SMS and WhatsApp Credits
Understand how messaging credits work for SMS and WhatsApp workflows
SMS and WhatsApp messages in meetergo workflows require credits. This guide explains how the credit system works and how to manage your messaging balance.
How Credits Work
Each SMS or WhatsApp message sent through workflows consumes credits from your account balance.
Credit Consumption
| Message Type | Credits Used |
|---|---|
| SMS (domestic) | 1 credit |
| SMS (international) | 1-3 credits (varies by country) |
| 1 credit |
Message Length
SMS messages over 160 characters may count as multiple messages:
| Characters | Messages | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1-160 | 1 | 1 |
| 161-320 | 2 | 2 |
| 321-480 | 3 | 3 |
WhatsApp messages don't have this limitation.
Checking Your Balance
- Go to Settings → Billing or Credits
- View your current credit balance
- See usage history and remaining credits
Purchasing Credits
Through Dashboard
- Go to Settings → Credits
- Click Buy Credits
- Select a credit package
- Complete payment
Credit Packages
Credits are typically sold in packages. Larger packages often have better per-credit pricing.
Automatic Refill
Some plans include automatic credit refills:
- Monthly credit allocation
- Auto-purchase when balance is low
Credit Expiration
Credits have an expiration period:
- Typically valid for one month
- Unused credits may not roll over (check your plan)
- New purchases extend your balance
Managing Usage
Monitor Consumption
Track where credits go:
- Which workflows send the most messages
- Which meeting types trigger SMS
- Peak usage times
Optimize Workflows
Reduce credit usage:
- Send SMS only for high-priority reminders
- Use email for less urgent communications
- Consolidate reminder timing
Low Balance Alerts
meetergo notifies you when credits run low:
- Email notification to account owner
- Dashboard warning
- Time to purchase more credits
Fallback Behavior
When credits are depleted:
SMS Workflows
- SMS messages fail to send
- System may fall back to email (if configured)
- Workflow continues without SMS
Best Practice
- Monitor your balance regularly
- Set up automatic refills if available
- Keep a buffer of extra credits
WhatsApp-Specific Notes
Template Messages
WhatsApp requires pre-approved message templates:
- Templates are configured in your WhatsApp integration
- Dynamic fields are replaced at send time
- Non-approved messages cannot be sent
Integration Required
WhatsApp messaging requires:
- Active WhatsApp Business integration (via Superchat)
- Approved message templates
- Sufficient credits
Cost Considerations
When to Use SMS
SMS has high open rates (90%+) but costs credits. Use for:
- Final reminders (1 hour or less before meeting)
- High-value meetings where no-shows are costly
- Attendees who prefer text messages
When to Use Email
Email is included in your plan. Use for:
- Initial confirmations
- Detailed information with links
- Follow-ups with attachments
Hybrid Approach
Combine channels for best results:
- Email for confirmation (free)
- SMS for final reminder (1 credit)
- Email for follow-up (free)
Troubleshooting
Message Not Delivered
If SMS isn't delivered:
- Check credit balance
- Verify phone number format
- Confirm workflow is enabled
- Check if number can receive SMS
Credits Disappearing Fast
If credits deplete quickly:
- Review active workflows
- Check meeting volume
- Look for duplicate workflows
- Audit message length (long messages = more credits)
Wrong Credit Amount Deducted
International messages and long messages cost more. Check:
- Recipient's country
- Message character count
- Any special characters (may affect encoding)
FAQ
Do test messages use credits?
Yes, test messages consume credits just like real messages.
Can I get a refund for unused credits?
Refund policies vary. Contact support for your specific situation.
What happens to scheduled messages if I run out of credits?
Scheduled SMS messages will fail. Consider purchasing credits before they're needed.
Are credits shared across team members?
Yes, credits are at the company level and shared by all users.
Do email workflows use credits?
No, email is included in your subscription and doesn't require credits.
Related Articles
Was this article helpful?
Let us know if this article answered your questions.