How to Fix WhatsApp Messages Not Delivering (Stuck on One Tick)
Sent a message but it's stuck on a single grey tick? This guide explains what that means and provides clear, step-by-step solutions to fix message delivery issues on WhatsApp for both Android and iOS.
A single grey tick on WhatsApp means your message has been successfully sent from your device but has not yet been delivered to the recipient's device. A double grey tick indicates delivery, and double blue ticks indicate it has been read. Seeing only one tick for a prolonged period points to a problem on the recipient's end or a communication breakdown between devices.
Common Causes:
- Recipient is Offline: The most common reason. Their phone is off, has no internet, or is in airplane mode.
- You Have Been Blocked: If a user blocks you, your messages will permanently show a single tick.
- Recipient's App/Phone Issues: The recipient's phone might have background data restrictions or other software problems.
- Network Issues: Cellular or Wi-Fi problems can delay delivery even if the message is sent.
- WhatsApp Server Issues: In rare cases, a problem with WhatsApp's servers can delay message delivery.
1. Check Your Own Connection First
Ensure your own internet connection is stable. Although one tick means the message was sent, a weak connection can sometimes cause delays in updating the status.
- Try opening a web page or another app to confirm your internet is working.
- Toggle between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if it makes a difference.
2. Check if You Have Been Blocked
WhatsApp makes this intentionally subtle for privacy reasons, but there are a few clues.
- Check their Profile Picture: If you can no longer see their profile picture (and you could before), you may be blocked.
- Check their "Last Seen" or "Online" Status: You will not see their status if you are blocked.
- Try a WhatsApp Call: Any calls you make to them will not go through.
- If all these are true and your messages stay on one tick, you are likely blocked. There is no fix for this; the recipient must unblock you.
3. Wait Patiently (The Recipient May Be Offline)
Often, the simplest answer is the correct one. The recipient's phone might be off, out of battery, or without an internet connection.
- There's nothing to do here but wait. The message will be delivered as soon as their device comes back online.
- Avoid sending multiple follow-up messages, as it won't speed up the process.
4. Check for WhatsApp Server Issues
If messages to multiple contacts are stuck on one tick, the problem might be with WhatsApp itself.
- Visit a service like Downdetector to see if other users are reporting an outage.
- If WhatsApp is down, you must wait for their team to resolve the issue.
Do not download third-party apps that claim to tell you who has blocked you or when someone is online. These apps violate WhatsApp's terms of service, are a major security risk, and can get your account banned.