WhatsApp unsubscribe with STOP: how to set up the unsubscribe for newsletters
You need a clear unsubscribe note, a fixed process that saves the unsubscribe, and the rule that nothing is sent afterward.
How to set up unsubscribing for WhatsApp messages.
For unsubscribing from WhatsApp messages you need three things: a clear note on how someone unsubscribes, for example the word STOP, a fixed process that saves the unsubscribe immediately, and the rule that nothing goes to this contact afterward. According to its documentation, Meta requires clear instructions for unsubscribing and that you honor unsubscribes. As of: 02.11.2026.
The unsubscribe paths at a glance.
| Option | Who sets it up | What you need to do |
|---|---|---|
| Stop word like STOP in the reply | You | Note in the message, read the reply, save the contact as unsubscribed |
| "Offers and announcements" setting in WhatsApp | The contact themself | Note that marketing templates are then not delivered |
| Blocking or reporting the business | The contact themself | Avoid if possible by making unsubscribing easy and only sending what was agreed to |
Sources: Meta, opt-in and Meta, marketing templates, accessed on November 2, 2026.
What does Meta require for unsubscribing?
Meta requires that you give clear instructions on how people can unsubscribe from certain types of messages. According to Meta, signing up and unsubscribing should be clear and easy to understand. Meta also recommends getting consent separately by message type, for example for marketing and for service. That way someone can unsubscribe from promotions and still receive the messages they need.
Source: Meta, opt-in, accessed on November 2, 2026.
How do you build in the stop word ??
You write the unsubscribe note into your messages and decide beforehand what happens when someone replies with the stop word. The note sits short and clearly visible at the end, for example "To unsubscribe, reply STOP". Your system must recognize the reply, save the contact as unsubscribed and send them no more newsletters afterward. The word STOP is your practical suggestion, Meta doesn't prescribe a specific word.
Example of an unsubscribe note. The text is an example.
Can contacts also stop marketing messages in WhatsApp by themselves?
Yes. According to Meta, WhatsApp users can stop or resume receiving marketing templates via the "Offers and announcements" setting. If a contact has done this, the interface accepts your send but doesn't deliver the message. You then get error code 131050. Meta also offers a notification to the software about changes to this setting. So keep in mind that someone may stop getting promotions even without your stop word.
Source: Meta, marketing templates, accessed on 02.11.2026.
Why is easy unsubscribing good for your quality?
Easy unsubscribing lowers the risk that contacts block or report your business. Meta gives as the reason for separate consents that people otherwise block because of unwanted messages. Meta also states that its systems throttle businesses when quality stays low over a longer period. So whoever keeps the way out simple is more likely to keep their ability to send.
Source: Meta, opt-in, accessed on November 2, 2026.
How do you check that unsubscribing works?
Test the path yourself before you send to real contacts. Sign up with your own number, reply with the stop word and check three things: Is the number listed as unsubscribed in your list afterward, does the next newsletter not reach it, and does the unsubscribe stay in place even after a list import? This is a recommendation from practice, not a rule from Meta. How consent comes about is explained in Double opt-in on WhatsApp, when advertising is allowed in Advertising to customers via WhatsApp.
What does that mean for SmartChat?
With SmartChat, confirmed contacts unsubscribe via STOP. After that, SmartChat sends them nothing more. You can find the process for newsletters in Creating a WhatsApp newsletter.
Frequently asked questions about the Unsubscribe.
Does the unsubscribe word have to be STOP?
No. Meta doesn't prescribe a specific word. What matters is that the way is clearly explained and works.
Where is the best place for the unsubscribe note?
Short and clearly visible in the message itself, for example at the end. This is a recommendation, not a rule from Meta.
What happens if a contact stops marketing in WhatsApp itself?
The interface accepts the send but doesn't deliver the marketing template, and reports error code 131050. Source: Meta, retrieved on 02.11.2026.
Should I collect consent separately by message type?
Meta recommends it. That way someone can unsubscribe from promotions and still receive the messages they need.
How do I test my unsubscribe path?
Sign up with your own number, reply with the stop word and check whether the contact is marked as unsubscribed and no longer receives any newsletter.
Where do I read how consent comes about?
On the page Double opt-in on WhatsApp.
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Last updated: By SmartChat Team