> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.joy.so/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.joy.so/reward-programs/earning-programs/social-activity/instagram-comment-rewards.md).

# Instagram comment rewards

{% hint style="info" %}
This feature is available for the **Advanced and Ultimate** plans
{% endhint %}

### Overview <a href="#user-content-overview" id="user-content-overview"></a>

Reward customers with points for commenting on your Instagram posts. This program helps you:

* **Boost organic engagement** on your Instagram content
* **Increase post reach** through comment activity (Instagram algorithm favors engaging posts)
* **Build community** by encouraging customers to interact with your brand
* **Collect UGC signals** from real customer feedback

#### When to use this <a href="#user-content-when-to-use-this" id="user-content-when-to-use-this"></a>

* Launching new products → drive conversation
* Running giveaways → increase participation
* Building brand awareness → grow your Instagram presence
* Promoting seasonal campaigns → boost visibility

> **Requirement:** Instagram Business or Creator account required.

***

### Step 1: Connect Instagram <a href="#user-content-step-1-connect-instagram" id="user-content-step-1-connect-instagram"></a>

Before setting up the program, connect your Instagram account first.

Go to **Integrations → Instagram**

{% embed url="<https://go.screenpal.com/watch/cOVIianrBDV>" %}

#### Reward customers for linking their account <a href="#link-account-reward" id="link-account-reward"></a>

In **Integrations → Instagram**, open the **Reward for Linking Instagram Account** card, turn it on, and set the **Points** value to reward customers the first time they link their Instagram username — across all three Instagram programs (Comment, Story Mention, Story Reply).

* **One-time** reward — earned only on the first link. Updating the username later doesn't award points again.
* Each program page shows a read-only banner with the current reward, so you set it once here.
* When off, nothing changes for customers.

***

### Step 2: Create the Program & Comment to earn rewards <a href="#user-content-step-2-create-the-program" id="user-content-step-2-create-the-program"></a>

{% embed url="<https://go.screenpal.com/watch/cOVIj2nrB3m>" %}

Go to **Reward programs → Earning programs → Add program → Social activity**

Select **Comment on Instagram (Recommend)** from the event dropdown.

#### Available Settings <a href="#user-content-available-settings" id="user-content-available-settings"></a>

You can customize how this program works to fit your specific campaign needs. Here is a breakdown of the key settings you can configure:

| Section               | Options                                                                            |
| --------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Program info**      | Rule name, Description, Start/End date                                             |
| **Reward method**     | All members / Member by tier, Points value                                         |
| **Post selection**    | All posts / Specific posts only                                                    |
| **Keyword filtering** | Include keywords, Exclude keywords                                                 |
| **Auto engagement**   | Automatic public reply (Single / Random from list / AI-generated), DM notification |
| **Anti-cheat**        | Earning limit (once lifetime / X times per period / unlimited)                     |

**Automatic Public Reply** — when enabled, Joy posts a public reply under the customer's comment after they earn points. Turn on **Enable automatic reply to comments**, then choose a **Reply mode**:

| Reply mode             | How it works                                                                                                                                                                                      |
| ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Single message**     | Replies with the same message every time.                                                                                                                                                         |
| **Random from list**   | Randomly picks one message from your list for each reply — feels more natural and avoids a spammy, repetitive look. Add at least **2 messages**.                                                  |
| **AI-generated reply** | Uses AI (GPT-4o) to generate a natural, contextual reply based on the comment. Set a **Maximum reply length** (50–500 characters) and a **Fallback message** used when AI can't generate a reply. |

All reply messages support the **{points}** (points earned) and **{customer\_name}** variables. If you manage messaging through **Shopify Flow** (the "Reply to Instagram Comment" action), the built-in auto-reply is disabled and Shopify Flow handles replies instead.

#### Customer Experience <a href="#user-content-customer-experience" id="user-content-customer-experience"></a>

1\. **Find the program**: Customer opens the **Loyalty Widget** or **Rewards Page** and sees the "Comment on Instagram" program under Ways to Earn.

2\. **Link Instagram account:** Customer clicks the program and enters their **Instagram Username** to participate. If the linking reward is enabled, they earn the bonus points instantly the first time — and see a confirmation toast.

3\. **Visit your Instagram:** Customer clicks the link to open your Instagram profile directly.

4\. **Leave a comment**: Customer comments on your post (must match any keyword filters if set)

5\. **Earn points:**

Points are awarded automatically. Customer sees:

* **Auto-reply** on their comment — a fixed message, a random pick from your reply list, or an AI-generated response, depending on your setup *(if enabled)*
* **DM notification** in Instagram inbox (if enabled)
* **Points added** to their loyalty balance

<figure><img src="/files/3nb0yM21YTx0MJOOFhQP" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/pYuYNmWWRUlI5hY9qblP" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

### FAQ <a href="#user-content-faq" id="user-content-faq"></a>

**Why can't I see Comment on Instagram option?** Choose **Social activity** first, then select "Comment on Instagram" from the event dropdown.

**Can customers earn multiple times?** Yes. Adjust or disable the limit in **Anti-cheat** settings.

**Why isn't a customer receiving points?**

* Instagram username not entered
* Integration disconnected
* Comment blocked by keyword filter
* Post not in selected list (if using Specific posts)

**Personal Instagram account work?** No. Must be Business or Creator account.

**Are there other programs like Instagram Story Mention or platforms like YouTube, Facebook?** Yes, these features are on our roadmap and coming soon!


---

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