Have you ever seen the message “unable to send message message blocking is active” pop up on your phone and wondered what it means? You are not alone. This common error message confuses many users around the world. It usually shows up when you try to send a text message and it doesn’t go through. But what exactly causes it, and how can you fix it?
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In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the error “unable to send message message blocking is active.” We will cover what it means, why it happens, how to fix it, and how to prevent it in the future. Whether you are using an Android phone, an iPhone, or a specific carrier like T-Mobile or Verizon, this guide will help you understand and resolve the issue. Let’s get started.
What Does “Unable To Send Message Message Blocking Is Active” Mean?
When you see the message “unable to send message message blocking is active,” it means your phone is not allowed to send text messages to the number you are trying to contact. This block can be caused by your phone settings, your mobile carrier, or the person you are trying to reach.

In simple words, something is stopping your message from being sent. The block can be on your side, the other person’s side, or from the service provider.
Main Causes of the Error
1. Message Blocking Is Enabled on Your Account
Sometimes your mobile carrier has message blocking enabled for your number. This means you cannot send or receive text messages.
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2. You Blocked the Recipient (or They Blocked You)
If you blocked the number you are trying to message, or if they blocked you, you will see this error.
3. Premium SMS Is Disabled
Some messages, like voting or donations, use premium SMS. If premium messaging is turned off, you can’t send these types of messages.
4. Carrier or Plan Restrictions
Some phone plans or carriers block certain messages. For example, if your plan doesn’t support texting short codes, you might get this error.
5. Network or SIM Card Issues
If your SIM card is damaged or not activated properly, your phone may not be able to send texts.
6. Using the Wrong Messaging App
Sometimes third-party messaging apps may not be allowed to send messages due to permission or compatibility issues.
How To Fix “Unable To Send Message Message Blocking Is Active”
Here are the top ways to fix this error. Try them one by one until your problem is solved.
1. Check If the Number Is Blocked
Go to your phone settings and look at the blocked numbers list. If the number you are trying to reach is listed, unblock it.
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2. Contact Your Carrier
Call your mobile service provider (like T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon) and ask if message blocking is turned on. They can remove the block.
3. Enable Premium SMS
Go to your messaging settings and enable premium SMS access for your default messaging app.
4. Reset Network Settings
Resetting your network settings can fix any hidden network issues.
Steps to Reset Network Settings (Android):
- Open Settings
- Tap System > Reset options
- Tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth
Steps to Reset Network Settings (iPhone):
- Open Settings
- Tap General > Reset > Reset Network Settings
5. Try a Different Messaging App
Download and try a different messaging app like Google Messages. Sometimes this solves compatibility issues.
6. Reinsert the SIM Card
Turn off your phone, take out the SIM card, wait a few seconds, and insert it again.
7. Make Sure Your Plan Includes Texting
Some prepaid or data-only plans don’t include SMS. Check with your provider to confirm your plan allows text messages.
8. Turn Off Any Parental Controls
If parental controls are turned on, they may block some types of messages. Turn them off or adjust the settings.
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9. Enable SMS Settings Manually
Go to your messaging settings and check if SMS is enabled. If it’s disabled by mistake, the error can show up.
10. Clear Messaging App Cache
Sometimes the app cache causes problems. Clearing it can help.
Steps for Android:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Messages > Storage
- Tap “Clear Cache”
Device-Specific Fixes
Android Users
- Clear your default messaging app cache and data
- Update your messaging app
- Check for system updates
- Switch to Google Messages if needed
iPhone Users
- Make sure iMessage is turned off if you’re sending to non-iPhone users
- Check if “Send as SMS” is enabled in Settings > Messages
- Update to the latest iOS version
- Reset iMessage and SMS settings
Carrier-Specific Troubleshooting
T-Mobile
T-Mobile is known for this issue. You can text HELP to 611 to check for message blocking. If you’re using a new SIM, call customer service.
Verizon
Log in to your Verizon account and check for message blocking under account settings. You can also check Smart Family settings.
AT&T
Check your Smart Limits if you’re using them. Sometimes message blocking is turned on by mistake. You can also use the AT&T app to manage restrictions.
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Sprint and Boost Mobile
Ensure your plan includes texting. Contact support if your account is new or recently changed.
Prevention Tips
- Do not block numbers unless necessary
- Keep your phone and messaging apps updated
- Regularly check your carrier settings
- Use messaging apps that support all message types
- Avoid installing suspicious third-party apps
- Enable SMS and premium messaging in settings
- Always review your mobile plan’s features
Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Maria tried to message her friend but kept getting the error. She found out her plan had no texting. After upgrading, the error went away.
Example 2: John blocked his cousin last year and forgot. When he tried to message again, he saw the message blocking error. He unblocked the number, and it worked.
Example 3: Ali was using a third-party SMS app that didn’t support premium messages. Switching back to the default app fixed the problem.
Example 4: Sara’s child had parental controls set up that blocked unknown numbers. Once those settings were adjusted, messages could be sent again.
Why This Error Is Confusing for Users

The message “unable to send message message blocking is active” is not very clear. Many people think it means their phone is broken, or the other person is ignoring them. In reality, it usually means something is blocked or restricted, and it’s often an easy fix.
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Is It a Security Issue?
No, this error is not a sign of hacking or spying. It’s usually caused by simple settings or carrier controls.
When to Ask for Help
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t send messages:
- Contact your carrier
- Visit a phone store
- Ask a tech-savvy friend
- Post in support forums or communities
Related Terms and Variations of the Error
- Message not sent error
- SMS blocking active
- Text message failed to send
- Message delivery error
- Messaging blocked by settings
FAQs
Why do I get “unable to send message message blocking is active” on every message?
It could mean your carrier has disabled messaging on your account or your plan doesn’t include SMS.
How can I check if someone blocked me?
You may not be able to tell directly. But if you only get the error when texting one number, you might be blocked.
Can a blocked number still call you?
No. If you blocked someone, they cannot call or text you.
Does this error mean I have no service?
Not always. You might have signal but still get the error due to account restrictions or app issues.
Will switching phones fix this?
Only if the error is related to the device or app. If it’s a carrier issue, switching phones won’t help.
Conclusion
The error “unable to send message message blocking is active” is frustrating, but it’s often easy to fix. Now that you understand what causes it and how to solve it, you can avoid it in the future. Whether it’s a blocked number, a setting, or a carrier issue, the steps above should help you get back to texting without problems. Stay connected and informed by checking your settings and reaching out for help when needed.
By following the fixes, prevention tips, and understanding real-world examples, you’ll be more prepared the next time this error appears.