How do I fix a failed payment in Google Ads?

Fixing a failed payment in Google Ads is usually straightforward — and it's super important because ads can pause automatically when payments fail. Here's how to get it sorted:

🔧 Step-by-Step Fix for a Failed Payment
✅ 1. Check the Reason for the Failure
Go to: Google Ads > Billing > Summary

You'll see a red message if a payment failed.

Hover over the alert or click it — Google often gives the exact reason (e.g., "card declined," "insufficient funds," etc.)

💳 2. Fix or Update the Payment Method
Go to: Tools & Settings > Billing > Payment Methods

Check if:

The card has expired

Billing address matches your bank

You entered the correct CVV, card number, etc.

Fix:

Click "Fix" next to the failed method

Or add a new card and set it as Primary

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

Go to Billing > Summary

Click "Make a Payment"

Choose the right method and submit

💡 This often resolves the issue immediately.

📞 4. Call Your Bank (If Still Failing)
If the card is still being declined:

Call your bank and ask:

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

Common bank reasons:

Blocked online/international payments

Suspicious activity flag

Low balance or spend limit hit

🛑 5. Check for Account Holds or Suspensions
If your ads were paused or your account is on hold:

You'll see it at the top of your dashboard

Go to Billing > Settings and click "Fix payment issue"

Once the payment is successful, your ads should resume automatically.

🧰 Backup Plan:
If all else fails...

Try a different credit/debit card

Or set up a bank account (ACH) payment method (takes longer to verify but works well long-term)

🚨 Important:
Google charges you either:

When you hit your billing threshold

Or at the end of your monthly billing cycle
So make sure you have an active payment method before either of those happens.