WhatsApp's verified badge for businesses: what the green tick became, how to get the blue check, and whether it matters
For years businesses chased the green tick, a badge WhatsApp gave to a small number of large, verified brands. It is gone. The badge is now a blue check under Meta Verified, available more widely, for a fee. Here is what it is, how to get it, and the honest answer on whether a small business needs it.
Quick answer
WhatsApp replaced the green verification tick with a blue check under Meta Verified. Businesses on the official WhatsApp Business Platform or the Business app can apply through Meta Verified for a monthly fee, subject to Meta's checks. A number connected to ReplyKit does not carry the badge. For most small businesses, a complete business profile, a consistent name, a fast reply and an honest assistant disclosure do more for trust than a badge.
From green to blue
The original green tick was granted by Meta to notable brands with no application route for small businesses. Meta later folded business verification into the paid Meta Verified programme, using a blue check, and opened it to more businesses. Details change; the WhatsApp Help Center and Meta's business pages carry the current rules.
How to get the badge
- Have a WhatsApp Business account, on the app or the official platform, with a complete profile.
- Apply for Meta Verified for business through the Meta Business Suite or the WhatsApp Business app, where offered in your country.
- Pass Meta's checks: business documents, name consistency, and eligibility rules.
- Pay the monthly subscription. Pricing varies by country and plan tier.
A number connected to ReplyKit is on the official platform, which is the route that supports the badge; ReplyKit does not apply for it on your behalf, and Meta decides. See why ReplyKit uses the official platform.
Does a small business need it?
- Customers who found you on Google, saw your signboard or were referred already trust the number. The badge adds little.
- What customers notice: a business name that matches the shop, a profile photo, hours, an address, and a fast, useful reply.
- An assistant that says it is an assistant and hands over on request builds more trust than a checkmark next to a bot that pretends.
- The badge matters most for brands at risk of impersonation. If scammers pose as you, verification is worth the fee.
Free trust signals
Complete the WhatsApp Business profile: name, category, description, hours, address, website, catalogue. Use the same name everywhere. Reply in seconds; response time is the trust signal customers feel. Keep the automated-assistant disclosure on. Our profile guide covers the fields, and etiquette covers the tone.
Frequently asked questions
Is the WhatsApp green tick still available?
No. Business verification now shows as a blue check under Meta Verified.
How much does WhatsApp verification cost?
Meta Verified for business is a monthly subscription whose price varies by country and tier. Check Meta's current pricing.
Can a number connected to ReplyKit get the badge?
No. It is a normal WhatsApp number. The badge requires the official Business app or platform and Meta Verified.
Do customers care about the badge?
Less than about a complete profile, a consistent name and a fast, honest reply. It matters most against impersonation.
Does an AI agent reduce trust?
Not when it discloses that it is an assistant, answers accurately and hands over on request.
Trust comes from the reply
Fast, accurate, honest about being an assistant. 7-day free trial.
Sources and further reading
- WhatsApp Help Center
- WhatsApp Business app, official overview
- WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy · opt-in, opt-out and prohibited-use rules every business must follow
ReplyKit is an independent product and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Meta or WhatsApp. Meta's verification programmes, eligibility and pricing change; check Meta's current pages before applying.