Troubleshoot common issues when you add a bank account

If you send an SMS to add your bank account to Google Pay and you encounter an issue, check your phone and SMS settings.

Turn on SMS

Send a test SMS. If it’s unsuccessful, check with your operator if you have an active outgoing SMS pack.

Tip: Some SMS recharge packs don't allow outgoing SMS. If you use a prepaid mobile service, check your plan details.

Insufficient balance

If you use a prepaid mobile service:

• To send a message: Confirm if you have the needed SMS balance.
• To check your balance: Follow the steps given by your operator.
• To check your balance with different operators, dial the following numbers:
  • Jio: 333#
  • BSNL: *123*1#
  • Airtel: *121*7#
  • MTNL: *123#
  • Tata: *111#
  • VI: *199*1*8#

Check network

To send or receive messages:

• Your phone must have good network coverage.
• Check if you have a network connection.

Dual SIM cards

Confirm that the number linked to your bank account is the one you use when you send SMS.

If you have a dual SIM phone:

• Make sure that you send the SMS with the number that’s linked to your bank account.
• If your SMS settings are set to “Ask every time,” set the SIM that you linked to your bank account as the primary SIM.
  1. Go to Network and settings.
  2. Select SIMs SMS.
  3. Change your SMS settings.

Reload your SMS Service Center (SMSC)

To make sure that your SMSC number is correct, reload it.

1. On your phone, dial *#*#4636#*#*.
2. Tap Phone information.
3. Under “SMSC,” tap Refresh.

Clear messaging app cache

1. On your mobile device, open the Settings app .
2. Tap Apps and notifications.
3. Select your messaging app.
4. Tap Storage Clear cache.

Issue still persists

Android device

Send an SMS at different times of the day. You can try four times per day.

Tip: If you encounter SMS issues after your first try, check if there are issues with your SIM card. Contact your operator.

iPhone and iPad

Send an SMS at different times of the day. You can try three times in 24 hours. If you try more than three times within 24 hours:

• Your account is blocked for the next 24 hours.
• You can’t use Google Pay.

Tip: If you encounter SMS issues after your first try, check if there are issues with your SIM card. Contact your operator.