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# What's the Difference between 'Inbox' and 'Flows' Messages?

In the Messages tab, you'll notice that some incoming messages are found in the **Inbox** while others are in **Handled**. What's the distinction between these folders?

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/7/a/9/f/7a9fc4558a9de000/screenshot-2026-08-10-at-16155_ayytvl.png)

The difference is simple. **Inbox** messages are received outside of a flow and are [handled elsewhere](/en/article/start-a-flow-after-receiving-a-message-that-doesnt-match-any-keywords-1y1ss8o/). **Handled** messages are received within a flow. 

That's it! See more about [Messages](/en/category/messages-okkwsz/) in our Help Center. 

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