My SMS isn't sending or receiving

Last updated: April 3, 2026

Most SMS issues are resolved by a quick device reset or network refresh.

This covers standard SMS. If picture messages or group chats aren't working, see ****MMS or picture messages aren't working.

Step 1 — Toggle airplane mode

Enable for 30 seconds, then turn off. This forces your device to re-register with the SMS centre.

Step 2 — Restart your device

Step 3 — Check your messaging app settings (Android only)

On Android, your messaging app uses an SMSC (Message Centre) number to route texts. If this is blank, SMS won't work even if your service is active: open your messaging app → Settings → More settings → Text messages → check the Message Centre number is populated. If blank, raise it through the app.

Step 4 — Check for short code issues

If you can send and receive with regular contacts but not with banks, apps, or 2FA services, this is a short code issue. Raise it through the app.


This article doesn't cover:

Calls also not working →Calls or texts not working

Picture messages →MMS or picture messages aren't working