If you keep getting errors when trying to purchase tickets on Ticketmaster, there are a few common reasons why this might happen. The good news is that there are usually some steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix many Ticketmaster errors.
You have too many browsers/devices open
One of the most common reasons for Ticketmaster errors is having too many browsers or devices trying to access your account at the same time. Ticketmaster limits the number of browsers that can be open for a single account, as a security precaution. If you’re trying to buy tickets on your laptop, while also having the Ticketmaster app open on your phone, you may run into errors. Try closing out of the app or any other browsers, so you only have one device/browser accessing your Ticketmaster account at a time.
There are too many people using your account
Similarly, if you have multiple people all trying to use the same Ticketmaster account to buy tickets, this can also lead to errors. Ticketmaster restricts the number of users that can be logged into one account simultaneously. Have each person log into their own Ticketmaster account to purchase tickets separately to avoid overload errors.
You need to clear your cookies/cache
Outdated cookies and cached data can sometimes cause issues with Ticketmaster loading properly. Try clearing your browser history, cookies, and cache before attempting to purchase tickets again. This refreshes your browser and clears out any corrupted data that could be causing errors.
There was a glitch during high traffic times
For very popular events, there is often a rush of traffic all trying to buy tickets at the same time right when sales open. This high traffic volume can occasionally cause glitches or crashes on the Ticketmaster website. If you get an error when trying to purchase in-demand tickets right as sales open, try waiting a few minutes and retry the purchase. The brief glitch may resolve once initial traffic volumes die down.
The event is sold out
In some cases, an error message means the tickets you were hoping to buy are already sold out. Ticketmaster will display various errors when no tickets are remaining, as their system prevents you from purchasing tickets that are no longer available. If it’s a high-demand event that just went on sale, double check the Ticketmaster app or social media channels to see if the event has sold out.
There are still tickets left but not in your preferred section
Similarly, if you are searching for tickets in a very specific section or seat location, you may get errors if that particular area has sold out, even if tickets still remain available in other sections. Try broadening your search or removing filters for specific sections/seats. As long as you still see listings available for the event there are still tickets remaining, just not in the precise area you initially selected.
You have multiple tabs open for the same event
To cover all bases, some buyers will open multiple browser tabs and try to purchase tickets in each one. However, Ticketmaster’s system recognizes when duplicate cart attempts are made for the same account, and will present errors. Stick to one browser tab at a time when purchasing, and avoid duplicating efforts by opening multiple tabs.
There was a technical error on Ticketmaster’s end
Despite best efforts, websites can still have intermittent technical issues on their back end. Periodically, Ticketmaster deals with a technical error on their servers that prevents purchases from going through. Try again after some time has passed, as these problems are usually resolved quickly. Check Ticketmaster’s social accounts or help center for any notices about known technical issues.
Your payment information is not valid
One of the simplest explanations for persistent Ticketmaster errors is that your payment method on file is outdated or no longer valid. For example, if your credit card expired and you have not updated the details, it will be declined. Or, if you have insufficient funds in your connected PayPal account or bank account. Double check that your default payment profile is up to date in your Ticketmaster account with valid, accurate info.
There was suspicious activity on your account
Ticketmaster has security measures in place to flag suspicious purchasing patterns or account activity. If your account gets flagged for potential fraud, Ticketmaster may prevent further purchases until you verify your identity. Check your email inbox for any notifications from Ticketmaster about suspicious login attempts, and contact customer service right away if your account may have been compromised.
Your Ticketmaster account is blocked
In some cases of suspected fraudulent activity, Ticketmaster may temporarily block your account altogether. You will be unable to make any ticket purchases while your account is blocked. Check your email and account notifications to see if your account has been blocked due to suspicious activity that requires further verification. Contact Ticketmaster customer service to resolve the issue.
Your account recently changed locations
If you normally access your Ticketmaster account from one geographic location, then try to login or make purchases from a different unknown area, it can trigger security alerts. For example, if you created your account while living in New York, then try to buy tickets while on vacation in Europe, Ticketmaster may block that purchase. Verify your identity or update your account with travel notices to avoid location errors.
You’re using a VPN or proxy server
Accessing Ticketmaster from behind a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or proxy server can also trigger security blocks, as your true IP address and location are hidden. Disable any VPN services before attempting to purchase tickets if you encounter errors. Ticketmaster may ban accounts permanently if suspicious VPN activity continues.
There are internet connectivity issues
Before blaming Ticketmaster errors entirely on their platform, double check that there are no issues with your own internet connection. Slow speeds, bandwidth restrictions, or dropped WiFi signals can all interfere with making a smooth ticket purchase. Try another high-speed internet connection or cellular data if available.
The Ticketmaster site is down for maintenance
Ticketmaster will occasionally take their sites and apps down for routine maintenance and updates. This can lead to errors if you try accessing it during downtime windows. Check Ticketmaster’s notifications on their homepage or on social media to see if any planned maintenance is occurring. Try again later once maintenance is complete.
You need to verify your account
If Ticketmaster suspects an account may have been hacked or taken over by an unauthorized user, they will require identity verification before allowing further access. You may need to provide additional proof of identity before the account is restored. Follow any prompts to upload your ID or other documentation requested.
Your account was permanently banned
In severe cases of Terms of Service violations, suspected fraud, or abuse, Ticketmaster does reserve the right to permanently ban accounts altogether. Once an account is completely banned, you will continually get errors and be denied access. Make sure you thoroughly read and understand Ticketmaster’s Terms of Use to avoid risking a permanent ban.
What to do when you get a Ticketmaster error
Whenever you run into an error code or message on Ticketmaster, here are some tips for troubleshooting:
- Take a screenshot of the exact error message you are getting
- Note what action triggered the error (searching for tickets, selecting seats, paying, etc)
- Try again in a few minutes in case it is a temporary glitch
- Clear browser cookies, history, and cache then retry
- Try a different web browser or device
- Double check all info entered is accurate (event, dates, quantities, payment details, etc)
- Contact Ticketmaster Fan Support with your error details for further help
How to avoid Ticketmaster errors
While occasional Ticketmaster errors are hard to avoid completely, here are some tips to help prevent them:
- Only open one browser window/tab at a time when buying tickets
- Make sure your Ticketmaster account payment information is up to date
- Don’t open too many other tabs or programs that can slow connectivity
- Avoid trying to buy tickets across multiple devices simultaneously
- Check event details carefully to ensure correct info is entered
- Be patient and don’t rush through the ticket buying process too quickly
- Use a stable, high-speed internet connection rather than public WiFi
- Completely log out of your Ticketmaster account after finishing purchases
By following these troubleshooting steps and prevention tips, many common Ticketmaster errors can be quickly resolved or avoided altogether. With some patience and careful entering of info, you should be able to snag those coveted tickets successfully!