Skip to main content
    Error CodesError 131042Envoy

    WhatsApp Error 131042: Payment Issue Block in Envoy

    Messages fail with Error 131042 (business eligibility payment issue). Your WhatsApp sending capability is blocked.

    2 min readUpdated 9 Apr 2026
    General WhatsApp guide available at /learn/whatsapp

    Meta has flagged a payment or billing issue with your WhatsApp Business Account. This triggers an automatic 72-hour block on outbound messaging.

    Immediate

    1
  1. Pause all broadcast campaigns in Envoy
    2. 2
  2. Don't retry failed messages. Retries during the block extend the penalty
    3. 3
  3. Don't create new broadcasts until the block lifts

    4. Fix the Root Cause

    1
  4. Go to Meta Business Suite > Billing
    5. 2
  5. Check for:
    • Expired credit card
    • Failed payment attempts
    • Missing payment method
    • Billing alerts or holds
    6. 3
  6. Resolve any billing issues

    7. Wait

    • The block typically lasts 72 hours from the first error
    • After 72 hours, test by sending a single message from Envoy
    • If it works, gradually resume normal volume
    • If it doesn't, the billing issue may not be resolved, check Meta Billing again
    • Set up payment method before sending your first broadcast
    • Use a credit card with auto-renewal and sufficient credit limit
    • Check Meta Billing monthly for any alerts
    • Keep a backup payment method on file in case the primary card expires

    Was this article helpful?

    Related Articles

    Billing

    Add Payment Method for WhatsApp Broadcasts in Envoy

    You're trying to send a broadcast campaign in Envoy and seeing: "Need to add payment method first in order to use the WhatsApp campaign broadcast feature."