My ad account shows an unpaid balance and is restricted

Clear the unpaid balance first, using Pay now in Billing and payments if Meta offers it. Ads usually resume once the balance is paid. If the account stays restricted, request a review in Account Quality.

By the Ads Account Recovery team · Published 30 October 2026 · Last updated 30 October 2026

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Do this now

Open Billing and payments.
Use Pay now if available.
Wait for the payment to show.
Check Account Quality.
Request a review if still restricted.

What to write

"The balance on [ID] was paid on [date]. The account is still restricted."

Deadlines

Pay the balance soon. Unpaid balances can lead to wider restrictions.

What to avoid

Removing the card to avoid the charge.

Official sources

Meta changes its help pages, menus and forms often. Follow the wording on your own screen and the current Help Center. Ads Account Recovery is an independent service and is not affiliated with Meta.

YOUR QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

How long until ads run?

Meta does not publish a fixed time.

Can I use another card?

If Meta offers it.

Who decides?

Meta makes the final decision.

Want help with your ad account?

Send the notice you see and the ad account ID on WhatsApp or email. You hear whether we can help. Never send a password or a login code.

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