What are click-to-WhatsApp ads, and are the chats free?
Updated 30 September 2026
They are Facebook or Instagram ads with a Send message button that opens a WhatsApp chat with you. If you reply within 24 hours, messages in that chat are free for up to 7 days.
- The ad works with the WhatsApp Business app or the API. Your WhatsApp number must be connected to your Facebook Page or business portfolio.
- The free window opens when a customer messages from the ad on the Android or iOS app and you reply within 24 hours.
- Inside the window any type of message is free, for up to 7 days. Before 28 September 2026 the window was 72 hours.
- The free window stays in place after the 1 October 2026 price changes.
Give new WhatsApp chats an easy order button
When a customer sends “Hi” to your number, Menuthere replies with an Order Now button that opens your menu already signed in, however they found your number.
Next questions
Sources (4)
- Pricing on the WhatsApp Business Platform, Meta for Developers, updated 28 September 2026
- Pricing for non-template messages, Meta for Developers, updated 28 September 2026
- WhatsApp Business Platform changelog, Meta for Developers, entry of 28 September 2026
- About ads that click to WhatsApp, Meta Business Help Center, read 30 September 2026