⚡Quick answer -
You can, but not recommended.
Each WhatsApp template must serve one clear purpose—either:
This classification is required by Meta’s official categories. Mixing purposes in one template can cause approval delays and rejections (if misused). Such templates (if template content follows the Meta's guidelines) will always be a part of the Marketing Category, even if they contain a notification.
Meta uses template categories to:
Once submitted, Meta may approve, reject, or recategorize your template. This affects delivery, opt-in requirements, and campaign success.
If you submit a template labelled as Utility but it contains promotional wording (e.g., “limited-time offer”), Meta may:
Intent | Message Example | Correct Category |
Order Update | “Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} has shipped. Track here: {{3}}.” | Utility (Transactional) |
Promo Inserted | “Hi {{1}}, your order {{2}} shipped! Also, get 20% off your next one!” | Will always be Marketing |
Re-Engagement | “Hi {{1}}, we miss you! Come back for 15% off all items.” | Marketing (Promotional) |
Always create separate templates for different goals:
This ensures faster approvals, fewer rejections, and higher delivery success.
✨ Pro Tip: Before submission, do a quick “intent check” — If it has any salesy or discount language, mark it as Marketing!