If you sell clothes, food, phones, hair products or services, the free WhatsApp Business app makes you look professional and saves time. Here is how to set it up.
Step 1: Download
Install WhatsApp Business (green icon with a “B”) from the Play Store or App Store. It is a separate app from normal WhatsApp.
Step 2: Register your number
- New business number: enter it and verify with the SMS code.
- Your current WhatsApp number: the app offers to move it; your chats come across. That number then stops working on normal WhatsApp.
Many traders use a separate business SIM so personal and business chats stay apart. You can run both apps on one dual-SIM phone.
Step 3: Fill in your business profile
- Business name and category.
- Description, address (or area), opening hours.
- Email, website or Instagram link.
- A clear logo or shop photo as profile picture.
Step 4: Use the selling tools
- Catalogue: show products with prices. Set up your catalogue.
- Greeting, away messages and quick replies: set up auto replies.
- Labels: tag chats as New customer, Pending payment, Paid, Delivered.
- Short link and QR code: under Business tools, so customers can message you in one tap.
WhatsApp vs WhatsApp Business
| Feature | WhatsApp Business | |
|---|---|---|
| Business profile (hours, address) | No | Yes |
| Catalogue | No | Yes |
| Greeting and away messages | No | Yes |
| Quick replies | No | Yes |
| Labels for chats | No | Yes |
| Price | Free | Free |
Good habits for selling on WhatsApp
- Reply quickly, even with a quick reply, so customers don’t go to the next seller.
- Use labels to track who has paid and who is waiting for delivery.
- Keep a separate business number so your personal number stays private.
- Back up your business chats regularly (Settings → Chats → Chat backup).
Problems and fixes
- Verification code not arriving: see verification code not received.
- Moved number and lost old WhatsApp: a number can only be active on one of the two apps; install normal WhatsApp with a different number for personal use.
- Want Meta Verified or ads: these are optional paid features; the basic app is free.
Protect your business account
Turn on two-step verification. Hacked business accounts are used to scam your customers.
Related WhatsApp guides
WhatsApp changes its menus from time to time and they differ slightly between Android and iPhone. If an option has moved, look for it under Settings → Privacy, Chats or Account, or update WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.
Common questions
Is WhatsApp Business free?
Yes. The WhatsApp Business app is free to download and use.
Can I use the same number on WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business?
Not at the same time on the same phone app. You can move your number from WhatsApp to WhatsApp Business and keep your chats.
Can I use WhatsApp Business on a computer?
Yes, with WhatsApp Web or the desktop app, linked to your phone.
What is the difference from normal WhatsApp?
WhatsApp Business adds a business profile, catalogue, quick replies, greeting and away messages and labels.
