Not receiving OTP (One-Time Password) messages on your Android phone can be extremely frustrating—especially when you’re trying to log in, make payments, or verify an account. The network signal may be strong, but the OTP SMS never arrives.
I personally faced this issue while trying to log in to a banking app. Calls and normal messages were working, but OTP messages were not coming at all. After checking SIM settings and message permissions, I was able to fix the issue without changing my SIM card or phone.
In this article, I’ll explain why OTP messages don’t arrive on Android and share fixes that actually work.
How OTP Message Problems Usually Appear
You may notice:
- OTP SMS not received from banks or apps
- OTP delayed by several minutes
- OTP works on another phone with same SIM
- Incoming calls work but SMS doesn’t
This usually points to SMS, network, or app-level restrictions.
Common Reasons Android Phones Don’t Receive OTP Messages
1. Network or Signal Issues
Weak or fluctuating network affects OTP delivery.
2. SMS App Restrictions or Permission Issues
Default SMS app may not have proper permissions.
3. Spam Filter Blocking OTP Messages
Some phones automatically block OTP SMS as spam.
4. SIM Toolkit or Carrier Issues
Carrier-side problems can stop OTP delivery.
5. SMS Storage Full
When message storage is full, new SMS won’t arrive.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Restart Your Phone
This refreshes network and SMS services.
I always try this first, and it fixes the issue many times.
Method 2: Check Network Signal and Switch Modes
OTP requires a stable network.
Try this:
- Switch from 4G/5G to 3G temporarily
- Turn Airplane mode ON for 30 seconds
- Turn it OFF and try again
This forces network re-registration.
Method 3: Check SMS App Permissions
This fix worked for me.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Open your SMS app
- Tap Permissions
- Allow SMS, Phone, Contacts
- Restart phone
Without proper permission, OTP messages can be blocked.
Method 4: Disable SMS Spam Filter
Spam filters sometimes block OTPs.
What to do:
- Open SMS app settings
- Turn off spam protection
- Check blocked messages folder
Many OTPs land there silently.
Method 5: Clear SMS App Cache
Corrupted cache can block incoming messages.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps → SMS app
- Tap Storage
- Clear Cache (not data)
This does not delete messages.
Method 6: Check SMS Storage Space
If message storage is full:
- Delete old messages
- Clear promotional SMS
- Restart phone
New OTPs won’t arrive if storage is full.
Method 7: Try SIM in Another Phone
This helps identify the real issue.
- If OTP arrives on another phone → phone issue
- If OTP still doesn’t arrive → SIM or carrier issue
Contact your carrier if needed.
Why OTP Works for Some Apps but Not Others
Some apps:
- Use different SMS gateways
- Require better signal quality
- Are blocked by spam filters
That’s why OTP issues may appear selectively.
What You Should Avoid
- Installing third-party SMS apps unnecessarily
- Blocking unknown numbers blindly
- Using aggressive spam blocker apps
- Resetting phone without trying basic fixes
FAQs
Can Do Not Disturb block OTP messages?
No, but some custom SMS filters can.
Does changing SMS app help?
Yes, setting the default SMS app again can help.
Is this issue phone-specific?
Often yes, not SIM-related.
Should I change SIM card?
Only if carrier confirms SIM issue.
Final Thoughts
If your Android phone is not receiving OTP messages, the problem is usually related to SMS permissions, spam filtering, or network configuration—not a major hardware fault.
From my experience, allowing SMS permissions and disabling spam filtering fixed the issue instantly. Always try software-level fixes before changing SIM cards.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.