Troubleshoot 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 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 protective cases prevent the reader from plugging into your device completely. You may need to remove your device's protective case to use the reader.

Some adapters can disrupt the connection between your Square Reader for magstripe and your device. Although the USB-C to headset jack adapter manufactured by Apple is compatible, we are unable to guarantee compatibility with other third-party adapters. Square no longer sells this adapter after the release of Square Reader for magstripe (USB-C, v3). Learn how to identify your Square hardware.

Troubleshoot connecting 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. When plugging the reader into your Apple device, you may be asked to identify the reader by choosing either Headphones or Other device.

   • Select Headphones to allow the reader to connect.

   • If you selected Other device, unplug the reader from your device and navigate to your iOS Settings app and tap Sounds > Headphone Safety > USB Audio Accessories > Forget All USB Audio Accessories.

   • Navigate back to the Square POS app and plug your reader into your mobile device.

   • When you see the pop-up again, select Headphones.

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

Troubleshoot accepting payments on your Square Reader for magstripe

If your device displays an “Insert Chip Card” error when you swipe a card, follow the steps below:

1. Open your Square POS app.

2. Tap ≡ More > Settings > Checkout.

3. Tap Swipe chip cards and toggle ON Swipe Chip Cards.

4. Review the liability warning and tap Allow Chip Cards to Be Swiped.

If your Square Reader for magstripe is properly connected to your device but you are still experiencing issues accepting payments, follow the steps below:

1. Swipe the card through the reader slowly and consistently - the slower, the better.

2. Make sure the black magnetic stripe is facing away from the Square logo, towards the thickest part of the reader.

3. Keep the card flush along the base of the reader for the entire duration, and make sure it doesn't become angled.

4. Try swiping the card in both directions–forward and backwards.

5. Try to swipe a different card. If a different card is successful, then the first card might have a damaged or worn magnetic stripe that is preventing the Square Reader from reading it.

Related articles

• Troubleshoot the Square POS apps

• Warranty or return your Square hardware

• Troubleshoot failed payments on Square Point of Sale

• Prevent payment disputes