To gain approval for the Whatsapp Business API, you must verify your WhatsApp Display Name. Your customers see this display name when they first interact with your WhatsApp Business Profile and it is essential in helping them recognize and trust your brand.

So, here we will help you to choose and adjust your WhatsApp Display Name while following all relevant policies created by WhatsApp.

What is a WhatsApp Display Name?

A WhatsApp Display Name is the name that appears on your WhatsApp Business Profile. But why is a display name important for WhatsApp? Here is why;

• It enhances brand recognition.
• It builds credibility and trust among customers.
• It is essential for obtaining the WhatsApp Green Tick (Verified Badge).
• It plays a role in WhatsApp’s Commerce & Business policies.

How to Select a WhatsApp Display Name?

When choosing a display name, ensure that it:

✅ Has a clear relationship with your business.
✅ Complies with WhatsApp Commerce & Business policies.
✅ Is not misleading, generic, or violating WhatsApp’s guidelines.

Check here for complete details on WhatsApp Display Name policies.

Important: If your display name doesn’t follow the rules, it will be rejected.

Also, remember that you can change your WhatsApp Display Name up to 10 times within 30 days. After reaching the limit, you must contact Facebook support to change it again.

Steps for Official WhatsApp Business Accounts (Green Badge Holders)

If you have an Official WhatsApp Business Account (OBA) (with a Green Badge), follow these steps to request a name change:

• Contact Facebook Direct Support.
• Provide the following details:
  1- Question Topic: Request an Official Business Account
  2- Request Type: Update OBA Display Name

Steps for General WhatsApp Business Accounts

If you don’t have a Green Badge, follow these steps:

• Go to Business Manager and select your business.
• Click “WhatsApp Accounts” and then choose WhatsApp Manager.
• In WhatsApp Manager, click on “Account Tools”.
• Navigate to the left-most menu and click “Phone Numbers”.
• Under the Name column, hover over your current display name and click the pencil icon.
• In the Edit Display Name section, enter your new display name.
• Click Next.

If your new Display Name meets WhatsApp’s formatting rules, it will be changed within 2-3 hours.

WhatsApp Display Name Formatting Guidelines

To avoid rejection, ensure that your Display Name follows these formatting rules:

✅ Matches your business name or a known variation.
✅ Is not misleading or generic (e.g., “Customer Service” alone won’t work).
✅ Does not include symbols, emojis, slogans, or taglines.
✅ Avoids unnecessary capitalization, abbreviations, or spacing.
✅ Represents a real business entity.

Note: If your name does not comply with these guidelines, it will not be approved.

FAQs

1. What happens if my WhatsApp Display Name is rejected?

If your display name is rejected, check if it meets WhatsApp’s guidelines. Modify it accordingly and submit it again.

2. Can I use my website URL as my WhatsApp Display Name?

No, website URLs are not allowed as WhatsApp Display Names. Use your brand or business name instead.

3. How long does it take to verify a WhatsApp Display Name?

If your name follows WhatsApp’s formatting rules, it usually gets verified within 2-3 hours.

4. Can I use special characters or emojis in my Display Name?

No, WhatsApp does not allow special characters, emojis, or symbols in the display name.

5. Is the Green Tick mandatory for a WhatsApp Business Account?

No, but having a Green Tick boosts credibility and trust for your brand.

6. Can I request a Display Name change after reaching the limit?

Yes, but you need to contact Facebook support for further assistance.

7. Does the Same Display Name Go in the Green Tick Form?

Yes, the Green Tick (Verified Badge) is assigned with the same display name. This makes it crucial to choose your Display Name wisely. However, you can provide an alternative name for the Green Tick if needed.

8. Can the Display Name Be Specific to a Department?

Yes, your WhatsApp Display Name can represent a specific department of your business.

For example:

XYZ Finance (for financial services).
XYZ Sales (for sales and marketing).
XYZ Support (for customer assistance).

Conclusion

A well-chosen and verified display name can boost your credibility, enhance customer trust, and make your brand easily recognizable.

Therefore, Take your time to select a clear, professional, and compliant display name that truly represents your business. And remember, you have 10 chances every 30 days to tweak it—so make them count!