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Troubleshoot connection on Square Reader for magstripe

When Square Reader for magstripe is properly connected to your device, you should be able to accept swiped card payments.

Learn how to set up Square Reader for magstripe.

Before you begin troubleshooting

  • Make sure you are using a supported device with your Square Reader for magstripe. Check your device’s compatibility.

  • Make sure your Square POS app and your device’s software are both updated to the latest version

Some phone cases prevent the reader from plugging in completely. You may need to remove your phone case to use the reader.

If you have pending offline payments, do not delete the Square POS app. Pending offline payments will be permanently lost, and the funds won’t be captured. Learn how to process offline payments with Square.

Troubleshoot the connection on your Square Reader for magstripe

  1. Unplug your Square Reader for magstripe from your mobile device and plug it back in.

  2. Temporarily disable Bluetooth on your mobile device.

    • Open the Settings app on your device.

    • Tap Bluetooth and toggle it OFF then back ON.

  3. Delete and reinstall the Square POS app on your device

    • Deleting and reinstalling the app will have no impact on your Square account or completed payments, and none of your data will be lost, because it’s stored on Square’s servers. See Apple support or Google support for instructions.

    • Once you’ve deleted the app, you can access all of your account information by reinstalling and logging back in to your account with your existing email address and password.

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