The most common reason is that Apple’s servers might be down or under maintenance, based on feedback from other users. Other possible causes include an outdated iOS version, issues caused by VPN use, your device’s region settings not matching your actual location, or not having two-factor authentication set up. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes this Apple Pay issue is due to a minor glitch with your iPhone’s iOS. Restarting your phone can often fix the problem. Before you proceed, make sure that Apple Pay, Apple Card, and Apple Pay Cash services are active and running.
2. Try a Different Network
Apple Pay may not work if your current network is restricting access to necessary resources (such as a workplace network). Switching to a different network can help.
3. Update Your iPhone’s Regional Settings
Apple Pay is only available in certain countries and regions. If your iPhone’s region is set to a place where Apple Pay isn’t supported, you’ll encounter this issue. Adjusting your iPhone’s region may fix it.
4. Enable Cellular Data for Apple Wallet
If the Apple Wallet app isn’t set up to use cellular data, it might not properly communicate with Apple’s servers, leading to Apple Pay being unavailable. Allowing Apple Wallet to use cellular data can fix this.
5. Turn Off VPN on Your iPhone
If your iPhone uses a VPN to connect to the Internet, it may interfere with Apple Pay, which relies on your device’s actual location. Disabling your VPN may resolve the issue.
6. Disable Your iPhone’s Ad Blocker
If an ad blocker on your iPhone is interfering with communication to Apple’s servers, Apple Pay might not be able to connect. Disabling your ad blocker could fix the issue.
7. Refresh iPhone’s Connection to Cell Towers (Refresh PRL)
The PRL (Preferred Roaming List) stores information about networks your phone uses. A corrupted PRL might cause Apple Pay issues, especially at physical retail locations using NFC (Near Field Communication) for payments. Refreshing the PRL can sometimes resolve this. Please note: the steps below work for Sprint as an example, but codes and processes can vary by carrier.
8. Reset iPhone’s Settings to Factory Defaults
Incorrect settings can cause Apple Pay issues. Resetting your iPhone’s settings (but not deleting your data) can return everything to default. You’ll need to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords and other settings, so make a note of anything important.
9. Disable and Re-Enable Apple Pay Cash
Sometimes Apple Pay Cash encounters a temporary error. Turning the feature off and back on may help.
10. Edit Your Apple ID Information
If your Apple ID information on the Apple website doesn’t match what’s on your iPhone, Apple Pay might not work. Updating your Apple ID details so they match can solve the issue.
11. Re-add Your Cards to Apple Pay
If you get an error when adding a card, it could be a temporary glitch with Apple’s servers (for example, a wrong expiration date saved in the cache). Removing your card, waiting 24 hours, and re-adding it usually solves the problem. Note: If you haven’t added an Apple Card to your Wallet, payments might fail.
12. Sign Out and Back In to iCloud
A temporary problem with your iCloud login may cause Apple Pay issues. Signing out and back in can help, but proceed with caution.
13. Completely Reset Your iPhone (Factory Reset)
If you’ve tried everything above and Apple Pay still won’t work, your iPhone’s system software might be corrupted. Resetting your iPhone to its factory settings can solve stubborn problems. If none of these steps work, contact your card’s issuing bank to make sure your card is active and not blocked. Sometimes, banks pause payment access for suspected fraud until a previous suspicious transaction is approved. If the issue continues, there’s a chance your iPhone may need a hardware check—especially if the “secure element” (part of the Apple Pay system) has failed.
