# Troubleshooting WhatsApp Business API Error Code 3: Capability or Permissions Issue
Author: Prashant Jangid
Author URL: https://www.heltar.com/blogs/author/prashant-jangid
Published: 2024-10-29
Category: Troubleshoot
Category URL: https://www.heltar.com/blogs/category/troubleshoot
Tags: WhatsApp API Error
Tag URLs: WhatsApp API Error (https://www.heltar.com/blogs/tag/whatsapp-api-error)
URL: https://www.heltar.com/blogs/troubleshooting-whatsapp-business-api-error-code-3-capability-or-permissions-issue-cm2u1fh5300dlwixofuwvs7lq

When working with the WhatsApp Business API, **Error Code 3** with a **500 Internal Server Error** indicates a capability or permissions issue. This error usually means your app lacks the necessary permissions for the API endpoint being accessed.

## What is Error Code 3?

Error Code 3 signifies that the app is facing restrictions due to missing permissions. The server response shows a **500 Internal Server Error**, meaning the issue is within the application’s configuration rather than the server.

## Solution for Error Code 3

To resolve this error:

1. Go to the **[Access Token Debugger](https://business.facebook.com/business/loginpage/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fdevelopers.facebook.com%2Ftools%2Fdebug%2Faccesstoken%2F)** and paste your access token. Verify if the required permissions, **whatsapp\_business\_management** and **whatsapp\_business\_messaging**, are enabled.

2. ​If your token doesn’t include these permissions, you’ll need to create a new one. While generating the token, make sure to:


   - Select the Meta app you are using for API calls.

   - Add the permissions: **whatsapp\_business\_management** and **whatsapp\_business\_messaging** (step-by-step guide ahead).

### To Generate a New System User Access Token:

1. Log into **[Meta Business Suite](https://en-gb.facebook.com/business/tools/meta-business-suite)**.

2. Choose your business account from the top-left dropdown, then click the **Settings** (gear) icon.

3. Go to **Business settings.**

4. Click **User > System users**.

5. Find and select the system user you need from the list.

6. Click **Generate new token**.

7. Select the **Meta app** you are using for API calls.

8. Select the necessary **Graph API permissions** for the app. Ensure **whatsapp\_business\_management** and **whatsapp\_business\_messaging** are added.

9. Finally generate the token.


For further troubleshooting tips on WhatsApp API errors or insights into maximizing the potential of WhatsApp Business API potential, visit [heltar.com/blogs](https://heltar.com/blogs).


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