Meta Guide

How to Set Up WhatsApp Auto-Reply

Auto-replies make sure no customer message goes unanswered, even after hours. Here is how to configure them the right way.

How it works

Step by step

1

Write a greeting message

Create a warm first-touch message that welcomes new contacts and sets expectations for response time.

2

Add an away message

Set an out-of-hours reply that tells customers when you will respond and offers a self-serve option in the meantime.

3

Create keyword auto-replies

Trigger instant answers when customers send specific words, like HOURS, MENU, or HELP.

Features

More steps

Set business hours

Define your active hours so the system knows when to send greetings versus away messages.

Test across scenarios

Message your own number during and after hours to confirm the right reply fires every time.

Do it free with Defuser →
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule different auto-replies for different times?

Yes. You can set business hours so customers get a live-greeting during the day and an away message outside those hours.

Will auto-replies annoy customers?

Not if they are concise, helpful, and set clear expectations. The goal is instant acknowledgment plus a useful next step, not repeated spam.

TC
Written by Tabarak Ur Rehman ChaudhryFounder & CEO, Defuser AI · View profile
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