2 min read Video included

WhatsApp Business API message errors: the codes and what to do

The error codes Meta returns when a WhatsApp message fails β€” 131049, 131047, 131042, 131026 and the rest β€” with the fix for each.

When eGrow sends through Meta's official Cloud API, a message can come back with an error code. The code comes from WhatsApp, not from eGrow, and each one has a specific meaning. This is the reference for the ones you will actually meet.

Error 131049 β€” blocked to protect the ecosystem

  • Message: "This message was not delivered to maintain healthy ecosystem engagement."
  • Cause: Meta is limiting delivery because the recipients did not opt in, or your block/report rate is high.
  • Fix: only message people who opted in, improve the quality and personalisation of your content, and stop unsolicited bulk sends.

Error 131047 β€” the 24-hour window closed

  • Message: "More than 24 hours have passed since the customer last replied to this number."
  • Cause: free-form messages are only allowed within 24 hours of the customer's last reply.
  • Fix: send an approved template instead. Once they reply, the 24-hour window reopens and normal messages work again.

Error 131042 β€” payment problem

  • Cause: billing on the Meta side β€” no card, no default card, or an unpaid balance.
  • Fix: see the dedicated article on the payment-method error; everything is fixed in Meta Business Manager.

Error 131026 β€” the recipient cannot receive it

  • Cause: the number is not on WhatsApp, is mistyped, or cannot be reached.
  • Fix: check the country code and the number format; a number saved without its country code is the usual culprit.

Errors 131031 / 131037 / 133016

  • These have their own articles: account locked, display name not approved, and too many registration attempts.
Good to know: A failed message is always logged in your inbox with its code. Open the conversation, read the code, and match it here before assuming the automation is broken.

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