How to Get Your WhatsApp Business Display Name Approved: A Complete Guide

If you want your business to stand out on WhatsApp Business, choosing the right display name is crucial. This guide explains how to choose an approved display name, the review process, and best practices for success.

What is a WhatsApp Business Display Name?

Your WhatsApp Business display name is the name visible to customers on your WhatsApp profile. It appears in chats, groups, and contact lists. When you add a phone number to your account via the Meta Business Manager, this name is assigned to your business profile. This display name must align with WhatsApp’s policies to maintain professionalism and ensure proper communication with customers.

WhatsApp Business Display Name Guidelines

Follow these key guidelines to ensure your display name meets WhatsApp’s standards:

Dos:

• Be Specific & Accurate: Your name must clearly represent your business, product, service, or department. Avoid using generic terms like “Software” or geographic names unless they are part of your legal business name.
• Consistency with External Branding: Your display name should align with your business’s legal name or external branding. If applicable, indicate a clear connection like “by [Business Name].”
• Include Test Accounts or Departments: If using WhatsApp for specific departments or test/demo accounts, include those details in the display name (e.g., “Marketing – [Business Name]” or “Demo – [Business Name]”).
• Follow WhatsApp’s Formatting Guidelines: The name must contain more than three characters, and it shouldn’t be a URL or email. Symbols and special characters like “@” or “!” are also not allowed unless part of your business’s legal name.
• Indicate Official Business Account Status: For notable businesses, ensure the display name is tied to your business’s identity. If your business is a subsidiary, indicate this connection (e.g., “Business Name by Parent Name”).
• Check the Review Process: Make sure you’re prepared for WhatsApp’s review process and that you have all required details for verification.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Misleading Names: Do not include terms like “Official,” “Verified,” or any Meta-related references, as this can confuse customers.
• No Personal Names Alone: Do not use personal names unless they clearly reflect the business. For example, “John’s Bakery” is acceptable, but “John” alone is not.
• No Generic Terms: Avoid vague names like “Tech Solutions” or “Ice Cream Shop” unless they reflect your official business name.
• Do Not Use Symbols or Emojis: These can make your name look unprofessional or confusing. Stick to alphanumeric characters unless special symbols are part of your legal brand name.
• Refrain from Changing Display Names Frequently: While you can update your display name up to 10 times in 30 days, frequent changes may hinder your account approval process.

WhatsApp Display Name Review Process

1. Initial Review: After setting your display name, WhatsApp will review it for compliance with their policies. If approved, your business will receive a certificate for its display name. This review is typically triggered once your business qualifies for higher messaging limits.
2. Notification of Approval: You will receive a notification once your display name is approved, along with instructions on downloading the certificate. Note that this certificate is only valid for 14 days, so act promptly to avoid the need for re-approval.
3. Subsequent Changes: If you change your display name after the review, the new name will need to be reviewed and approved before it can be used. If your display name does not meet WhatsApp’s guidelines, you will be asked to submit a new one for consideration.

How to Change Your WhatsApp Business Display Name

To update your display name:

1. Go to WhatsApp Business Manager and select your business.
2. Navigate to WhatsApp Manager and choose the account.
3. Click Phone Numbers and hover over the current display name.
4. Select the pencil icon to edit the name.
5. Enter the new name and submit for approval.

Tips for a Successful Display Name Approval

• Keep it Specific: A clear, business-related display name will enhance trust and help customers identify your brand.
• Plan for Growth: Choose a display name that allows for future expansion in case your business diversifies.
• Stay Professional: Keep your display name simple and professional, avoiding unnecessary words, symbols, or references to unrelated entities.
• Be Transparent: Ensure your name doesn’t mislead customers regarding the nature of your business or services.

Your WhatsApp Business display name is more than just a label—it’s a key element of your branding strategy. By following WhatsApp’s guidelines and submitting a professional, accurate name, you increase the chances of getting approved and connecting with your customers effectively.