# Getting started with WhatsApp integration

Retainful’s new WhatsApp feature allows businesses to connect with customers on WhatsApp for a more personalized communication experience. This feature provides an easy way to send order updates, promotions, and customer support messages via WhatsApp.

To use this feature, follow the steps below to set up and integrate WhatsApp with your Retainful account.

### Prerequisites

Before you can use Retainful’s WhatsApp feature, ensure you have the following:

1. A Facebook Business Account to manage WhatsApp communications.
2. A phone number that is not already registered on WhatsApp, or you can temporarily use a number provided by WhatsApp.
3. Business Verification by Meta (Facebook). Please note that business verification may take some time to complete.

### Step-by-Step Guide

#### 1. Create a Facebook Business Account

To integrate WhatsApp with Retainful, you first need a Facebook Business account. Here’s how to create one:

1. Go to the Facebook Business page:
   * Navigate to Facebook Business.
2. Sign up or log in to your Facebook account:
   * If you don’t already have a Facebook account, you’ll need to create one. If you have an existing account, simply log in.
3. Create your business profile:
   * Click on Create Account and provide your business details such as the business name, address, and contact information.
4. Set up WhatsApp on your Facebook Business Account:
   * From your Facebook Business Dashboard, navigate to WhatsApp Manager.
   * Click Get Started to link WhatsApp to your account.

**2. Register a Phone Number for WhatsApp**

For the WhatsApp integration to work with Retainful, you must register a phone number that is not already registered on WhatsApp. Retainful allows two options for this:

**Option 1: Use a New Phone Number**

If you don’t have a WhatsApp account associated with the phone number, you can register a new number for WhatsApp. This number will be used to send messages and engage with customers through Retainful.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Note**: This number must be newly registered and not used with any personal or other business WhatsApp accounts.
{% endhint %}

**Option 2: Use a Temporary Number Provided by WhatsApp**

If you do not have a phone number available for registration, you can use a temporary number provided by WhatsApp during the setup process.

* WhatsApp will assign a temporary number that you can use for communication with your customers.
* You can later replace this temporary number with a more permanent number if needed.

#### 3. Business Verification with Meta (Facebook)

After setting up your Facebook Business Account and WhatsApp number, your business will need to go through a business verification process with Meta. This verification ensures that your business is legitimate and eligible for WhatsApp services.

* Verification Process: Meta will ask for documentation related to your business, such as a business registration number or proof of business address.
* Timeframe: Business verification may take some time to process, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks, depending on Meta’s review process. You will be notified once your business has been successfully verified.

{% hint style="success" %}

### Need Help?

If you need assistance at any step of the process:

* Reach out to our support team via chat or email.
* Or [book a support call](https://zcal.co/retainful/onboarding) with one of our product specialists.

We’re here to help you get the most out of your SMS marketing strategy!
{% endhint %}


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