Managing Your WhatsApp Business Display Name

About the WhatsApp Business Display Name

Your WhatsApp Business display name is the official identifier that customers see when they receive messages from your business. To ensure a smooth update process and avoid having your request declined, it is essential to follow the correct Meta workflow. This guide outlines the prerequisites, the step-by-step process, and best practices for successfully changing your display name.

Before You Begin

Before you can change your display name, ensure your business meets the following requirements:

• A business portfolio must be created.
• You must have signed up for the WhatsApp Business Platform, either by creating an account through a Business Solution Provider (BSP) or by setting up an account as a BSP.
• A phone number must be connected and linked to your WhatsApp Business account.
• Your business must qualify for a display name review.

How to Change Your Display Name in Meta WhatsApp Manager

If you have a regular business account, follow these steps to submit a display name change for approval.

1. Log in to your Meta Business Manager and select your business.
2. Click on WhatsApp Manager.
3. Select the specific WhatsApp account where you wish to update the display name.
4. In the left-hand menu, click Phone Numbers.
5. In the Name column, hover your cursor over the current display name and click the pencil icon that appears.
6. In the Edit Display Name dialog, type your new display name.
7. Click Next to submit the change for review.

For Official Business Accounts (OBA)

If your account is an Official Business Account (OBA), you cannot use the self-serve method above. You must contact Direct Support for assistance with changing your display name.

What Happens After You Submit the Change?

After you submit the new display name, Meta will process the review. The outcome depends on your business verification status.

• If your business is not verified, your display name will be confirmed immediately, and the certificate will be available for download.
• If your business is verified, the display name will show a Pending Review label in the Phone Numbers section. Once approved, a View button will appear, allowing you to download the certificate.

After Approval: Update Your CRM Registration

Once your new display name is approved, you must update the registration within your CRM to reflect the change. The method depends on your platform configuration.

• For the WhatsApp Business Platform (Cloud API): Register the phone number using the Registration endpoint. A certificate is not required.
• For the WhatsApp Business Platform (On-Premises API): Register the new display name using the Account endpoint.

Best Practices to Avoid a Declined Request

Following these guidelines can help prevent your display name change from being rejected.

• If your brand name is a single word, avoid adding spaces.
• Do not use emojis, slogans, excessive capitalization, or stylized symbols.
• Ensure the name is strongly tied to your verified business identity. For example, if your legal name is "Owner Connector Solutions Ltd," use "Owner Connector" or "OwnerConnector Solutions." Do not use "OwnerConnector Official."

Important Notes

• You can change your display name up to 10 times within a 30-day period. After 30 days, a new cycle begins.
• The approval certificate for a new display name is only valid for 14 days. If it expires, you must resubmit the name for approval.
• A display name review is not required to start using the WhatsApp Business Platform, but it is necessary if you want your business name to appear instead of your phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the WhatsApp Business display name important?

It is the primary identifier customers see, so it should be a clear and professional representation of your business that complies with WhatsApp's policies.

What are the key guidelines for a display name?

The name must comply with WhatsApp's Commerce and Business policies, clearly represent your business, and be linked to it (even for test accounts). It should not be a generic term, a geographic location, or include words like "Official" or Meta product names.

Can I use a display name that includes a restricted product?

No. The name must not reference any products or services prohibited by WhatsApp's Commerce Policy.

What about test or demo accounts?

Even test accounts must be linked to a business and use a relevant name, such as "Fresh Produce Test."

Who can change the display name?

Any business on the WhatsApp Business Platform can change it, but the process differs. Regular accounts use WhatsApp Manager, while OBAs must contact support.

What are the requirements for changing the name?

You need a business portfolio, a WhatsApp Business Platform signup, a connected phone number, and eligibility for a display name review.

How long does approval take?

It typically takes a few minutes to a few hours, but can sometimes be longer.

Can I change my display name multiple times?

Yes, up to 10 times in a 30-day period.

What if my display name certificate expires?

If the 14-day certificate expires, you will need to resubmit the display name for a new approval.