How to Fix In-App Purchases Not Working on Android
Identify the Problem
First, let’s check what is causing the problem. This will allow us to troubleshoot the issue directly.
Start by checking the payment method used by the app. Most apps use Play Store’s payment method. However, some of them have their own payment method or a third-party option.
Let’s start with some easy steps:
1. Force Stop and Restart
Sometimes, restarting the app can fix the issue. Close the app and remove it from the Recent Apps list. Now check whether the problem is solved. If not, try force-stopping the app before opening it again.
Restart the app and check if the issue is resolved.
2. Clear the Cache
Apps store cache to make the tasks faster in the app by keeping some pages, features, etc in the memory. But if this data is corrupted, it can make some features not work as intended. Here’s how to clear the app’s cache. You can repeate the same for the Play Store app.
3. Check for Network Connectivity
Payment cannot be made without an internet connection. You will see a message sayingNo Internet Connectionif you are not connected to any network.
But the problem occurs when the network is slow. The payment page tries to load but can take a long time. Socheck whether the problem is with your network connectionand its speed.
4. Check Date and Time
The app, payment method, and even the bank use the date and time on your device as one of the measures in the security checklist. If the date and time are not accurate to your location, the app may block some features, and the payment method may fail with an error message.
Wait a few minutes and check if you may make in-app purchases. If you can’t find the settings, search for ‘date and time’ in your Settings app.
5. Check for Updates
If there are bugs that are causing payment issues on the Play Store, there may already be an update that fixes it. So check for app updates on the Play Store.
To update an app,
To update the Play Store, open the Play Store app,
You can also check if there are any updates for your Android OS.
6. Payment option is Unavailable
On the Payment page, there can be several reasons if you’re able to’t select a payment option.
For subscriptions, some payment methods won’t work as they don’t support automatic monthly payments. Google will notify you with an ‘Unavailable for subscriptions’ message below the payment method.
It may also mean the card needs verification. Visit the Google Pay website and check thePayment methodstab. This verification is needed if Google detects a suspicious payment.
Visit:Google Pay
An expired card could also be the issue. You can update the card details on Google Pay website, head toPayment methods, and select theFixoption.
Either way, Google will mention why that specific payment option is unavailable.
7. Insufficient Funds
Some payment methods may not notify you properly that you have insufficient funds for the payment option you have selected. Check your account balance to make sure you have enough to complete the purchase.
8. Unable to Get OTP
Some payment methods need OTP to complete the payment. While there can be a chance that the server isn’t sending you the OTP to complete the payment, the problem may be on your side too. Check if theproblem is with your text messagesor if you are facing OTP issues.
9. Check if the Payment Is Already Completed
There’s a good chance your payment went through without showing a success message.
If the app is using a different payment method like Paypal, you’re able to check in its settings too.
10. Contact the App Developer
If you still cannot access the feature or product after a successful purchase, contact the app developer.
Most apps also have a feedback page where you may explain the problem, especially if you think it could be a bug.
Ravi Teja KNTS
Tech writer with over 4 years of experience at TechWiser, where he has authored more than 700 articles on AI, Google apps, Chrome OS, Discord, and Android. His journey started with a passion for discussing technology and helping others in online forums, which naturally grew into a career in tech journalism. Ravi’s writing focuses on simplifying technology, making it accessible and jargon-free for readers. When he’s not breaking down the latest tech, he’s often immersed in a classic film – a true cinephile at heart.
