> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.omnichat.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.omnichat.ai/en/announcements/whatsapp-pricing-update.md).

# WhatsApp Pricing Update

Effective on 1 Oct 2026

Starting 1 October 2026, Meta is changing how WhatsApp Business API messages are priced. Here's what's changing, why, and what you can do to prepare.

### What's changing

1. Meta is introducing per-message charges for service messages and utility templates **sent within the 24-hour customer service window.** Both are currently free.
2. **1,000 Free Monthly Service Messages:** Meta is introducing a monthly free tier. Every phone number will receive 1,000 free service messages each month. Charges will only apply starting from your 1,001st service message. (Note: Free allowances refresh monthly and do not roll over).
3. Regional Rate Adjustments: Meta is updating standard rates across select international markets. Because of these Meta adjustments, Omnichat will adjust our corresponding rates for "Rest of Asia" and "Non-Asia".

#### Within the **24-hour customer service window :** 

| Message type                | Before 1 Oct 2026    | From 1 Oct 2026                                                                              |
| --------------------------- | -------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Service message (free-form) | Free to send         | 1,000 free service messages. Charged per message, starting from your 1,001st service message |
| Utility template            | Free to send         | Charged per template                                                                         |
| Marketing template          | Charged per template | Charged per template (no change)                                                             |
| Authentication template     | Charged per template | Charged per template (no change)                                                             |

Outside the 24-hour window, only templates can be sent, as before. 

### **Why this is changing**

**This is a global policy update from Meta, not a change to your Omnichat subscription.** It applies to every business using the WhatsApp Business API, regardless of which platform they use to send messages.

### **What you can do to prepare**

* **Review your service message volume, communication channels and strategy**, Omnichat offers a range of communication channels and can consider moving low value conversations to alternate channels.
* **Review your chatbot flow** to consolidate steps into fewer, higher-value messages.
* **Update frontline and AI agents guideline** to give them clear rules on when and what to reply.
* **Adjust quick reply template** in order to combine multiple quick replies into fewer messages where possible.
* **Collect information with WhatsApp flow.**
* **Make full use of the 72-hour Free Entry Point** by planning timely follow-ups within 72 hours of a customer's ad click.
* **Consider switching to Coexistence**, so your team can keep messaging for free through the WhatsApp Business App.

**Need help?**

Reach out to your Omnichat account manager or our customer support team for further assistance.