alfie-response.md

This is a very common hurdle when setting up WhatsApp Business API (WABA) accounts. Meta is extremely strict during the initial setup phase to prevent spam and ensure legitimate businesses are using the platform.

Based on the screenshot you provided and your description, here is an analysis of the situation and the steps to fix it.

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1. What could be the reason for this rejection and how to fix it?

There appears to be a contradiction between what you were told (document rejection) and what the screenshot shows (activity restriction). However, they are usually linked.

Here is a breakdown of the most probable reasons for your rejection, ranked by likelihood:

Reason A: The #1 Cause – "Business Verification" Mismatch (Crucial)

You mentioned Meta "didn't like some of the documents." This almost always means Business Verification failed.

• The Problem: Look at the screenshot. Your WhatsApp Account Name is "Alfie". Unless your legal business registration documents explicitly say the company name is just "Alfie," Meta will reject you. Meta requires the WABA name to match the Legal Business Name on your documents (e.g., certificate of incorporation, business license, tax document) exactly.
• Why the screenshot shows "Activity": When Business Verification fails, Meta often places a blanket restriction on the account, labeling it under generic "policy" or "activity" issues because an unverified business is not allowed to perform any activity.
• The Fix:

1. You must change the WhatsApp Business Account name from "Alfie" to your actual, legally registered business name.
2. You must ensure the address you provided matches the documents exactly.
3. You must re-upload documents that match that new legal name precisely.

Reason B: The Personal Phone Number Issue

You mentioned you added your "personal phone number."

• The Problem: While you can migrate a personal number to the WhatsApp Business API, it is often problematic. If that number was previously banned for spam on personal WhatsApp, or if it is still active on a mobile phone while you try to connect it to the API, it can trigger security flags.
• The Fix: Ideally, use a fresh phone number dedicated to the chatbot business. If you must use your personal one, ensure you have completely deleted the WhatsApp account from your mobile app before trying to register it with the WABA API.

Reason C: Policy Violation in Business Description

• The Problem: You are building an "AI chatbot." Meta has strict Commerce and Business Messaging policies. If your business description or initial setup suggested you might be using the bot for prohibited categories (e.g., gambling, adult content, high-risk financial services, or outbound spam), they will restrict you immediately.
• The Fix: Ensure your business profile clearly states a legitimate business purpose that complies with WhatsApp's Commerce Policy.

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2. I need to fix it urgently, how to do so (specific URLs or contacts)

Important Reality Check: Meta does not have a phone number for support. There is no "urgent" email address you can write to outside of their system. You cannot bypass their ticketing process.

The "Request review" button in your screenshot is grayed out because there are no specific messages listed in the table below it to review. The issue is at the account level.

Here is the fastest way to navigate their system to fix this:

Step 1: Go to the Actual Source of the Problem (Business Verification)

The screenshot you sent is just showing the symptom. You need to go to the cause.

1. Go to your Meta Business Suite (business.facebook.com).
2. On the bottom left menu, click Settings (the gear icon).
3. Click on Business settings.
4. On the left-hand menu, navigate to Security Center (sometimes under "Business Info").
5. Look here for the rejection. You will likely see a box that says "Business Verification Status: Unverified" or "Rejected" with a button to "View Details" or "Edit."

This is where you will find exactly which document they rejected and why (e.g., "Name does not match," "Document unreadable").

Step 2: Correct the Info and Re-submit

• Before re-submitting anything: Change your WABA name from "Alfie" to your legal entity name.
• Follow the instructions in the Security Center precisely to upload clearer documents that match your account name.

Step 3: The "Account Quality" Hub (Alternative Path)

If you cannot find the info in Step 1, check the central hub for account bans.

• URL: Go to https://business.facebook.com/accountquality/
• Look for your Meta Business Account in the list. It should show a red restriction icon. Click on it to see the overarching reasons for the ban and options to appeal.

How to contact Support "Urgently"

The only way to contact them is through the built-in support messenger, and "urgent" depends on their load.

1. Go back to Business Settings in Meta Business Suite.
2. Look for a small "Help" icon (usually a question mark usually in the top right or bottom right corner) or a "Support" button on the bottom left.
3. Click "Create a new case" or "Contact Support."
4. Select "WhatsApp Business Account" as the asset type.
5. Choose the issue related to "Account Restricted" or "Verification Failed."

When you open the ticket: Keep it brief and professional. State clearly: "My business verification failed because my WABA name 'Alfie' did not match my documents. I have corrected the name and am ready to resubmit documents, but my account is restricted. Please advise."