Re-engagement message

The error “Re-engagement message” is commonly returned by the WhatsApp Business API when a business attempts to send a message outside the allowed service window, without using a pre-approved message template (template/HSM).

This error indicates that the 24-hour session messaging window has expired.

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What is WhatsApp's 24-Hour Window?

In the WhatsApp Business API ecosystem:

• The business can send free messages (session messages) only within 24 hours after the user's last reply.

• After that period, any new message initiated by the business must be a template approved by Meta.

Otherwise, the API returns the re-engagement error.

24h Window - WhatsApp API

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What does “Re-engagement message” mean?

The re-engagement message occurs when:

• The user has not replied to any messages in the last 24 hours

• The business attempts to send a regular message (non-template)

• WhatsApp blocks the send to protect the user experience and avoid spam

📌 This control is performed automatically by Meta.

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Error Code

• Code: 131047

• Description: Re-engagement message

• Source: WhatsApp Business API (Meta)

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Practical Example

1. A customer sends a message today at 10 AM

2. The business responds normally until tomorrow at 10 AM

3. After that time:

   • ❌ Sending free messages is not allowed

   • ✅ Only the following is allowed to be sent approved templates

If the business tries to send a regular message after this deadline, the error 131047 – Re-engagement message will be returned.

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How to Resolve the Re-engagement Error

✅ 1. Send a Message Template

Use a message template previously approved by Meta to restart the conversation.

Common examples:

• Service confirmation

• Return notice

• Status notification

• Commercial follow-up message

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✅ 2. Wait for the User's Reply

As soon as the user replies:

• The the 24-hour window is reopened

• Normal session messages become allowed again

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Best Practices to Avoid the Error

• Always validate if the conversation is within the 24-hour window

• Set up automations to:

  • Automatically use templates outside the window

  • Prioritize quick user responses

• Avoid excessive promotional messages

• Use clear and objective templates for re-engagement

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Official Meta Reference

Official WhatsApp Business API documentation: 🔗 https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/support/error-codes

📌 Code for reference: 131047