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# How many variables can I use in the WhatsApp template body, and can I use variables in the footer?

## Quick answer

* There is no hard limit on the number of placeholders (variables) you can add in the body of a WhatsApp template, as long as the combined text + variables stays within 1,024 characters.
* No, WhatsApp does not allow variables (placeholders like `{{1}}`) in the footer section of a template.

---

## 1 — How many variables can I use in the body of the template?

### 1.1 What is a Variable?

A variable is a placeholder used to insert dynamic content into a template. They are written as `{{n}}`.

Example:

Template:
```
Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} from {{3}} has been shipped. Track it here:{{4}}
```

Filled message:
```
Hi Riya, your order #4812 from ZapKart has been shipped. Track here: zap.link/track4812
```

### 1.2 Common Use Cases

Use `{{1}}`, `{{2}}`, `{{3}}` … within the character limit of 1,024.

Variables are perfect for personalising messages at scale, such as:

* Customer name
* Order ID
* Brand/store name
* Tracking link
* Date/time

### 1.3 Best Practices

* Variables must be numbered sequentially: `{{1}}`, `{{2}}`, `{{3}}` …
* Do not skip or repeat variable numbers.
* Always have a proper value mapped against the variables.
* Always preview and populate variables during template submission for Meta approval.
* Variables are allowed only in the body — not in the footer or button text.

### 1.4 Validation Rules

* Templates with missing or out-of-sequence variables will be rejected.
* Only 1 variable is allowed in the Header if you select "Text". Variables can't be added in the Header if you select an image, video, or document.

![](https://content.api.getguru.com/files/view/df63d706-2b9f-426f-9690-119f5c9de232)

### 1.5 Character limits quick reference

* Body text: up to 1,024 characters (includes variables, text, emojis, punctuation)
* Header: up to 60 characters — may contain one variable if header type = "Text"
* Footer: up to 60 characters — variables not allowed
* Remember: each `{{n}}` placeholder counts as a normal character toward the limit

| Tip
Pro Tip: Keep variable usage minimal and meaningful — overloading templates with 10+ placeholders often hinders readability and increases the risk of rejection.

---

## 2 — Can I use variables in the footer?

### 2.1 What is the footer used for?

The footer is an optional section meant only for static, supporting text, such as:

* Legal disclaimers
* Company names or taglines
* Contact notes (e.g., "Customer Service" or "T&C apply")

### 2.2 Footer limitations

* Maximum 60 characters
* No variables, formatting, or media allowed
* Must be static text only
* If you insert a variable, your template will be rejected by Meta during review

### 2.3 Where can I use variables?

Variables are allowed only in:

* Body section — within the character limit of 1,024 (includes variables and text). Example: Hi `{{1}}`, your order `{{2}}` is ready.
* Header — You can use only 1 variable in the header section when you choose the "Text" option.
* URL buttons — inside query strings. Example: `https://track.com/{{1}}`

### 2.4 WhatsApp template sections — Variables & limitations

| Section | Variables Allowed? |
| --- | --- |
| Header | Limited: only 1 allowed in Text option; for media headers you upload a file. One text variable in the header. |
| Body | Yes: within the 1,024-character limit; must be sequential (`{{1}}`, `{{2}}`…); supports formatting (bold, italics, emojis). |
| Footer | No: max 60 characters; static text only (no variables, formatting, or media). |

| Tip
Use the footer for static trust-building text (e.g., "This is an automated message from ZapKart") while keeping all personalisation in the body.