What Does Error 131042 Mean?
WhatsApp (Meta) charges businesses based on conversation categories like:
- Marketing
- Utility
- Authentication
- Service
To send paid messages, your account must be billing-enabled. If not, the system blocks message delivery and throws Error 131042.
Why This Error Happens
Here are the most common reasons behind this issue:
1. Payment Method Not Linked Properly
You may have added a card in Meta Business Manager, but did not assign it to your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA).
2. Bank Restrictions
Some banks block international or recurring transactions, which prevents Meta from charging your card.
3. Card Verification Failed
Meta tries a small test charge (like $1). If this fails, your account becomes ineligible for billing.
Step-by-Step Fix (Xpressbot Users)
Follow these steps to resolve the issue quickly:
Step 1: Open Meta Business Settings
Go to your Meta Business Manager dashboard
Step 2: Navigate to WhatsApp Accounts
- Click on Assets
- Select WhatsApp Accounts
- Choose your business account
Step 3: Go to Billing Section
- Open the Billing / Payment Settings tab
Step 4: Assign Payment Method
This is the most important step:
- Ensure your card is not just added
- Make sure it is actively assigned to your WhatsApp account
Step 5: Verify Payment Status
- Confirm your card is marked as Active
- Check for any failed transactions or alerts
Important Tip
Even if your card is visible in the Payments section, it won’t work unless it’s linked directly to your WhatsApp account.
FAQs
Why am I still seeing the error after adding a card?
Because adding a card alone is not enough. You must assign it specifically to your WhatsApp Business Account.
Can I use a debit card?
Debit cards may work, but credit cards are recommended for better success with recurring billing.
How long does it take to fix?
Usually instant, but sometimes it may take up to 24 hours for Meta to refresh your account status.
My card is active but still not working. Why?
Check your bank statement for a failed verification charge. If Meta couldn’t process it, your account stays ineligible.
Final Thoughts
The “Business Eligibility Payment Issue” (Error 131042) is mostly a setup problem, not a technical failure. Once your payment method is correctly linked and verified, your messaging should resume without any issues.
If you’re using Xpressbot, double-check your billing configuration carefully—it’s usually just one small step causing the blockage.