Articles on: WhatsApp for Business

WhatsApp for Business Numbers

Get Set Up

Follow these simple steps to get your new WhatsApp Business numbers up and running:


  1. Generate your new Whatsapp for Business phone number: Visit our Customer Portal, click on "WhatsApp Business" and then "Add Number".
  2. Provide an alias for the number - normally this would be your name - and a forwarding Email Address.
  3. We will provide you with a new UK mobile number.
  4. Download the WhatsApp for Business app.
  5. Sign up with the new number provided to you in step 2.
  6. We will email you the WhatsApp Signup code to confirm your number.


Numbers cost £3.99 per month.


Frequently Asked Questions


Can I access WhatsApp for Business on a computer?

Yes! You can either install the WhatsApp app from the Windows Store or the Mac App Store.


Can I set up more than one number?

Yes! You can add additional numbers for your team.


Can I send SMS messages from this number?

No; the number can only be used to receive messages.


Can I pick my own phone number?

No. You get allocated an 07 number.


What is a virtual office phone number?

There is no physical location associated with a virtual phone number from Hoxton Mix. You can choose an 07 format for your virtual phone number, and once connected to WhatsApp for Business you will receive calls straight to where you are.


Can I use my business number for voice and text?

Only through WhatsApp, and then only to another WhatsApp number. This means that you don't pay for calls or texts. Business calls and messages will appear in your WhatsApp Business app.


How much does it cost to make calls and send texts?

It's free if you are connected to Wifi or using your mobile phone plan inclusive data allowance.

The messages and calls are sent through WhatsApp, and not your network. Business calls are routed via WhatsApp Business.


Can I use my virtual phone number with WhatsApp for Business abroad?

Yes. The only cost will be how you connect to the internet. If you are using your mobile phone data, make sure there are no costs associated with using it abroad. Check on your personal mobile number price plan.

Once connected to Wifi or data, all of your calls and messages happen through the internet. Business calls and messages will be routed to your WhatsApp Business app.


Why do I need a separate phone number for WhatsApp for Business?

You can't have two numbers on one WhatsApp app. The added benefit of having a separate number is that it ensures your business and personal accounts and communications remain distinctly separate. This makes management and running your business easier.


Is WhatsApp for Business different to the standard WhatsApp?

Yes. They are separate apps; you will have to install both onto your phone. WhatsApp for Business also needs a unique phone number.


Who is the virtual office phone number service for?

Virtual office phone numbers are essential for online retailers and small businesses that have regular contact with their clients. It is needed to be able to use WhatsApp for Business. Once activated and displayed across your sites and marketing materials, customers can get in touch with you quickly and easily.


Can I connect my teams to my WhatsApp for Business account?

You can connect up to 4 team members to your virtual phone number with WhatsApp for Business.


Can I add additional virtual phone numbers to my account?

You can add new numbers to your business whenever you want.

They will be separate numbers and will require a separate mobile phone to run from.


Can I use my WhatsApp for Business number anywhere in the world?

Yes. You can use it anywhere in the world where there is an internet connection.


What does the WhatsApp API do?

This is designed for larger organisations and is not included in this offer.


How long can I keep my number for?

As long as you maintain your account and keep up to date with account charges. It works the same way as your personal phone number.


Can I port my business number to another provider?

Yes.


Can I use my number with any provider?

Yes. It works through the WhatsApp Business app and will connect to any network provider. Any limitations will relate to your network provider and the local network connection.


Are there any file-sharing limitations?

WhatsApp Business app has a fair use policy, but generally speaking, the bandwidth is big enough to support most business needs. https://business.whatsapp.com/policy


Are my messages secure and protected?

Your chats are end-to-end encrypted through the WhatsApp Business app. The WhatsApp Business support chat provides greater details. https://faq.whatsapp.com/820124435853543


What does an incoming call look like on my mobile phone?

All calls to your phone will look the same. Any calls coming into your WhatsApp for Business number will automatically be forwarded to your personal number. This is a quirk in WhatsApp Business.


How do I switch off or pause my unique WhatsApp number?

You can set your opening times on your website and in your WhatsApp Business configuration. This notifies the users when you are available. You can also use your phone settings to temporarily pause a second SIM. This varies by phone type - see your phone manufacturers guides for more information.


Where do I go for WhatsApp for Business support?

For all questions relating to WhatsApp for Business, please visit https://faq.whatsapp.com/. We will not be able to support any questions relating to your WhatsApp fpr Business account, please contact WhatsApp for Business support directly.


How long does a virtual phone number take to set up?

Generally, your virtual phone number will be generated on the same working day.


How do I get the app installed on my phone?

It is a free to download app available here https://business.whatsapp.com/products/business-app.

For any issues downloading and installing, please contact the WhatsApp for Business account support teams. They have a full WhatsApp business platform with support information.


Are there any limitations on who I can call through my WhatsApp for Business number?

You can call anyone, as long as they are a contact in your WhatsApp Business app.


Does WhatsApp Business support voicemails?

No. WhatsApp Business currently doesn't support voicemails.


Do I need a contract for my virtual phone number?

No, you can cancel any time.


How do my WhatsApp messages appear?

Business WhatsApp messages will appear in your WhatsApp for Business app, and personal messages will appear in your personal WhatsApp app.

Both messaging apps have the same user experience, with the business messaging app having some additional functionality with enhanced business features.


How do I view and share my WhatsApp number?

Sharing your number is straightforward with WhatsApp Business:

  1. Open WhatsApp Business > Settings.
  2. Tap Settings > Business Tools > Short Link.
  3. Choose one of the three options to share your number, including the QR Code option.


Yes, it's legal to use a UK virtual phone number. Getting set up with a local virtual phone number in the UK is easy. Your UK business will be set free from landline phones.


How we work with WhatsApp Business

We are an independent provider of world-class virtual office products and solutions, used by over 60,000 SME's to date. The product and service we offer is access to a unique and personalised business number, so that you can connect with WhatsApp Business. All enquiries relating to the WhatsApp business account should be directed towards WhatsApp.

For all of your WhatsApp Business number enquiries, please contact us via our Service Desk - https://help.hoxtonmix.com/en/?_gl=11koefho_gcl_au*MTIwMDY2NDgzNS4xNzYxNjUwNzM1.


Updated on: 19/11/2025