How long are my WhatsApp messages free after a customer contacts me from a click-to-WhatsApp ad?
Updated 16 October 2026
Up to 7 days. Meta changed the free window from 72 hours to 7 days on 28 September 2026, for chats that start from an ad that clicks to WhatsApp.
- The window opens when you reply inside the customer service window.
- While it is open, you can send any type of message to that customer at no charge.
- It counts only when the customer taps the ad on the WhatsApp app for Android or iPhone, not on desktop or web.
- Older blogs still say 72 hours. Meta's pricing page now says up to 7 days.
Turn ad chats into orders quickly
Customers who message you on WhatsApp get a Hi, then an Order Now button that opens your menu already signed in, so the free window goes on taking the order.
Next questions
Sources (1)
- Meta for Developers source, Meta for Developers, read 15 October 2026