The green checkmark badge next to a WhatsApp display name signals immediate credibility. It proves a business is verified as an official brand by Meta, encouraging customer engagement.

However, securing this badge requires meeting strict eligibility criteria. This step-by-step guide details Meta's branding rules, documentation requirements, and submission processes. Follow these steps to secure the badge for your corporate number.

Key Takeaways

  • Official Business Account (OBA) status displays your company name in header views even if the customer hasn't saved your number.
  • Verification requires an active API account, a verified Meta Business Manager, and 2-step security setup.
  • Meta evaluates brand authority using press coverage and article links; listings are not accepted as proof.
  • The green tick application is processed inside the Meta Business dashboard, with reviews taking 2 to 7 business days.

Table of Contents

1. What is an Official Business Account?

Meta distinguishes between two types of API accounts: standard verified business profiles and Official Business Accounts (OBA). While both send automated templates, only OBA numbers display your brand name instead of a phone number.

This visible name helps prevent spam blocks. Learn about settings on our WhatsApp Automation page.

2. Eligibility Check & Prerequisites

To submit an application, you must satisfy Meta's technical prerequisites:

  • WABA Account: An active WhatsApp Business Account under a verified Meta Business manager.
  • Display Name: A brand name that matches your legal name or registered trademark details.
  • Press Links: 3 to 5 articles from notable news portals proving brand authority.

3. Step-by-Step Verification Application

Once prerequisites are met, apply directly inside your Meta Business panel:

  1. Log in to Meta Business Manager and select WhatsApp Manager.
  2. Select Phone Numbers and click the Settings icon next to your number.
  3. Under Official Business Account, click Submit Application.
  4. Enter 3-5 press links and submit details.

Review counselor details on our Partnership & Onboarding Portal.

4. Common Rejection Reasons & Fixes

Many initial applications are rejected because they lack press coverage or submit brand social listings (e.g. Facebook Page, Instagram account) which Meta does not evaluate.

If rejected, you must wait 30 days before resubmitting. Review session costs on our Pricing Details page.

5. Maintaining OBA Verified Status

Securing the green tick does not shield your number from spam rating bans. If you send broadcasts without opt-in consent, user reports will lower your rating, and Meta may remove your OBA status. View template designs on our WhatsApp Template Directory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the main benefit of the Green Tick?

A: It displays your brand name in customer chats even if they haven't saved your number, improving open rates and lowering report metrics.

Q2: Does Meta charge a fee for the Green Tick?

A: No. Meta does not charge for submitting or maintaining an Official Business Account status.

Q3: How long does the verification review take?

A: Reviews take 2 to 7 business days, and results appear directly inside your Meta Manager portal.

Q4: Can a small business get the Green Tick?

A: Yes, if the brand has notable press coverage and a verified Business Manager profile.

Q5: What happens if my application is rejected?

A: Rejections do not affect your messaging capability. You can continue sending messages and apply again after 30 days.

Q6: Do we need a developer to submit the application?

A: No. You can complete the submission form inside your Meta dashboard code-free.

Q7: Are press releases accepted as proof of brand authority?

A: Paid press releases are generally rejected. Meta evaluates organic coverage in major news portals.

Q8: Does the Green Tick prevent user blocks?

A: It reduces blocks by proving identity, but sending promotional spam will still result in user reports.

Q9: Can we change our display name after getting the badge?

A: If you change your display name, your Green Tick status is removed, and you must apply again with the new name.

Q10: Are Facebook Page verification ticks connected to WhatsApp?

A: No. Verified badges on Facebook and Instagram do not guarantee WhatsApp OBA status, but they improve your brand authority.

Q11: Can a landline number get the green badge?

A: Yes. Landline and toll-free numbers registered on the API are eligible for OBA status.

Q12: Can we apply for verification during the sandboxed test period?

A: No. You must verify your Meta Business Manager and complete your phone number registration before applying.

Q13: Does the Green Tick increase my daily message limits?

A: No. Messaging limits scale based on message quality ratings and volume, not OBA status.

Q14: Can we add utility documents to the application?

A: Legal documents verify your Business Manager, but Meta evaluates media coverage to approve the Green Tick.

Q15: What is the benefit of a shared inbox for verified numbers?

A: It allows team members to handle patient enquiries from a single verified number, increasing customer confidence.

Next Steps

Securing the official Green Tick verification is a key step to establish brand authenticity. Ensuring compliance with Meta's guidelines protects your messaging reputation.

Ready to apply for Official Business Account status? Connect with our onboarding team to audit your verification parameters today.