How to Fix the Generic User Error (135000) in WhatsApp Cloud API
A Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
📌 Overview
Recently, multiple users have encountered the “generic user error” (Error code: 135000) while using the WhatsApp Cloud API. This issue commonly affects dynamic templates that previously worked without problems — until they suddenly stopped.
This guide explains what we found during our investigation and the tested solutions that have helped many users resolve this error.
Investigating the Issue
After validating all API calls and confirming everything was correct from our side, the error still persisted.
A review of discussions in the Meta Developer Forum revealed that:
- No official fix from Meta has been released yet.
- However, many developers reported success using a specific workaround:
Delete all templates and recreate them.
We tested this solution with several clients.
✔️ Deleting and recreating templates resolved the issue temporarily.
✔️ Removing and re-adding the phone number provided a more stable fix in several cases.
Step-by-Step Fix
Method 1: Delete & Recreate Your Templates
- Access Your WhatsApp Business Account: Log in at Meta for Developers.
- Backup Your Templates: Navigate to the Message Templates section, copy all text and details, and take screenshots if needed.
- Delete Existing Templates: Select all templates and delete them.
- Create New Templates: Go back to the Message Templates section and click “Create New Template.”
- Submit for Review: Once completed, submit the template and wait for approval. You can track its status in the Message Templates section.
If the error persists, proceed to Method 2.
Method 2: Delete & Re-add Your WhatsApp Phone Number
- Go to the “Phone Numbers” Section in your WhatsApp Business account.
- Remove the Linked Phone Number: Select the phone number and click “Delete.”
- Re-add the Same Number: Click “Add Phone Number” and follow the setup steps.
- Verify Your Number: Complete the OTP or verification process provided by WhatsApp.
- Test Your Templates: Once done, check if the issue is resolved.
💭 Final Thoughts
While these methods aren’t considered a permanent, Meta-endorsed fix, they have consistently worked for many users experiencing error 135000.
We recommend keeping an eye on Meta’s developer forums for future updates.
If issues persist, consider reaching out directly to WhatsApp Business API support.