Introduction
A WhatsApp Business Account enables businesses to communicate directly with their customers through the WhatsApp Business Platform. This platform provides an easy and effective way to build strong relationships, share updates, and offer seamless support. There are two types of WhatsApp Business Accounts, each offering distinct features to meet different business needs.
Types of WhatsApp Business Accounts
Business Account
The default account type for any business using the WhatsApp Business App or Platform. It’s an excellent choice for small and medium-sized businesses aiming to connect with their customers efficiently.
- Verification: The business name is displayed after completing the basic Facebook Business Manager verification process.
- Business Profile: Companies can enhance their profiles with essential details such as website links, address, and working hours.
Official Business Account (OBA)
This premium status is granted to well-known and reputable brands, adding a layer of trust and visibility.
- Green Checkmark: An OBA is identified by a green checkmark next to the business name, indicating WhatsApp has verified the business’s authenticity.
- Profile Visibility: The business name is always visible, even if not saved in a customer’s contacts.
Comparison Between Business Account and Official Business Account (OBA)
| Feature | Business Account | Official Business Account (OBA) |
| Default Access | Available to all businesses using the WhatsApp Business App or Platform. | Requires application and approval based on Meta’s criteria. |
| Verification Level | Verified after basic Facebook Business Manager verification. | Requires additional verification, including proof of notability. |
| Display Name Visibility | Shown only after verification or if saved in the customer’s contacts. | Always visible with a green checkmark, even if not saved in contacts. |
| Trust Indicator | No badge or special visibility. | Green checkmark beside the business name to indicate authenticity and build trust. |
| Eligibility Requirements | No specific notability requirement. | Must be a well-known brand frequently featured in reputable news sources. |
| Purpose | Suitable for small to medium businesses looking for a reliable way to interact with customers. | Ideal for large or well-known brands aiming to establish credibility and enhance customer trust. |
Criteria to Apply for an Official Business Account
To qualify for an OBA, businesses must meet Meta’s strict requirements:
- Notability: The business must represent a well-known brand frequently featured in reputable online news sources. Paid or promotional content is not considered.
- Verification: The business must complete verification through Facebook Business Manager.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The account must have 2FA enabled for additional security.
- Supporting Links: Businesses must submit up to 5 supporting articles from trusted publications (e.g., Business Insider, India Today).
- Compliance with Display Name Guidelines: The display name must align with WhatsApp’s rules and match the brand’s external identity.
What Happens if the Application is Denied?
If the request for OBA status is denied, Meta allows businesses to reapply after 30 days. During this time, businesses can still use their regular Business Account to communicate with customers and update their profiles. Denial does not restrict access to WhatsApp Business tools.
Checklist to Apply for OBA
Here’s what businesses need to provide when applying for an Official Business Account:
- Facebook Business Manager verification.
- Two-factor authentication enabled.
- A compliant display name aligned with branding guidelines.
- Live production traffic for at least 30 days.
- A positive message quality score with no history of flagged messages.
Additionally, businesses must include:
- WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) phone number.
- Description of how the number is used, including reference URLs.
- Official display name.
- Business website and Facebook page links.
- 5–6 news publication articles proving the brand’s notability.
For more details, refer to Meta’s official guide: Meta OBA Guide.
Key Points to Consider
- Business Accounts are perfect for small to medium businesses focused on building customer relationships.
- OBAs are ideal for large or well-known brands looking to boost their credibility and stand out with a green checkmark.
Conclusion
WhatsApp Business Accounts offer a powerful platform for businesses to enhance customer communication. Whether you use a regular Business Account or upgrade to an Official Business Account, WhatsApp can help you build trust and loyalty with ease.
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