Use this when a Toast card reader or handheld will not take payments. Follow the quick flow first, then the targeted fixes.

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Start Here: Quick Flow

1. Confirm the issue: not pairing, not detected, tap/chip failing, or payments timing out.
2. Check power and connections: reader charged and on, cable seated, Bluetooth enabled.
3. Restart sequence: reader off → tablet restart → reader on.
4. Try the targeted fix for the symptom below.
5. Run a $0.10 test authorization if possible. If still failing, escalate to MoD. </aside>

Locate Settings and Status

• Toast app status: Menu bar → Device Setup → Card Reader
• Bluetooth pairing: Android/iOS system Bluetooth menu
• Network: Wi‑Fi icon → confirm “Toast” or venue network connected and stable

Reader Not Detected by Toast

• Ensure reader is ON and has battery
• Toggle tablet Bluetooth OFF then ON
• Forget the reader in system Bluetooth, then re-pair in Toast: Device Setup → Add Reader
• Power cycle both: reader off, tablet restart, reader on

Tap Fails but Chip Works

• Ensure contactless is enabled in Toast settings
• Ask guest to remove phone case or try card instead of mobile wallet
• Hold card flat on contactless logo for 1–2 seconds
• Clean the reader surface lightly and retry

Chip Fails or Says “Insert Again”

• Inspect chip for damage, wipe with dry cloth