How to troubleshoot Instagram automation delivery

Fast checks

• Confirm the automation is active, not draft or archived.
• Confirm the connected Instagram account is still connected.
• Check whether the trigger is watching the right post, Reel, story, or account.
• Check the keyword spelling and whether the comment actually matches.
• Check whether the workflow is inside the 24-hour messaging window.
• Check whether the Smart link or destination is active.

Common causes

• The comment used a word you did not include.
• The automation is set to selected content and the post was not selected.
• The user already triggered the flow and the workflow is waiting on another step.
• A manual reply or pause setting stopped automation for that contact.
• The connected account needs refreshed permissions.
• A delay pushed the DM outside Meta's allowed messaging window.
• The message needs review because an AI step or confidence rule held it back.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. 1Open Automations and find the workflow.
2. 2Check status, connected account, trigger type, selected content, and keywords.
3. 3Open the workflow canvas and run validation.
4. 4Use the test tool with the exact keyword or inbound message you expected.
5. 5Check the Inbox for the contact and look for pause state, manual replies, or provider window warnings.
6. 6Check Review Queue if AI or review-first replies are involved.
7. 7Open the linked Smart link and confirm it is active.
8. 8Retest from Instagram after saving changes.

When to rebuild

Rebuild only when the trigger or campaign idea changed. Most delivery issues are setup details: wrong content, wrong keyword, stale connection, expired window, inactive link, or a message waiting for review.