A WhatsApp chatbot in India has up to three costs: a monthly platform subscription, Meta's own WhatsApp messaging charges, and sometimes a one-time setup or build fee. Replies to customers who message you first are where most small businesses spend their time, and these are the cheapest conversations to run. Ready-made AI receptionists such as Connectail start at ₹350 a month including GST.
The three costs to check
| Cost | What it is | Who charges it |
|---|---|---|
| Platform subscription | The software that runs the chatbot, inbox and AI answers | The chatbot provider, monthly or yearly |
| WhatsApp messaging charges | Meta's charge for certain message types sent through the WhatsApp Business Platform | Meta, by its published rate card |
| Setup or build fee | One-time cost to design flows or train the bot | Agencies and some providers |
1. Platform subscription
This is the monthly fee for the software. Check what the price really includes before comparing:
- AI answers or flows only? Some plans only include button menus; AI answers cost extra.
- Per-user charges. Some tools charge for every team member who replies. Connectail plans with team access do not charge per user.
- Channels. Is website chat, Instagram or Facebook included, or a separate product?
- GST. Many prices are shown without 18% GST. Connectail shows GST-inclusive prices.
2. Meta's WhatsApp charges
When a business uses the WhatsApp Business Platform (the API), Meta charges for some messages. Messages a business starts with a template, such as promotions or reminders, are usually charged. Replies to a customer who messaged you first are where an AI receptionist does most of its work. Meta publishes and updates its rates, so check its current WhatsApp Business Platform pricing before you plan a campaign.
A chatbot that only answers incoming enquiries usually costs much less in Meta charges than one used for bulk promotions. Always ask a provider which charges are included and which are passed on.
3. Setup and build fees
Agencies often quote a one-time build for custom chatbots, plus monthly maintenance whenever your prices or services change. Ready-made AI receptionists skip the build: you add your price list and approve the answers yourself. Connectail includes free setup help.
Hidden costs people forget
- Updating the bot. If every price change needs a developer, the bot goes out of date.
- Wrong answers. A bot that guesses prices costs you customers and arguments.
- Missed handovers. If nobody sees the conversations the bot cannot handle, those customers are lost.
Connectail plans
All prices below are monthly and come from the live plan list. Each plan has a 7-day free trial with no card needed. Meta's WhatsApp charges, where they apply, are separate.
| Plan | Price | Channels | AI call minutes | AI text answers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Web | ₹350 / month | Website chat | — | 500 / month |
| WhatsApp + Calls | ₹1,600 / month | 50 per 30 days | 1,000 / month | |
| Connect | ₹2,700 / month | Website chat, Instagram, WhatsApp | 100 per 30 days | 2,000 / month |
| Complete | ₹4,300 / month | Website chat, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp | 180 per 30 days | 5,000 / month |
See full plan details. Meta's WhatsApp messaging charges, where they apply, are separate. Live AI calls need a paid plan and business verification.
How to choose
- Count your monthly enquiries and where they come from: WhatsApp, calls, website or Instagram.
- Pick a plan that covers those channels without paying for ones you do not use.
- Run the free trial with your real price list and your real customer questions.
- Check how easily your staff can take over a conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Is a WhatsApp chatbot free?
The WhatsApp Business app itself is free and has basic automatic messages. A chatbot that understands questions and works with a team inbox needs a paid platform, and Meta may charge for some message types.
Do I pay Meta separately?
Yes, Meta's WhatsApp messaging charges are separate from your Connectail subscription and follow Meta's current rates.
Are Connectail prices inclusive of GST?
Yes. Prices shown on Connectail include 18% GST.
Is there a setup fee?
No. Connectail does not charge a setup fee, and expert setup help is free.