How to Fix the "Can't Send Messages" Error on Telegram?

Telegram is a popular messaging app, but sometimes users encounter a frustrating problem: the inability to send messages. This issue can arise due to various reasons, such as network connectivity issues, app glitches, or account restrictions.

This guide will walk you through all possible causes and provide effective solutions to help you get Telegram working smoothly again.

Why Can’t You Send Messages on Telegram?

Before jumping to solutions, it’s important to understand the common reasons behind this issue:

Network Issues: A weak or unstable internet connection can prevent messages from being sent.
App Bugs or Outdated Versions: Using an outdated version of Telegram may cause functionality issues.
Blocked by the Recipient: If someone has blocked you, your messages won’t be delivered.
Account Restrictions: Telegram may restrict your account due to spam reports or policy violations.
Storage Problems: Insufficient device storage can affect app performance.
Server Downtime: Telegram servers might be temporarily down, causing message delays.

7-Step Guide to Fix the “Can’t Send Messages” Error on Telegram

Follow these step-by-step instructions to resolve the issue. Start with simple fixes and move towards more advanced solutions if needed.

Step 1: Restart the Telegram App

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor glitches that prevent Telegram from sending messages. Closing and reopening the app refreshes its processes and can quickly fix the issue.

To restart Telegram:

On Android: Tap the recent apps button (usually a square or three-line icon), find Telegram, and swipe it away to close it completely.
On iPhone: Double-press the home button or swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the app switcher. Then, swipe Telegram off the screen to close it.

Once you’ve closed the app, reopen Telegram and try sending a message. This quick step often resolves temporary bugs or background issues affecting the app’s performance.

Step 2: Check Your Internet Connection

Check Your Internet Connection

A weak or unstable internet connection is one of the most common reasons why messages fail to send on Telegram. To rule out connectivity issues, start by verifying your internet connection.

Here’s what you can do:

Switch Between Networks: Toggle between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the problem persists. Sometimes, one connection might be unstable while the other works fine.
Test Other Apps: Open apps like YouTube or a web browser to check if other online services are functioning properly. If these apps aren’t loading, the issue likely lies with your internet connection.
Improve the Connection: If you’re on Wi-Fi and experiencing a weak signal, move closer to the router. Alternatively, try connecting to a different network to see if that resolves the issue.

Ensuring a stable internet connection is crucial for Telegram to send and receive messages

Step 3: Update Telegram to the Latest Version

Using an outdated version of Telegram can cause performance issues, including problems with sending messages. Developers regularly release updates to fix bugs, improve security, and enhance app performance. Keeping your app updated ensures you have the latest features and fixes.

Here’s how to update Telegram:

On Android: Open the Google Play Store, type “Telegram” in the search bar, and select the app. If an update is available, you’ll see an “Update” button—tap it.
On iPhone: Go to the App Store, search for “Telegram,” and if an update is available, tap “Update”.

After the update is complete, open Telegram and try sending a message to see if the issue has been resolved. Regular updates help prevent technical glitches and keep the app running smoothly.

Step 4: Restart Your Device

Restart Your Device

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the app itself but with your device. Temporary system glitches or background processes can interfere with app performance, including Telegram’s messaging functions. A simple restart can help clear these issues and refresh your device’s system.

Here’s what to do:

Turn Off Your Device: Press and hold the power button on your phone or computer until the shutdown option appears. Select “Power Off” or “Restart.”
Wait for 30 Seconds: This brief pause allows the system to fully shut down and clear any lingering processes.
Turn It Back On: Press the power button again to restart your device.
Reopen Telegram: Once your device is on, open Telegram and try sending a message.

This quick step often resolves hidden glitches and restores normal app functionality.

Step 5: Fix Network & Connectivity Issues

If restarting your device didn’t solve the problem, the issue might still be related to network connectivity. Even if other apps are working, Telegram requires a stable and strong connection to function properly. Here are some effective ways to troubleshoot network-related problems:

Toggle Airplane Mode: Turn on Airplane Mode from your device’s quick settings. Wait for about 10 seconds, then turn it off. This resets your network connections and can often resolve minor connectivity glitches.
Restart Your Router: If you’re connected to Wi-Fi, unplug your router from the power source. Wait for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Once the router restarts, reconnect your device to Wi-Fi and try using Telegram again.
Disable VPN or Proxy: VPNs and proxies can sometimes interfere with Telegram’s servers. Go to your device’s network settings and disable any active VPN or proxy connections to see if that resolves the issue.
Try a Different Network: If the problem persists, switch to a different Wi-Fi network or use mobile data. This helps determine if the issue is with your current network.

Step 6: Device-Specific Fixes

Device-Specific Fixes

If the issue persists after trying basic troubleshooting, it might be related to your device’s settings. Here are specific fixes for Android, iPhone, and desktop/web users to help get Telegram working smoothly again.

For Android Users:

Clear Cache: Go to Settings → Apps → Telegram → Storage → tap Clear Cache. This removes temporary files that might be causing glitches without affecting your chats.
Check Permissions: Ensure Telegram has access to essential data. Go to Settings → Apps → Telegram → Permissions, and make sure permissions like storage, contacts, and network access are enabled.
Disable Battery Saver: Battery optimization settings can restrict background data. Go to Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization, find Telegram, and select Don’t Optimize or turn off battery saver mode.

For iPhone Users:

Check Permissions: Open Settings → scroll down to Telegram, and make sure all necessary permissions (like cellular data, notifications, etc.) are enabled.
Reinstall the App: If issues persist, delete Telegram from your device. Reinstall it from the App Store and log back in. This can clear any corrupted files causing the problem.
Enable Background App Refresh: Go to Settings → General → Background App Refresh, and ensure it’s enabled for Telegram. This helps the app stay updated even when running in the background.

For Desktop/Web Users:

Clear Browser Cache (Telegram Web): If you’re using Telegram Web, clear your browser’s cache. Go to your browser settings → History → Clear Browsing Data, and select Cached Images and Files.
Check Firewall Settings: Antivirus or firewall programs might block Telegram’s connection. Check your firewall settings and ensure Telegram is added to the allowed list.
Update Telegram Desktop App: If you’re using the desktop app, visit Telegram’s official website to download and install the latest version. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.

By applying these device-specific solutions, you can address issues that might be affecting Telegram’s performance on your phone or computer.

Step 7: Contact Telegram Support (If the Issue Persists)

If you’ve tried all the previous steps and still can’t send messages, it’s time to reach out to Telegram’s support team for further assistance. They can help identify account-specific issues or technical problems that aren’t easily resolved through basic troubleshooting.

Here’s how to contact Telegram Support:

Open Telegram:
Launch the app, go to Settings → Help → Ask a Question.
Describe the Issue Clearly:
Provide detailed information, including:
- The device you’re using (Android, iPhone, Desktop, etc.).
- A summary of the troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried.
- When the problem started and whether it’s consistent or intermittent.
Include Screenshots (If Possible):
Attach screenshots that highlight the issue. This can help the support team understand the problem more quickly.
Visit Telegram Support Online:
For additional resources, visit Telegram Support through your browser.

Reaching out to support ensures that more complex issues, such as account restrictions or server-related problems, are handled directly by Telegram’s technical team.

Is Your Telegram Account Restricted or Banned?

If you suddenly find yourself unable to send messages on Telegram, your account may be restricted or temporarily banned. This typically happens due to violations of Telegram’s usage policies. Understanding the possible reasons can help you identify the issue quickly.

Why Your Account Might Be Restricted:

Excessive Messaging to Strangers: Sending too many messages to people who aren’t in your contacts can trigger Telegram’s spam filters. This is especially common for new accounts.
Reported for Spam: If multiple users report your account for spam-like behavior, Telegram may impose restrictions to prevent misuse.
Joining Too Many Groups Quickly: Rapidly joining numerous groups, particularly as a new user, can be seen as suspicious activity and lead to temporary bans.

How to Check If You’re Restricted:

Send a Message to a Known Contact: Try messaging someone you’re sure hasn’t blocked you. If the message doesn’t go through, the issue might be with your account.
Test on a Different Device: Log into Telegram on another device or use the web version to rule out device-specific problems.
Contact Telegram Support: If you’re still unable to send messages, reach out to Telegram Support. Describe the issue clearly, mentioning any error messages, and provide details of the troubleshooting steps you’ve already tried.

Conclusion

If Telegram isn’t sending messages, start with simple solutions like checking your internet and restarting the app. If the problem continues, try clearing cache, adjusting settings, or reinstalling the app. If you suspect an account restriction, reach out to Telegram Support.

If this guide helped you, share it with others who might be facing the same problem. Have any questions? Drop a comment below!