WhatsApp has two separate cost layers when you use it through Hellotext:
- the Hellotext pricing model for platform, performance, SMS, and eligible non-SMS message usage; and
- WhatsApp Business Platform fees defined by Meta.
Meta fees are paid directly to Meta through the billing setup for your WhatsApp Business Platform account. Hellotext does not collect these fees, and they do not appear as charges on your Hellotext invoice.
Important: You pay Hellotext for Hellotext charges and Meta directly for WhatsApp Business Platform charges. Paying a Hellotext invoice does not pay or settle your Meta balance.
What Meta controls
Meta determines which WhatsApp messages are billable and the applicable rate. The amount can depend on factors such as the recipient’s country, the message category, and Meta’s current pricing rules. Meta calculates these charges and collects payment directly using the billing arrangement configured for your WhatsApp Business Platform account.
Because Meta can change its categories and rates, use the official WhatsApp Business Platform pricing page for current values.
What Hellotext controls
Hellotext applies its own pricing model to the Hellotext service. Eligible WhatsApp message volume can be part of the non-SMS variable messaging amount, but that amount is charged only when it is the highest Hellotext amount for the month.
This does not replace or absorb Meta fees. Hellotext does not add Meta fees to the Hellotext invoice or collect them on Meta’s behalf.
How to estimate the complete cost
Review both parts:
- Use Settings → Billing for your Hellotext plan, usage, and invoices.
- Use the payment and billing information configured with Meta, together with Meta’s current rate table, to review WhatsApp fees paid directly to Meta.
- Confirm the business country, recipient markets, and expected message categories used in the estimate.
Do not add all four Hellotext pricing components together. First apply the Hellotext highest-only rule. Then account for applicable taxes and review Meta charges separately in Meta’s billing environment; those charges are paid to Meta, not Hellotext.
Common questions
Are Meta fees included in the plan minimum?
No. They are not included in the plan minimum and are not paid to Hellotext. Meta charges them directly under your WhatsApp Business Platform billing setup.
Does fair use mean WhatsApp has no Meta cost?
No. Fair use determines whether Hellotext’s variable non-SMS amount becomes the Hellotext charge. It does not change Meta’s WhatsApp pricing.
Why can two businesses have different WhatsApp costs?
Recipient countries, message mix, and Meta pricing can differ. Compare the same period and categories when reconciling costs.