# Pre-requisites

## Verified Facebook Business Manager

Your business must have a Meta Business Manager account. Verification is mandatory to gain **full access to the WhatsApp Business API.**

Read more here: [Meta Business Manager Verification](/overview/messaging-channels/whatsapp/setup-whatsapp/fbm-verification.md)

## Phone Number

Your Business must have an eligible phone number. Before setting up WhatsApp Business API, ensure you meet the following requirements:

* Able to receive an **OTP via SMS/ Phone Call**
* The number used for the WhatsApp API **must not be linked to an existing WhatsApp account**
* It cannot be used in the regular **WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business App**.

### Disconnect Phone Number <a href="#disconnect-phone-number" id="disconnect-phone-number"></a>

{% hint style="warning" %}

1. If phone is connected to WhatsApp API: 2FA needs to be disabled from the previous Vendor's end
2. If phone is connected to WhatsApp Business / WhatsApp Messenger: The Account needs to be deleted
   * All chat history and contact data from the WhatsApp Business / WhatsApp Messenger **will be erased.** Please reach out to us at **<help@quickreply.ai>** for more clarity and **seek help in the retention of your data**
   * The number once connected to WhatsApp Business API:
     * **Cannot be reverted** to standard WhatsApp Business or the WhatsApp Messenger used on mobile devices
     * Access to the number will be **exclusively through the QuickReply.ai** dashboard.
       {% endhint %}

### Key Requirements:

* **Number Ownership:** The phone number must be legally under your control - either owned by your business or authorized for business use.
* **Number Format:** The number must follow the international format, including the country and area codes. For example, a U.S. number with area code "408" and number "555-1212" should be entered as "+1-408-555-1212".
* **Number Availability:** If the number is from another provider or isn't listed in the BSP-provided numbers, it must be able to receive calls or SMS messages for verification.
* **Number Cleanliness:** The number should not be currently used on any WhatsApp account (personal, Business App). If it were, [you must delete the existing WhatsApp account](https://app.gitbook.com/o/uM0hInnriptBQczOFtyU/s/ePPO97Ju334NhhCzTEZP/~/edit/~/changes/301/overview/publish-your-docs-1/whatsapp/prerequisites-and-setup/pre-requisites#phone-number-deletion) before registering for it.

### Supported Number Types:

* **Landline numbers** – Fixed-line numbers are commonly used by businesses.
* **Mobile numbers** – Standard mobile numbers capable of receiving SMS messages.
* **Virtual Mobile Numbers (VMNs)** – Voice-capable numbers without a physical SIM card, purchasable from providers like MessageBird. Verification codes are sent via voice call.

### **Not Supported:**

* Shortcodes
* Numbers with IVR (automated call menu), unless IVR can be disabled for verification.

## **Compliance with WhatsApp’s Policies**

WhatsApp Business Services (as defined in the [WhatsApp Business Terms](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/business-terms) of Service), enable rich, conversational experiences between businesses and WhatsApp users. Creating valuable experiences for users relies on the compliance of businesses with the WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy below. By using our products, businesses agree to the WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy, [WhatsApp Messaging Guidelines](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/messaging-guidelines) and the [WhatsApp Business Terms of Service](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/business-terms).

You must ensure that your business adheres to:

1. [WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy](https://business.whatsapp.com/policy)
2. [WhatsApp Messaging Guidelines](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/messaging-guidelines)
3. [WhatsApp Business Terms of Service](https://www.whatsapp.com/legal/business-terms)
4. [Meta Commerce Policy](https://www.facebook.com/policies_center/commerce)


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