How do I fix a failed payment in Google Ads?

To fix a failed payment in Google Ads, you'll want to take a few quick steps to get your ads running again and avoid account holds. Here's exactly how to handle it:

🔧 Step-by-Step: Fix a Failed Payment
✅ 1. Find Out Why the Payment Failed
Go to:

Google Ads Dashboard → Billing → Summary

Look for a red alert or error message. Common reasons include:

Card declined by the bank

Insufficient funds

Expired card

Mismatch in billing info

💳 2. Fix or Replace the Payment Method
Go to:

Tools & Settings → Billing → Payment Methods

Do one of the following:

Update the existing card: Make sure the expiration date, billing address, and CVV are correct.

Add a new card or payment method:

Click "Add payment method"

Enter new card or bank info

Set it as Primary

🔁 3. Manually Retry the Payment
Once your payment method is fixed:

Go to Billing → Summary

Click "Make a Payment"

Select the updated method

Submit payment manually to clear the balance

This can often immediately reactivate your account and restart your ads.

📞 4. Call Your Bank or Card Issuer
If your card still isn't working, call your bank and ask:

"Can you allow charges from GOOGLE ADS or GOOGLE*SERVICES?"

They may have blocked it due to:

Suspicious activity

International charge restrictions

Limits on online transactions

🚨 5. Resolve Any Account Hold or Suspension
If your account is on hold:

Go to Billing > Settings

Look for "Fix payment issue" or a red warning

Complete any steps Google asks (e.g., verify info or clear debt)

Once the payment goes through, your ads will typically restart automatically within a few hours.

🛠� Still Not Working?
Try a different payment method (e.g., another credit/debit card)

Or use a bank account (ACH) — reliable, but takes 3–5 days to verify

Need Help?
Let me know:

What payment method you're using

The exact error message you're seeing

Your country (Google's accepted payment methods vary by region)