Certainly, digital payments, especially through services like Apple Pay, have become crucial in our daily lives. Apple Pay is a convenient method integrated into iOS devices, including watches, allowing users to send and receive money effortlessly. However, some users encounter the message “Apple Pay Services are now unavailable” when attempting to log in. Let’s explore the reasons behind this message and how to resolve the issue.
What Exactly is the error message “Apple Pay Services are Currently Unavailable”?
Before diving into the solutions, let’s quickly grasp the meaning behind the message “Apple Pay Services are now unavailable.”
This notification typically appears when attempting to make payments through Apple Pay. It signifies that the Apple Pay services are temporarily inaccessible, often due to issues at the user’s end. If you are an Apple customer experiencing difficulties with Apple Pay Services, it could be related to:
- The launch of Apple ID while Apple Pay services are unavailable.
- The search for an Apple Card when Apple Pay services are not accessible.
In both scenarios, Apple Pay services are temporarily halted, leading to frustration among users who encounter this issue. Now, let’s explore potential fixes.
Why is there a Service Error with Apple Pay?
The message “Apple Pay services are currently unavailable” can be attributed to various causes. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Network or regional restrictions.
- Outdated iOS version.
- VPN interference.
- Low battery on your iPhone.
- Issues with the servers of Apple Pay.
- Faulty digital payment terminals.
- The phone’s network is not configured with Apple Wallet.
- Inaccurate Apple ID data.
- Glitches with Apple Pay.
Identifying the specific cause of the issue will help in implementing the appropriate solution.
Fix Apple Pay Services are Currently Unavailable Error 2023
You can try the following 10 methods to resolve the issue of “Apple Pay services are currently unavailable.”
- Add a New Email Address to Apple Pay. Follow these steps to address the unavailability of Apple Pay services:
- Navigate to the app’s settings.
- Select Options.
- Choose Email from the bottom of the screen.
- Click on the email address.
- You can change your email address swiftly by selecting Enter New Email Address or Add from Existing Contact. Finally, click Done after making your choice.
2. Restart your Device
You can often resolve minor issues with your device by performing a simple restart, which may also fix this error. To restart your device, press and hold the power button for a few seconds. A slider will appear on the screen; slide it from left to right to turn off the device. To turn it back on, press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears on your screen.
3. Change the Region
In some countries around the world, Apple Pay might not be available. Changing the region can help resolve the “service unavailable” error when using Apple Pay.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings.
- Select General.
- Click on Language & Region
- Choose a region where Apple Pay is available, such as the US or the UK, and then click Done.
- Restart your iPhone, and Apple Pay should function properly.
4. Disable VPN
Disable your VPN and check if you can use Apple Pay to send money. If the issue persists, try an alternative method.
- Navigate to General in the iPhone settings menu.
- Scroll down and select VPN.
- Toggle the switch to turn off the VPN.
- Attempt to use Apple Pay again to see if the problem is resolved.
Click on “VPN and Device Management” as you scroll down
5. Log out and Log in With Apple
Access iCloud through your iPhone settings.
“If you wish to retain your notes, Safari history, and other data on your phone, iCloud will prompt you. Choose ‘Delete from my iPhone.’ Wait for a few moments before restarting your iPhone. Once completed, attempt to use Apple Pay by logging into iCloud once again.”
6. Reset Your iPhone Device
“Try restoring your device’s settings to default if you accidentally made any changes that caused the issue. For that, you need to follow these steps:
- Select General from the settings menu.
- On the next page, scroll to the bottom and click Reset.
- Select Erase All Content and Settings, the second option from the top, on the next page.”
7. Update iOS
“In most cases, iOS updates are incredibly useful, enhancing your iPhone’s stability, security, and adding new features. However, some updates may introduce bugs that can cause issues. While the majority of iOS updates are trouble-free, occasionally, they may result in unforeseen problems. The Apple Pay issue you’re experiencing could be linked to the latest iOS version installed on your iPhone.
If this is the case and you cannot find an immediate solution, your best course of action is to wait for Apple to address the problem in a future update.
To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If a new update is available, install it, and then check to see if the problem persists.”
8. Verify your Identity
“To send money with Apple Cash, you need to verify your identity. If you haven’t already done so, here’s how to verify your Apple ID:
- Open the Wallet app, tap the three-dotted menus, and then tap your Apple Cash card.
- Select “Verify Identity.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
You may be required to provide the following personal information to confirm your Apple ID:
- Full name
- Social security number
- Date of birth
- Home address
- Answers to questions about your personal history
- A photo of your state ID card or an active driver’s license
Keep in mind that Apple typically doesn’t accept passports for verification, so you’ll need to provide an alternative document.”
9. Use the Cellular Data for Apple Wallet
“The majority of the time, if you haven’t connected your Apple Wallet to cellular data, you’ll encounter difficulty with Apple Pay services. Follow the steps below to use Apple Wallet with cellular data:
- Click on Settings.
- Choose Cellular.
- Visit the Apple Wallet application.
- Turn it on and use the cellular data for it.
- Check the Servers’ Status
There’s a possibility that a server failure is an actual reason Apple Pay services are down. Although rare, these situations do occur occasionally. You can do nothing if the Apple Pay servers are offline other than wait for Apple to fix the problem. Fortunately, server problems don’t last very long, as Apple responds quickly to any possible issues.”
Conclusion
“I hope you were able to resolve the issue of “Apple Pay services are currently unavailable” while sending payments. If you are still facing trouble, it’s advisable to contact Apple Support. Please share in the comments which solution worked for you or if the problem has been resolved.”