WhatsApp Messages to Remain Free for Regular Users, Business Charges Change From October 1

A viral claim that WhatsApp will start charging ordinary users for sending messages has caused concern among users in India. However, regular WhatsApp users will not have to pay for sending messages to friends, family or other contacts. The upcoming pricing changes apply to businesses using the WhatsApp Business Platform, not the regular WhatsApp app.

New Charges for Business Messages

From October 1, 2026, Meta will introduce changes to WhatsApp Business Platform pricing in India. Utility messages such as order confirmations and delivery updates will cost ₹0.115 per delivered message, even when sent within an active 24-hour customer service window. Authentication messages, including OTPs, will also cost ₹0.115 per message.

Marketing messages, including promotional offers and advertisements, will continue to cost ₹0.8631 per delivered message.

1,000 Service Messages Free

Businesses will receive 1,000 free service messages per business phone number every month. After the free quota is exhausted, additional service messages will be charged at ₹0.115 each. Applicable taxes are charged separately.

72-Hour Free Window Continues

The 72-hour free messaging window for conversations initiated through Click-to-WhatsApp advertisements will continue. Customers also do not pay a messaging fee for contacting businesses or receiving replies.

Regular Users Need Not Worry

The key point is that the new pricing is for the WhatsApp Business Platform. Ordinary WhatsApp users will continue to use the messaging service without a per-message charge. Businesses using the platform should, however, review the revised pricing and payment requirements before the new rules take effect.