# WABA Prerequisites

A WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) lets your business use the WhatsApp Business Platform to communicate directly with your customers. You need to meet the following requirements to access the API.

#### **Phone Number:** <a href="#phone-number" id="phone-number"></a>

To start using the WhatsApp Business API, you will need the following:

* A valid phone number - The number must be able to receive an International Phone Call or SMS during the registration process. You must own the phone number.
* A referral link to a signup form (supplied by your Software Partner or Channel360 directly)
* A callback server (typically provided by your Software Partner)

Take a look at the following link which provides the requirements [Meta](https://developers.facebook.com/docs/whatsapp/on-premises/phone-numbers/#requirements) has to valid phone numbers.

We do not provide or lease phone numbers for general use. Phone numbers are only provided for specific Enterprise Use-Cases.

#### Switching to WhatsApp Business API:

If your brand currently uses WhatsApp/Business App with your phone number, you'll need to follow these simple steps (**3 minutes max**) to delete your current account. Afterward, you can seamlessly connect the number with WhatsApp Business API.

{% hint style="warning" %}
A phone number can't be simultaneously used with WhatsApp/Business App and WhatsApp Business API due to Meta's limitation.
{% endhint %}

If you wish to retain your chat history, remember to save it before connecting your number to the API.

#### **Meta Business Manager Account:** <a href="#meta-business-manager-account" id="meta-business-manager-account"></a>

You can use an existing Meta Business Manager Account or you can create a new one during the Embedded Signup process. To find your **Business ID,** login to **Meta Business Manager** and navigate to **Business Settings**. The Business Manager ID is displayed under the business name.

#### Meta Business Manager: Verification & Limitations:

The Meta Business Manager does not need to be verified anymore in order to connect a phone number with WhatsApp Business API.&#x20;

Have a look at the unverified account limitations and verified account benefits:&#x20;

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Unverified Account Limitations:" %}

* Inability to request for an official business account.
* Permits registration of a maximum of 2 phone numbers, which can be assigned to either 1 WABA or split between 2 WABAs.
* Has a notification cap of 250 unique customers within a rolling 24-hour period.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Verified Account Benefits:" %}

* The [display name](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/338047025165344) is visible to end-users, enhancing brand recognition.
* Have no notification limit, enabling broader customer outreach.
* Can register multiple phone numbers and assign them to multiple WABAs, providing flexibility in communication channels.
* Eligible to request an official business account, which enhances credibility and unlocks additional features and support from Meta.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

**WhatsApp Business Compliance:**

Your Business must not violate the [WhatsApp Business Policy](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/business-policy/). If you are discussing, offering, or completing sales of goods or services, including sending messages in connection with such offers or sales, you must also comply with the [Commerce Policy](https://business.whatsapp.com/policy#policies_for_whatsapp_commerce_features).


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