If you’re using Facebook or Instagram to connect with your contacts, you’ve probably heard about the "24-hour rule." ⏰ It’s super important to understand how this rule works, so you don’t run into any messaging headaches! Let’s break it down and make sure your communication stays smooth and effective.

What is the 24-Hour Rule?

Here’s the basic idea:

• Within 24 Hours: You’re free to respond to messages and even send promotional content.
• After 24 Hours: Things get a little trickier. You can still reply to messages, but sending promotional content is a no-go unless the person has opted in. ✅ If they’ve agreed to receive such messages (or if you’re using Message Tags for things like customer support or reminders), you're good to go!

This rule helps prevent spam and ensures your messages are relevant and timely. The goal is to make your interactions feel more human and personal — no one wants to feel bombarded with random, unwanted messages!

At first, the Facebook Messenger 24-hour rule might seem like a restriction, but it’s actually a great way to keep your conversations authentic. 💬 Instead of sending a ton of marketing messages, you’ll offer your contacts valuable, meaningful interactions that show you care about the relationship.

See Meta's guide here.

How to Follow the 24-Hour Rule Using Textit 📲

Wondering how to stay on top of the 24-hour rule while using Facebook Messenger? Don’t worry — Textit makes it easy to stay compliant! 🙌 Here’s a simple guide to help you set everything up:

Step 1: Create a Flow with an Opt-In Request 🔄

Start by creating a flow that asks your contacts to opt in for future messages. This will help you stay within the 24-hour guidelines! ⏳

1. Go to the Flows tab and click "New Flow."

2. Name your flow and set up a keyword trigger to get it started.

3. Build the flow and start with the action: Send an opt-in request. 📩

4. You can search for an existing opt-in request or create a new one, then click OK.

Step 2: Set Up Opt-In & Opt-Out Flows 🔄❌

Once your opt-in request is set, you’ll need to create flows to manage contacts who either opt in or opt out.

• For Opt-Ins: Add them to an "Opt-ins" group and remove them from the "Opt-outs" group. You can even send a follow-up message to say thanks for opting in! 🙏

• For Opt-Outs: Set up a flow that removes contacts from the "Opt-ins" group and adds them to the "Opt-outs" group. You can also send a message letting them know they’ve opted out. 🚫

Step 3: Send Messages to Opted-In Contacts ✉️

Now that everything’s in place, it’s time to start sending messages to those who have opted in!

1. Go to Broadcasts and select the contact or group you want to message.

2. Pick the language and write your message. ✍️

3. Under the text box, click the Facebook icon. A drop-down menu will appear, where you can select which opt-in to use. 🖱️

4. Choose when to send your message, and you’re all set! 🕒

Your message will go out to everyone who’s opted in, no matter how long it’s been since their last message. 📅

Wrapping It Up

The 24-hour rule on Facebook Messenger and Instagram is all about keeping communication timely, relevant, and not spammy. By following this rule, you’ll ensure your interactions are personal and meaningful.

Need Help? Reach Out! If you have any questions, or need a hand setting up your Flows or Broadcasts, just reach out to us in the chat widget at the bottom of the page!