WhatsApp Opt-In: How to Collect Customer Consent

Opt-in means a customer has clearly agreed to receive messages from your business on WhatsApp. It is the foundation of good WhatsApp marketing: it keeps your messages welcome, lowers the chance of blocks and reports, and is a requirement of WhatsApp’s own business messaging rules for business-initiated messages.

This is practical guidance, not legal advice. Rules on consent and data protection differ by country, so check what applies to you.

Why opt-in matters

• Fewer blocks and reports. People who asked to hear from you are far less likely to report you.
• Better replies. Interested people respond.
• Protection for your number. Messages people expect are the best way to keep your account in good standing.
• Trust. Customers remember businesses that respect their choices.

Six ways to collect opt-in

1. A tick box on forms and at checkout. “Send me order updates and offers on WhatsApp.” Leave it unticked by default.
2. A click-to-chat link or QR code. When customers message you first, they have started the conversation themselves. Make one with our link generator or QR code generator.
3. At the counter or reception. Ask “May we send you updates on WhatsApp?” and note the answer.
4. A website chat button. Visitors who tap it choose to start a chat. See the chat button generator.
5. A sign-up page for offers. A simple form for people who want deals and announcements.
6. An invitation on channels you already use. On your invoice, receipt or email, invite customers to send “YES” to your WhatsApp number to get updates.

Wording that works

Be specific about what people will receive and how often:

“Yes, send me order updates and occasional offers on WhatsApp. I can stop them any time by replying STOP.”

Keep a record

For each person, note who agreed, when, how (form, QR code, counter) and what they agreed to receive. A simple spreadsheet is enough. If you are ever asked how you got a number, you can show it.

Handle opt-outs properly

• Add “Reply STOP to stop messages” to marketing messages.
• Remove people who ask to stop immediately, and do not message them again.
• Keep a do-not-message list so removed people do not come back with your next import.

What not to do

• Do not buy, rent or scrape phone number lists.
• Do not pre-tick consent boxes.
• Do not treat a number given for billing as permission for promotions.
• Do not add people to groups without asking.

Good consent habits make every other tip easier. Read our safe sending checklist next.