5 Must-Know Tips to Solve POS Problems in Minutes

Maverick Technology • July 30, 2025

We understand how important it is to keep your POS running without a hitch. That’s why we’ve put together simple, step-by-step solutions for the most common issues so you can fix minor problems quickly and avoid unnecessary downtime. Next time something comes up, try these quick tips to get back to business in no time.


1. Transactions Declining or Failing

What you're seeing:

Transactions won’t go through, or show “declined.”

What it means:

This usually indicates a network issue — your system may not be communicating with the payment gateway or internet.

Quick fixes:

  • Test Wi-Fi on another device
  • Restart the POS or router
  • Confirm your POS software is up to date
  • Switch to 4G backup (if available)

When to escalate:

  • If offline mode doesn’t activate
  • Frequent connection drops


2. Slow or Frozen POS Screen

What you're seeing:

Touchscreen is unresponsive, frozen, or lagging.

What it means:

Memory overload, too many apps open, or background syncing issues.

Quick fixes:

  • Force-close unnecessary apps
  • Restart the POS device
  • Check for software updates
  • Disable background sync temporarily

When to call support:

  • If freezes happen daily
  • If POS doesn't boot up after restart


3. Printer Not Working or Paper Jam

What you're seeing:

No receipts, paper stuck, or paper cutting issues.

What it means:

Paper roll incorrectly loaded, incorrect thermal roll, or jammed mechanism.

Quick fixes:

  • Reload thermal paper correctly (curl away from screen)
  • Restart the printer module
  • Check for debris in feed
  • Replace with a new roll if paper is discolored or curled

When to call support:

  • If printer doesn’t respond or makes grinding noises


4. Card Not Accepted / Contactless Not Working

What you're seeing:

Tap to pay not responding or certain cards fail.

What it means:

Outdated terminal software, faulty NFC reader, or unsupported card type.

Quick fixes:

  • Try inserting/swiping instead of tapping
  • Check network connection
  • Restart terminal
  • Ask customer for alternate card

When to escalate:

  • If contactless fails across all cards
  • NFC reader error appears consistently


5. Receipts Are Too Faint or Blank

What you're seeing:

You get a printed receipt, but it’s unreadable or patchy.

What it means:

The thermal print-head may be dirty or worn, paper is incorrectly loaded.

Quick fixes:

  • Replace thermal paper (not regular paper)
  • Clean printer head with a soft dry cloth
  • Try flipping the paper roll

What to do next:

  • If none of the above solves the issue, change print-head or recommend replacing printer.


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