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How to set up Instagram DM auto-replies

Auto-reply when followers DM a specific keyword. See the whole setup on one page: setting keywords, choosing a match type, writing the reply, and scheduling replies for business hours only.

DM auto-replies

When a follower DMs you a keyword, they instantly get the reply you wrote in advance — no need to watch your phone.

  1. Set a keyword

    Words followers often ask about, like “price,” “custom,” or “life path number.”

  2. Write your reply

    Add a reply with a product link, a quote, or how to book.

  3. Turn it on to go live

    Once saved, the rule starts working and followers get a reply as soon as they use the keyword.

What it does

Common questions are handled automatically, and late-night messages get an instant reply, so you can focus on the customers who really need you.

Tip

  • One keyword per rule keeps things clear.
  • Keep adding with “New rule” in the top right. You can turn off or edit any rule in the list anytime.

Match type

Decide how exact a keyword match needs to be. Looser catches more; stricter avoids mistakes.

  1. Exact match

    The follower's message has to match exactly. The strictest option, with the fewest wrong triggers.

  2. Contains

    Matches any message that includes your keyword. The most common option, and it catches the most.

  3. Advanced matching

    Set more flexible match conditions when you need them. Usually “Contains” is enough.

What it does

“Contains” is least likely to miss customers. To avoid wrong replies, use “Exact match.”

Tip

  • Not sure? Start with “Contains,” then tighten it if you get too many wrong replies.

Reply

This is what followers actually get when the rule triggers. It can be plain text, or a card with buttons and images.

  1. Write plain text

    The simplest option: type your reply. You can include links.

  2. Use a card template

    For more impact, switch to a button card or product card with an image and a “View now” button.

  3. Save as a template to reuse

    Save replies you use often as templates so you can pick them next time instead of retyping.

What it does

Followers get exactly what you write. Links get tracking added automatically, so you can see which rules bring the most clicks.

Tip

  • Card replies need button text and a link, or they won't save.

Schedule (reply only at certain times)

Run auto-replies only when you want — during business hours, for example — so messages don't go out late at night.

  1. Set times

    Check the days and times to auto-reply. Outside those times, there's no reply.

  2. Messages still come in the rest of the time

    Messages outside the scheduled times are still logged, so you can handle them yourself later.

What it does

Use this to reply only during business hours, like a real support team, or to avoid messaging at inconvenient times.

Tip

  • Without a schedule, this rule auto-replies 24 hours a day.

Want to try it yourself?

You can set up auto-replies on the Free plan, then decide whether to upgrade after your first customer.

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