keep the name short — ideally under 25 characters so it shows fully on phones.
5. No WhatsApp, Meta, Facebook or Instagram
Do not use "WhatsApp", "WA", "Meta", "Facebook", "FB", "Instagram" or "Insta" in the name.
6. No URLs or domains
Leave out ".com", ".in" and web addresses. "Sharma Sarees" — not "sharmasarees.com".
7. Correct capitals
Use normal capitals: "Glow Salon". Avoid ALL CAPS unless your name is an acronym like "ABC Traders".
8. No promotional words
Words like "Official", "Best", "Free", "No. 1" or "24x7" often cause rejection.
9. Show proof on your website
Make sure your website, Google Business Profile or social pages use the same name. Meta may look for it. A business with a website and matching name is approved more easily.
If your name is rejected
- Read the reason given.
- Fix the name to match your website or invoices exactly.
- Remove generic or promotional words.
- Resubmit.
Display name vs green tick
An approved display name is not the same as the green tick (Official Business Account). The green tick is a separate review by Meta with its own criteria. We help you apply, but Meta decides.
When you sign up with us, we help you pick a display name that fits Meta's rules and submit it during setup. See how to get the WhatsApp Business API or green tick verification.
Sources: Meta display name guidelines as summarised by 2026 WhatsApp Business API guides.
FAQs
Why was my WhatsApp display name rejected?
Common reasons are generic words, a place name alone, slogans, promotional words, ALL CAPS, URLs, or a name that does not match your business.
Can I use my city in the display name?
Yes, as part of your brand name, like "Glow Salon Indore" — but not a place name alone.
Can I use the word WhatsApp in my business name?
No. Names with WhatsApp, Meta, Facebook or Instagram are not allowed.
Is an approved display name the same as the green tick?
No. The green tick is a separate Meta review. An approved name only means your business name is shown on messages.
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