# WhatsApp message template checker

> The WhatsApp template checker reads a message template and flags what commonly gets it rejected: variables out of sequence, a variable at the start or end, mismatched braces, too many variables for the text, and length or button limits. Where the fix is mechanical, it suggests a corrected version. It runs in your browser, so the template never leaves your device.

Source: https://milvao.com/tools/whatsapp-template-checker · Updated 2026-11-05

## Key takeaways

- Numbered variables must run {{1}}, {{2}}, {{3}} with no gaps, and the body can't start or end with one.
- The body has a 1,024 character limit; a text header and the footer have 60 each.
- A template can have up to 10 buttons: up to 10 quick replies, 2 URL buttons, 1 phone button and 1 copy code button.
- Passing these checks doesn't guarantee approval. Meta also reviews the content and category.

## How to use the WhatsApp template checker

1. Paste the template body over the example. Use {{1}}, {{2}} for numbered variables, or lowercase names like {{first_name}}.
2. Add the header and footer text if your template has them.
3. Enter how many buttons of each type it has, and their labels, one per line.
4. Read the issues, most serious first. Fix the ones marked Fix before submitting.
5. Copy the suggested fix if one appears, then replace the placeholder words it added with your own.

## What the WhatsApp template checker looks for

| Check | Rule | Where it comes from |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Brace format | Variables use double braces, {{1}}, with no spaces or single braces | Meta template review |
| Special characters | No #, $ or % inside a variable | Meta template review |
| Sequence | Numbered variables run 1, 2, 3 with no gaps | Meta template review |
| Start and end | The body can't start or end with a variable | Meta template review |
| Too many variables | Flagged when there are fewer than 2 words of text per variable, plus 1 | Rough rule from a provider; Meta gives no number |
| Length | Body 1,024 characters, text header 60, footer 60 | Meta template components |
| Buttons | Up to 10 in total; 10 quick reply, 2 URL, 1 phone, 1 copy code; labels up to 25 characters | Meta template components |
| Emojis and links | Notes many emojis and shortened links for review | Meta says emoji use may be limited; the link note is our advice |

## Why templates get rejected for variables

Meta's template review page lists variable problems among its common rejection reasons: missing or mismatched braces, special characters, numbers out of sequence, too many variables for the length of the message, and a variable at the very start or end. A variable at the edge is called a dangling parameter.

Meta doesn't publish a number for "too many variables". Some providers use a rough rule: words and variables together should be at least three times the number of variables, plus one. The checker uses that rule and labels it as a rule of thumb. If you see the warning, add a few words of context around the variables.

## What the checker can't tell you

The checker reads only what you paste. Check Meta's current documentation before you submit, since limits can change.

- Whether Meta will accept the template's category (marketing, utility or authentication) for the content.
- Whether the wording meets WhatsApp's commerce and business policies.
- How recipients will rate the message once you send it.
- Rules for other component types, such as media headers and carousels.

## Frequently asked questions

### Why was my WhatsApp template rejected?

Common reasons on Meta's review page include variables that aren't sequential, a variable at the start or end of the body, mismatched braces, special characters in a variable and too many variables for the message length. Content and category problems can also cause a rejection.

### Can a WhatsApp template end with a variable?

No. Meta says a template can't start or end with a parameter. Add a few words after the last variable, even a short closing line.

### How long can a WhatsApp template body be?

Meta's template components page gives a maximum of 1,024 characters for the body, 60 for a text header and 60 for the footer.

### How many buttons can a WhatsApp template have?

Up to 10 in total, with at most 10 quick replies, 2 URL buttons, 1 phone number button and 1 copy code button. With more than 3 buttons, WhatsApp shows 2 and puts the rest behind a "See all options" button.

### Is the WhatsApp template checker free?

Yes. It is free, needs no sign-up and runs in your browser. The template you paste is not sent anywhere.

## Sources

- [Meta for Developers: WhatsApp template components](https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/templates/components) (checked 2026-11-05)
- [Meta for Developers: WhatsApp template review](https://developers.facebook.com/documentation/business-messaging/whatsapp/templates/template-review/) (checked 2026-11-05)
- [Syniverse support: How to avoid too many parameters rejection in WhatsApp templates](https://sdcsupport.syniverse.com/hc/en-us/articles/30569685832471-How-to-avoid-too-many-parameters-rejection-in-WhatsApp-Templates) (checked 2026-11-05)

## Related pages

- [WhatsApp link generator](https://milvao.com/tools/whatsapp-link-generator)
- [Introduction message generator](https://milvao.com/tools/introduction-message-generator)
- [Privacy and consent](https://milvao.com/privacy-and-consent)
- [How Milvao works](https://milvao.com/how-it-works)