How can I use a phone number registered to an existing WhatsApp account?

This error appears in the WhatsApp signup when the number you entered is still active on a WhatsApp app or with another WhatsApp API provider.

This number is registered to an existing WhatsApp account. To use this number, disconnect it from the existing account. Then, return to this page and re-enter the number. Note: It may take up to 3 minutes for the number to become available.

Why this happens

You chose to add a new number in Meta's signup window, but the number is already registered on WhatsApp Messenger, the WhatsApp Business app or another provider's WhatsApp API. Meta does not let a new registration replace an active one.

How to fix it

1. If the number is on the WhatsApp Business app, you do not need to remove it. Close the signup, start it again, and choose the option to connect your existing WhatsApp Business app. This is WhatsApp Coexistence: you keep the app and your chats, and the number also works in ChatMaxima. See Can I use the WhatsApp Business app and the WhatsApp API on the same number?
2. If the number is on the regular WhatsApp Messenger app, move it to the WhatsApp Business app first, then use Coexistence as in step 1.
3. If the number is connected to another WhatsApp API provider, disconnect it there first. If you use the WhatsApp Business app on it, go to Settings > Account > Business Platform > Disconnect in the app. Otherwise ask your provider to release the number and turn off two-step verification.
4. If you want the number on the API only, delete the WhatsApp account on the number. This erases your chat history, so use Coexistence if you want to keep it.
5. After you disconnect or delete, wait at least 3 minutes, then return to the signup and enter the number again.

Notes

• If you still see the error after these steps, you can also connect a different number that is not on WhatsApp.
• Repeated attempts in a short time can trigger a temporary block. See Why does the "Registration/Deregistration failed due to too many attempts" error occur?
• Still stuck? Contact ChatMaxima support from the chat on our website and we will help you check the number.

Related articles

• How to connect a phone number that is already registered on WhatsApp