Last updated: March 5, 2026
Facebook Messenger may fail to send messages, showing a red exclamation mark or a "Failed to send" error. Messages may also appear to be stuck in a "Sending" state indefinitely.
Internet connection issues: Messenger needs a stable connection to send and receive messages.
Outdated Messenger app: Older versions may have known bugs that affect message delivery.
Account restrictions: Your account may be temporarily restricted by Facebook for violating community standards.
Recipient has blocked you: If you've been blocked, your messages won't be delivered.
Server outage: Facebook's servers occasionally go down, affecting Messenger.
• Toggle Wi-Fi off and on, or switch to mobile data.
• Open a web browser and try loading a webpage to confirm your connection works.
• If the connection is weak, try moving to an area with better signal.
• Close the Messenger app completely.
• On Android: Settings > Apps > Messenger > Force Stop.
• On iPhone: Swipe up and close Messenger from the app switcher.
• Reopen Messenger and try sending the message again.
• Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
• Search for "Messenger" and tap Update if available.
• Open the updated app and retry sending your message.
• Go to Settings > Apps > Messenger > Storage.
• Tap "Clear Cache" (do not tap "Clear Data" as this will log you out).
• Reopen Messenger and try again.
• Visit downdetector.com and search for Facebook or Messenger.
• If there's a widespread outage, wait for Facebook to fix the issue.
• Outages are usually resolved within a few hours.
• Uninstall Messenger from your device.
• Restart your phone.
• Reinstall from the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Log in and try sending messages again.
If you've tried all the fixes and still can't send messages, visit the Facebook Help Center at facebook.com/help. You can report a problem directly through the Messenger app by going to Settings > Report a Problem.
Q: Why do my messages show a single grey check mark?
A: A single grey check means the message was sent but not yet delivered. The recipient may be offline or may have turned off notifications.
Q: What does the red exclamation mark mean?
A: The red exclamation mark means the message failed to send. Tap the message and select "Retry" to attempt sending it again.
Q: Can I send messages if my Facebook account is deactivated?
A: Yes, you can still use Messenger even if your Facebook account is deactivated, as long as you didn't deactivate Messenger separately.
Q: How do I know if someone blocked me on Messenger?
A: If you've been blocked, you won't be able to see their profile picture, online status, or send them messages. The chat will appear differently than usual.