How to set up Instagram DM auto replies

In short: to set up Instagram DM auto replies, you need an Instagram Business or Creator account and a tool that connects through the official Meta API, like autoDM. Once your account is connected, choose a trigger (a comment, a story reply, a follow, or a keyword in a DM), write your message, then switch it on.

1. Make sure your account is a professional account

Meta's automated messaging features are only available to professional accounts. Open Settings in the Instagram app, choose account type, then switch to Business or Creator. It's free and doesn't delete any of your content.

2. Connect Instagram safely

With autoDM, you just log in, click connect Instagram, and approve the permissions Meta asks for. You can disconnect anytime from your autoDM account settings or from the Instagram app.

3. Pick the trigger that happens most on your account

• Comments with a keyword, great for sharing links from posts or Reels. See Comment to DM.
• Story replies, great for quick promos and Q&A sessions. See Story to DM.
• New followers, great for welcome messages. See Follow to DM.
• Keywords in DMs, great for answering repeat questions like prices or shipping costs.

4. Write messages that feel personal

Greet people by name, give them what they asked for right away, then offer a next step. For example:

"Hi Rina, here's the e-book: [link]. Want me to let you know when the class opens?" with quick reply buttons Yes please and the Not now.

5. Test before you publish

Ask a friend to comment with the keyword, then check that the DM arrives and the link opens. After that, tell people how to get the link in your caption, for example "Comment LINK and I'll send it to your DMs".

6. Monitor and improve

Check incoming conversations, reply manually to questions that weren't answered, and update your messages when the same question keeps coming up.

Frequently asked questions

Is Instagram DM auto reply free?

Instagram doesn't offer comment-based auto replies out of the box. You can try autoDM free for 7 days, then plans start at Rp99.000 per month.

Can auto replies get my account blocked?

The risk is low if you use the official API and follow Meta's messaging rules. Read the rules for automated DMs on Instagram before you start.