Why You Can’t Edit Certain WhatsApp Templates

If you've tried editing a WhatsApp message template and found the option unavailable, you're not alone. There are several reasons why certain templates can't be modified. Here’s a quick breakdown of why this might be happening — and what you can do about it.

1. The Template Is Already Approved by Meta

Once a template has been approved by Meta, its content becomes locked. While minor adjustments like changing the template name or category may still be possible, you cannot edit the body, header, or footer text. If you need to make content changes, you'll have to create a new template from scratch.

2. The Template Was Created via the API

Templates created directly through the WhatsApp API or a third-party partner tool may not be editable from your platform’s user interface. These templates are typically locked for security and consistency reasons.

3. The Template Is In Use or Was Sent Recently

If a template is currently being used in active workflows or conversations—or was recently sent—it may be temporarily locked from editing. This helps ensure message consistency and prevent disruptions in communication.

4. The Template Falls Under a Strict Category (e.g., “Authentication”)

Certain categories, like Authentication (used for sending OTPs, verification codes, etc.), have much stricter rules. Meta requires these templates to follow a specific format and wording, which means you won’t be able to edit them beyond allowed parameters.

5. The Template Is Under Review or Has Been Flagged

If Meta has flagged a template for low quality or it's under review, editing will be restricted until the issue is resolved. This ensures compliance with WhatsApp’s messaging policies and user experience standards.

What You Can Do

If you're unable to edit a template, here are a few alternatives:

Clone the Template

Duplicate the existing template and make the necessary changes to the new version before submitting it for approval. To clone an existing WhatsApp Template:

1. Navigate to Settings > WhatsApp > Templates
   
   
2. Click the 3 Dot icon next to the template and from the dropdown menu, select Clone Template.
   
   
3. Rename and edit the new template then click Save
   
   
4. Submit the new template for approval

Click here for a detailed walkthrough of the process of cloning a WhatsApp Template 

Delete the Old Template

If it’s no longer needed or relevant, you can delete the original version to keep your template list clean and up to date.