Troubleshooting Error 135000 - Generic User Error in WhatsApp Templates

When sending WhatsApp template messages through your CRM, you might encounter error code 135000, officially known as "Generic User Error." This guide explains what this error means, its common causes, and step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

Understanding Error 135000

Error 135000 occurs when a WhatsApp template message fails to send due to an unspecified issue with the request parameters or a restriction on Meta's side. This error is particularly challenging because Meta does not disclose the specific reason behind it. The error can sometimes be triggered by false positives in Meta's security systems, meaning legitimate templates might be incorrectly flagged.

Common Causes of Error 135000

• Unsupported Content in Template Variables: Using emojis, WhatsApp links, special characters, or overly long text in variable fields like {{1}} or {{2}} can trigger this error.
• False Positive in Security Detection: Meta's automated systems may incorrectly flag legitimate templates as spam or scams.
• Policy Violations: The template or its variables might violate WhatsApp's Business Policy, such as promoting prohibited content or using inappropriate language.
• Incorrect API Request Format: Mismatched parameter counts, wrong component types, or formatting errors in the API request can cause the error.
• Template Corruption: Previously working templates may become corrupted or desynchronized in Meta's systems, leading to unexpected failures.

How to Resolve Error 135000

Follow these steps in order to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

Step 1: Review Variable Values

Check all values being passed into template variables. Ensure they contain only supported content:

• Avoid emojis, special characters, WhatsApp links, HTML, or empty values.
• Use plain text, numbers, dates, names, or approved URLs only.

Step 2: Verify Request Format

Confirm that your API request matches the approved template exactly:

• Check that the number of variable parameters in the request matches the template.
• Ensure component types (header, body, buttons) align with the template structure.
• Verify the template name and language code are correct.

Step 3: Recreate the Template

If the error persists, the template may be corrupted. Recreate it as follows:

1. Save a copy of the template content.
2. Delete the affected template from WhatsApp Settings in your CRM.
3. Create a new template with the same content but a new name.
4. Submit the new template for Meta's approval (may take up to 24 hours).
5. Test the template once approved.

Step 4: Re-add the Phone Number

If recreating templates doesn't work, try removing and re-adding the phone number linked to your WhatsApp Business Account:

1. Go to your WhatsApp Business Account in Meta Business Manager.
2. Select the affected phone number and delete it.
3. Add the number again and complete the verification process.
4. Test your templates after re-verification.

Note: Deleting a phone number will remove it from your WhatsApp Business Account temporarily.

Preventing Error 135000

• Use plain text and approved content in template variables.
• Regularly review WhatsApp's policies to ensure compliance.
• Avoid making frequent changes to approved templates.
• Monitor template performance and recreate them if errors occur repeatedly.