# Why can't I post on Facebook? Every cause and how to fix it

Canonical: https://postmesh.app/blog/why-cant-i-post-on-facebook

By PostMesh team. Published 2026-10-31; updated 2026-10-31.

If Facebook won't publish your post, it's usually one of four things: a restriction on your account, a group or Page setting that blocks or holds the post, a security lock, or an upload or app problem. Open Account Status (profile picture, then Help and support) and your Support Inbox first, because they tell you which one it is.

When a Facebook post won't go through, the clue is often vague. The Post button greys out, the upload spins, or the post seems to publish and then vanishes. Facebook's Help Centre describes more than a dozen separate reasons, and each needs a different fix. This guide goes through them one at a time, using only what Facebook's own help pages say, and starts with the two screens that tell you what's actually wrong.

## The short answer

Check Account Status and your Support Inbox first. If either shows a warning, a removed post or a restriction, that's your cause, and the fix is to wait for it to end or request a review. If both are clear, the problem is local to where you're posting (a group's rules or a Page's settings) or technical (the file, the app or the browser). Use this table to match what you see to the likely cause.

| What you see | Most likely cause | Where to check | What to do |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| A message that you can't post, comment or share for a while | A temporary block for a Community Standards violation, spam signals or posting too fast | Account Status and Support Inbox | Wait for the block to end, or request a review if you think it's wrong |
| Your post disappeared and you got a notice | Facebook removed it under its Community Standards | The notice in your Feed, or Support Inbox | Request a review from the notice if the option appears |
| You can't post in one group but can post everywhere else | An admin suspended or limited you, the group is paused, or posts need approval | The group's own notice, then Support Inbox | Read the group's rules and message, then ask an admin |
| Your group post is pending | Post approval, participation approval or an automatic flag | The pending label on your post | Wait for an admin, or edit the post if it breaks a rule |
| You can't post as your Page | The wrong access type, an unpublished Page, a Page restriction or missing authorization | Page Status and Page access | Fix the access, republish the Page or confirm your identity |
| Facebook asks you to confirm your identity | Your account was locked after unusual activity | The prompt when you log in | Select Get started and follow the steps |
| The photo or video upload fails | File type, file size, connection, app version or an ad blocker | Your device and the file | Use JPEG, PNG, MP4 or MOV, update the app, try another browser |
| A scheduled post never went out | Lost Page access, a system error or a tool that can't reach the destination | Meta Business Suite's Scheduled tab, or your scheduler's results | Restore access, then publish it manually or retry |

**Did Facebook tell you anything when the post failed?**
- Yes: a warning, a removal notice or a block message → It's an enforcement action. Open Account Status to see the restriction and how long it lasts.
- It only fails in one group or on one Page → It's a local setting. Check the group's notice, or your Page Status and Page access.
- I was asked to log in again or confirm who I am → The account is locked or limited for security. Finish the prompts before you try to post.
- No message, it just won't upload or send → It's probably technical. Check the file, update the app and try a different browser.

*Start with what Facebook told you. Each answer points to a different section below.*

## How do I check if Facebook has restricted my account?

Facebook keeps enforcement information in two places: Account Status, which shows strikes and restrictions, and Support Inbox, which holds the messages Facebook has sent you. Check both before you change anything else.

### Open Account Status

Facebook's [Account Status help page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1392616391875085) describes it as the place to find out whether something you posted went against the Community Standards and whether that may lead to restrictions, such as features you can no longer use or your account being disabled. On a computer, click your profile picture in the top right of Facebook, select Help and support, then Account Status.

Facebook on a computer: Profile picture › Help and support › Account Status

*The path Facebook's help page gives for computers. The apps have their own versions of the page.*

According to that page, Account Status shows:

- The status of your main Facebook profile.
- The status of the things you manage, such as Pages and groups.
- Any restrictions on your profile or the things you manage, including Community Standards strikes, restrictions, limited monetization and your recommendations status.

Facebook's page on [what happens when it removes your content](https://www.facebook.com/help/260743102021762) adds that Account Status lists your history of violations, some of the restrictions on your account and how long they'll last. If you manage a Page or a group, you'll find similar information in Page Quality or Group Quality.

### Check your Support Inbox

Support Inbox holds your reports about others, account alerts and messages from Facebook. Per Facebook's [Support Inbox page](https://www.facebook.com/help/195906499396292), on a computer you click your profile picture in the top right, click Help and support, then Support Inbox. If you want messages for a group or Page you run, you need to be logged in as that admin.

Several of Facebook's help pages point here when something is blocked. The group posting page, the photo upload page and the limited access page all tell you to look in Support Inbox for details about your case.

### What these screens won't tell you

Neither screen is a complete log. Facebook says Page Status doesn't include every Community Standards or Page policy violation yet, and its [feature limits page](https://www.facebook.com/help/177066345680802) says it can't share details of the rate limits it enforces. So a clear Account Status doesn't rule out a short block for posting too fast, a group setting or a technical fault. If both screens are clear, work through the group, Page and technical sections below.

## Why did Facebook remove my post or block me from posting?

Facebook's blocks come in a few forms: a removed post, a restriction on your account, a temporary block on one feature, or a warning for spam. They overlap, so it helps to know the pattern Facebook describes.

### Your post went against the Community Standards

If your content goes against the Community Standards, Facebook removes it and notifies you. Facebook says the notice usually appears in your Feed when you log in, and you can also find it in Support Inbox. Where it can, Facebook references the part of the Community Standards you didn't follow and briefly explains why the content isn't allowed. Depending on which policy it was and your history, your account may also be restricted or disabled.

Facebook also says the number of times something is reported doesn't decide whether it's removed, according to its [page on reports](https://www.facebook.com/help/408181689281891). It applies the same guidelines each time. A post that's removed while similar posts stay up hasn't necessarily been mass-reported. It was reviewed against the same rules.

### How restrictions build up

Facebook's removal page describes an escalating pattern. Most first violations get a warning. Repeat violations can cost you access to features. If several of your posts are removed in a short period, Facebook places one short-term restriction rather than stacking them, but later removals keep adding restrictions.

- First violation: For most violations, Facebook gives you a warning first.
- Another violation: You may lose access to some features on Facebook, such as posting.
- Several removals at once: If several posts are removed in a short period, Facebook places only a short-term restriction.
- Later violations: Each new removal can add further restrictions to your account.
- One year later: The record of that warning or restriction expires from Account Status.

*How Facebook describes restrictions building up, from its page on content removal.*

Facebook keeps a record of warnings and restrictions in Account Status, and those records expire one year after you receive them. It also says that if it removed a post that didn't actually break the rules, it puts the post back and removes the restriction so it won't count against you later.

### You were blocked from sharing for a while

Facebook's [page on sharing blocks](https://www.facebook.com/help/986265348145792) lists three reasons for a temporary block from sharing posts:

- You posted a lot in a short amount of time.
- You shared posts that were marked as unwelcome.
- You shared something that goes against the Community Standards.

Facebook says it can't lift this kind of block early, but you can still view posts in your Feed while it lasts. Its advice for avoiding another one is to review the Community Standards.

### A feature block from Facebook's security systems

A separate page, [why you may be blocked from using features](https://www.facebook.com/help/116393198446749), covers blocks on posting, messaging and other tools. Facebook gives three triggers: something you posted or shared looked suspicious or abusive to its security systems, messages or friend requests you sent were marked unwelcome, or you did something that doesn't follow the Community Standards. The length of the block depends on how serious the violation was and on your history. Facebook's prevention advice is short: review the Community Standards, only message people you already know, and only send friend requests to people you know.

### You hit a rate limit

Facebook has limits to stop features being abused for spam and harassment. Its [feature limits page](https://www.facebook.com/help/177066345680802) says they're based on factors like speed and quantity, and that it can't provide details on the limits. Its two examples: sending an excessive number of messages to people you aren't friends with, and adding several people to a group in a short time. Either can lead to a warning or a temporary block on that feature.

### You were warned for spam

If you got a spam warning, Facebook's [spam warning page](https://www.facebook.com/help/152457281489359) says you may have done one of these:

- Sent friend requests to people you don't know in real life.
- Posted or shared something too quickly or too often in a short amount of time.
- Tagged or messaged people who aren't your friends.
- Sent someone a message or link that they marked as unwelcome.
- Contacted people for commercial purposes without their consent.

For the last one, Facebook's advice is to create a Facebook Page if you want to use Facebook for your business. The second item matters for anyone who shares the same update in many groups at once. If that's part of your routine, spread it out and adapt it for each place. Our guide on [whether cross-posting hurts engagement](/blog/does-cross-posting-hurt-engagement) covers how to vary one update across places.

## How long does a Facebook posting restriction last?

Facebook doesn't publish one number, because the length depends on the type of block. Here's everything its help pages say about timing, in one place.

| Situation | What Facebook says about timing |
| --- | --- |
| Temporary block from sharing | It can't be lifted early. |
| Block on a feature | The length depends on the severity of the violation and your history on Facebook. |
| Restriction after content was removed | Account Status shows some restrictions and how long they'll last. |
| Record of a warning or restriction | It expires one year after you received it. |
| Limited access because of malicious software | Your account should return to normal once the problem is fixed, which can take a few days. |
| Suspended personal account | You can appeal within 180 days. The appeal window varies by region. |
| Suspension in a group by an admin | The admin chooses how long it lasts. |
| Appeal of a removal in a group you admin | Content must be appealed within 30 days. Admins also have 30 days to appeal a disabled group. |

- 1 year: until a warning or restriction record expires from Account Status
- 180 days: to appeal a suspended personal account
- 30 days: for group admins to appeal a removal or a disabled group
- 15 MB: Facebook's recommended maximum size for a photo upload

*Sources: Facebook Help pages on content removal, suspended accounts, Group Quality and photo uploads.*

The one-year record comes from Facebook's [content removal page](https://www.facebook.com/help/260743102021762), the 180-day window from its [suspended accounts page](https://www.facebook.com/help/103873106370583), the 30-day group window from its [Group Quality page](https://www.facebook.com/help/584914935354562), and the 15 MB photo guidance from its [photo upload page](https://www.facebook.com/help/167931376599294).

> Don't open a second account to post while you're restricted. Facebook lists misrepresenting your identity to evade enforcement as one of the reasons it suspends or disables accounts.

## How do I request a review if Facebook got it wrong?

Facebook says it usually offers a way to request a review of decisions you disagree with, per its page [I don't think Facebook should have taken down my post](https://www.facebook.com/help/2090856331203011). During busy periods it may not be able to review every request, but it says it will keep you updated on the status. For some types of content there's no review option at all.

### For a post that was removed

1. Click your profile picture in the top right, then click your profile name
2. Click Options, then Profile status
3. Open the message Facebook sent about the removed content
4. Click Request review, if you see the option
5. Wait for the notification with Facebook's decision

*The computer steps from Facebook's help page on removed posts.*

After the review, Facebook sends a notification telling you whether the content is back or whether it confirmed the decision. If you still disagree, you may be able to appeal to the Oversight Board. Facebook notes that not every decision is eligible and the board picks only some eligible appeals, so it may not take yours.

### For a suspended account

When an account is suspended, it isn't visible to anyone and you can't use it. Facebook's [suspended accounts page](https://www.facebook.com/help/103873106370583) says you'll get an email, and when you log in you'll see that your account was suspended. Log in and you'll be prompted to appeal within 180 days. If you don't appeal in time, or the appeal fails, the account is permanently disabled and you can't request another review. Facebook can also disable an account without suspending it first for severe or time-sensitive violations.

The examples Facebook gives for suspension are posting content that breaks the Community Standards, misrepresenting your identity to deceive people or evade enforcement, and contacting people to harass, advertise or promote. If your Instagram account was affected too, its appeal works differently: see our guides to an [Instagram account that's suspended](/blog/instagram-account-suspended) and to the [Instagram disabled account appeal](/blog/instagram-account-disabled-appeal).

### For a Page

If you believe your Page was taken down or limited by mistake, Facebook's page on [why Pages get taken down or limited](https://www.facebook.com/help/348805468517220) says to go to the Page and click Appeal at the top. For individual violations, Page Status lets you click See details and then accept the decision or request a review, depending on the type of violation.

### For content in a group you admin

Per Facebook's [Group Quality page](https://www.facebook.com/help/584914935354562), go to facebook.com/groups, select the group, click Group status in the left menu, click See details next to the content, then select Request review and Continue. Admins can appeal both member violations and admin violations, including another admin's. You have 30 days. If you can't see the option, another admin may already have appealed, or that kind of violation can't be appealed.

## Why can't I post in a Facebook group?

Facebook's page [why you can't post, comment or participate in a group](https://www.facebook.com/help/158630788063039) gives two broad causes. Either a group admin has temporarily turned off your ability to post, or Facebook has. Facebook may also require group admins to approve your posts. These are the specific cases.

### An admin suspended you

Group admins can suspend a member, which stops them posting, commenting and reacting in the group for a period the admin chooses. Facebook's [group suspension page](https://www.facebook.com/help/387893081608612) says the next time you visit, you'll see that your ability to post, comment and react has been temporarily turned off. Admins can also set Admin Assist to suspend someone automatically if they've had several posts, comments or other content removed in the past 24 hours.

If you have additional profiles and one is suspended, you can still take part with any of your profiles that are already in the group and not suspended. You can't join or take part with a profile that isn't already in the group until the suspension ends.

### An admin limited how often you can post

In some groups, admins can limit how many posts a member can publish per day and how many comments per hour, for a set length of time. Facebook's [activity limits page](https://www.facebook.com/help/719854838671405) says this feature isn't available in every group, and that you'll see the limit the next time you visit. Admins can also slow down comments on a single post, which Facebook lists as another reason you might not be able to comment.

### The whole group is paused

Admins can pause a group when they need a break or time to catch up. Facebook's [pause page](https://www.facebook.com/help/199910818439946) says a message appears at the top of the group, and new posts, comments and reactions are paused for everyone, including admins. While it's paused, members can still delete their existing posts or comments, access their information and leave the group. The admin can schedule when the group resumes, so check the announcement for a date.

### Your post is waiting for approval

A pending post usually means approval is switched on. Facebook's page on [posting in a group](https://www.facebook.com/help/232426073439303) explains the variations:

- In public groups, admins might require approval before you can post or comment for the first time.
- In private groups with limited membership turned on, a limited member needs admin approval before posting or commenting for the first time.
- Approval may involve answering participation questions and agreeing to the group rules. Only admins and moderators see your answers.
- Even after you're approved to participate, your future posts may still need approval if the admin has set up post approval.

Limited membership is easy to miss. Facebook's [joining page](https://www.facebook.com/help/103763583048280) says it lets you join a private group without admin approval and see and react to everything, but you can't post, comment or chat until an admin approves you to participate. If you joined a group recently and the box to write a post does nothing, this is the first thing to check.

### Facebook put your posts under approval

Sometimes the approval requirement comes from Facebook rather than the admins. The group posting page says Facebook may require admins to approve your group posts because of factors like Community Standards violations. Group Quality adds that Facebook can turn on temporary post approval for individual members or for a whole group, show a group's content lower in Feed if it repeatedly breaks the rules, stop recommending the group, or disable it if admins and moderators post or approve violating content.

### Your post was flagged automatically

When a member posts something that might go against the Community Standards, admins may be notified automatically. Facebook's [page on flagged group content](https://www.facebook.com/help/225716337798978) says auto-flagged posts aren't shared to the group until an admin approves them. Admins can also delete the post and mute, remove or block the member. A post an admin approves can still be removed later if it's reported for breaking the Community Standards.

### That type of post is turned off

Admins of some groups can choose which post formats members can use. Per Facebook's page on [choosing what people can post](https://www.facebook.com/help/144548630973199), Photo/video, Camera, Check in, Tag friends, Feeling/activity and Background colour are always available and can't be turned off, but other formats can be. If you don't see an option you expected, such as a poll or an event, the admins probably don't allow that format in their group.

### You're trying to post as a Page

Facebook says group admins might not allow Pages to join or take part in their groups. Groups can't invite Pages, and Pages can only request to join. If you joined as your personal profile and want to take part as your Page, Facebook says to change your interaction settings. To act as a Page in a group, its [Pages in groups page](https://www.facebook.com/help/215443548960829) says to click your profile photo, click See all profiles, select the Page, then go to the group. Anything you do there appears as coming from the Page.

| Group problem | What you'll notice | What you can do |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Admin suspension | A message that posting, commenting and reacting are off for a while | Wait it out or message an admin |
| Activity limit | A message that your posting or commenting is limited | Post less often until the limit expires |
| Paused group | A notice at the top of the group, for everyone | Check the announcement for a resume date |
| Participation or post approval | Your post shows as pending | Answer the questions, accept the rules, wait |
| Facebook-required approval | Your posts need approval in groups generally | Check Support Inbox and Account Status |
| Automatic flag | The post isn't shared until an admin reviews it | Review it against the Community Standards |
| Format turned off | The option you want is missing | Use a format the group allows |
| Pages not allowed | You can't join or post as your Page | Post as your profile or ask the admins |

Facebook's help pages describe suspensions, limits and pauses as tools for admins and don't describe a way to appeal an admin's decision to Facebook. The practical route is the group itself: read its rules, then message an admin politely and ask what you need to change.

## Why can't I post on my Facebook Page?

When posting fails on a Page you run, the cause is usually your access level, the Page's own state or an identity check. Work through these in order.

### Check which kind of access you have

Facebook's [Page access page](https://www.facebook.com/help/289207354498410) describes two main kinds. Facebook access, with full or partial control, lets you switch into the Page and manage it on Facebook. Task access lets you manage the Page only from other tools, such as Meta Business Suite or Ads Manager. Both include creating content. The difference is where you can do it.

**Facebook access, full control**
- Switch into the Page on Facebook
- Create, manage and delete posts and stories
- Manage all settings and give or remove access

**Facebook access, partial control**
- Switch into the Page on Facebook
- Create content, reply to messages and comments, run ads
- Can't change settings or manage access

**Task access**
- Manage the Page from Meta Business Suite or Ads Manager
- Create, manage or delete content there
- Can't switch into the Page or manage it on Facebook

*If you have task access, you won't see the option to switch into the Page. Post from Meta Business Suite instead.*

Facebook notes that access levels are different if your Page is part of a business portfolio. In that case, Meta's [Business Suite troubleshooting page](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/816464273497113) says the owner of the portfolio or asset assigns access, so ask them to give you access to the right Page.

### Your Page is unpublished

An unpublished Page isn't visible or searchable to anyone without Facebook access to it. Facebook's [unpublish page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1828705267910362) says people with access can still switch in and make edits, but the Page can't interact with other profiles or Pages, which includes commenting on posts and sending messages, and its ad campaigns are paused. Only people with Facebook access can publish it again. On a computer:

1. **Switch into the Page**: Switch to the Page you want to publish.
2. **Open the Page**: Click your Page profile picture in the top right, then click your Page.
3. **Open Settings**: Under Manage Page, click Settings.
4. **Open Access and control**: On the left, under Your information, click Access and control.
5. **Publish**: Click Publish Page, then Continue, then Confirm.

> If a parent Page was unpublished, its child Pages, such as store location Pages, were unpublished too. Facebook says child Pages can't be republished until the parent Page is.

### Your Page has violations or limits

Facebook Page Status shows enforcement on a Page to anyone with Facebook access to it. Facebook's [Page Status page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1985220725104252) gives this computer path: click your profile photo in the top right, click See all profiles and pick the Page, click the Page's profile picture, click Settings and privacy, then Settings, then Page setup, then Page status.

Facebook on a computer: See all profiles › Your Page › Settings & privacy › Settings › Page setup › Page status

*From your profile photo menu. Switch into the Page first, then open its settings.*

Page Status can show:

- Recent Community Standards violations.
- Content rated by third-party fact-checkers.
- Intellectual property violations.
- Content identified as clickbait.
- Violations for sharing too much unoriginal content from other sources.
- Events the Page published that were taken down.
- Content that isn't eligible for suggestions.

Violations can come from anyone who manages the Page, and Page Status shows who posted the content. Facebook warns that multiple violations can get a Page unpublished, limited or barred from creating ads, and that Pages that repeatedly share false news or break the Community Standards may have their distribution reduced.

Facebook's page on [why Pages get taken down or limited](https://www.facebook.com/help/348805468517220) lists common reasons: admins without authentic profiles, managers who break the Community Standards, a misleading Page name, content that misleads followers, hateful conduct, severe or repeated Ads Policy violations, and a Page with no admin who has full control. If the name is the problem, pick one that accurately describes the Page. Our [Facebook Page name generator](/tools/facebook-page-name-generator) can help you brainstorm one.

### Facebook asked you to get authorized

Facebook requires people who manage Pages with a high potential reach to get authorized to publish as the Page. Per its [authorization page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1939753742723975), you'll know because Facebook sends you a notification with a deadline. If you miss it, your ability to switch into the Page and post as it is limited, though you can still post on the Page from your personal profile.

1. **Open Settings**: Click your profile photo in the top right, click Settings and privacy, then Settings.
2. **Open your Meta Account**: Click Meta Account in the left menu, then Your information and permissions.
3. **Confirm your identity**: Click Identity confirmation, then Get started, and follow the on-screen steps.

Once you're confirmed, the status applies to every Page you manage and shows as Identity confirmed. Facebook notes that turning off two-factor authentication or location services may mean you're asked to go through authorization again. Facebook is moving people to Meta Accounts, so you may see Accounts Centre instead of Meta Account.

### Nobody has full control of the Page

A Page must have at least one person with Facebook access and full control. If it doesn't, Facebook automatically deactivates it and schedules it for deletion. If that happened because the last full-control admin is no longer active, Facebook says you can submit a Page admin dispute.

## Why can't I post on a friend's profile or someone else's Page?

If you can't post on someone else's space, the setting is usually theirs, not a problem with your account.

- Profiles: Facebook's page on [stopping people from posting on your profile](https://www.facebook.com/help/115469971891543) says only the owner and their friends can post on a profile. Anyone can change Who can post on your profile? to Only me in Profile and tagging settings. If you're not friends, or they chose Only me, you won't be able to post there.
- Pages: someone with full control of a Page chooses who can post on it, Everyone or Only me, in the Page's settings under Page and tagging, according to Facebook's [visitor posts page](https://www.facebook.com/help/174120789433365). Pages can also block profiles and set age or country restrictions.
- Audience: when you post on another person's profile, Facebook says that person controls who can see the post.

## Is my Facebook account locked, limited or hacked?

Security problems look like posting problems because they stop you doing almost anything. Facebook describes four different states, each with its own fix.

### Locked after unusual activity

If Facebook sees unusual activity, it might lock your account for security. You'll get an email saying so, or see a message when you log in. Facebook's [locked account page](https://www.facebook.com/help/669497174142663) says to open Facebook, select Get started and follow the on-screen steps, which may include confirming your identity. If confirmation codes don't arrive, Facebook suggests:

- If you've already requested several codes, wait a day before trying again.
- Check that you're looking at the right phone number or email address, and check your spam folder.
- Check your phone's blocked messages, since it may be screening code texts.
- Check your network connection and that your phone has space for an SMS.
- Restart your phone, or ask your network provider whether your plan blocks these messages.

### Limited because of malicious software

Facebook may limit an account's features if a computer used to access it may have a virus or malicious software, to stop the problem spreading. Per its [limited access page](https://www.facebook.com/help/855957057754290), you can still browse Facebook but can't comment on posts or send friend requests. Depending on the issue, Facebook may work normally on another computer, phone or tablet. The account should return to normal once the problem is fixed, which can take a few days. Support Inbox has updates.

### Hacked, or posting things you didn't write

If someone hacked your account, Facebook's [hacked account page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1216349518398524) says to visit facebook.com/hacked on a device you've used to log in before. If your account is creating posts, events, groups or Pages you didn't make, Facebook's [spam page](https://www.facebook.com/help/217854714899185) recommends these steps:

- Change your password if you can log in, or secure the account if you can't.
- Check your login history for suspicious logins.
- Review your recent posts and likes in your activity log and delete anything unwanted.
- Check your installed apps and games and remove anything you don't trust.
- Delete any photos, posts, Pages, groups or events you didn't create.

This matters for posting because spam sent from a compromised account can trigger the same blocks and warnings as spam you sent yourself.

### Suspended or disabled

A suspended or disabled account can't be used at all, so the fix is the appeal described above rather than anything in your settings. If you can still log in and browse, you're not suspended. You're dealing with a restriction or a block instead.

## Why won't my photo or video upload to Facebook?

If the post fails only when you attach media, the file or the connection is the likely culprit.

### Photos

Facebook's [photo upload page](https://www.facebook.com/help/167931376599294) suggests:

- Upload the original photo rather than an edited version. Facebook says editing in apps like Photoshop before uploading may cause the upload to fail.
- Use JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF or TIFF. Keep PNG files under 1 MB, since larger PNGs may look pixelated.
- Keep photos under 15 MB.
- Turn off ad blocking software, or add Facebook as an exception.
- Update your browser to the latest version.
- Check Support Inbox. If you've been warned about posting abusive content, you may be temporarily blocked from uploading photos.

For dimensions that display well once the upload works, see our [social media image sizes guide](/blog/social-media-image-sizes). If it's your Page's cover photo that looks wrong, the [Facebook cover photo resizer](/tools/facebook-cover-photo-resizer) crops an image to fit.

### Videos and reels

Facebook recommends MP4 or MOV. Its [video formats page](https://www.facebook.com/help/218673814818907) lists many more it accepts, including AVI, MKV, WMV, M4V, MPEG, 3GP and GIF. Facebook's reel troubleshooting page notes that since September 2025, all videos posted to Facebook are shared as reels, regardless of length or orientation. So the reel troubleshooting steps apply to every video. Per Facebook's [reel sharing troubleshooting page](https://www.facebook.com/help/135703106002194):

- Use a strong connection, ideally Wi-Fi. If you're on Wi-Fi, reconnect or try a different network.
- Keep the Facebook app open until the upload has finished.
- Save the reel as a draft, restart the app, then resume from your draft so you don't lose your edits.
- Update the Facebook app, and if that doesn't help, uninstall and reinstall it.

Facebook also says that a reel mixing clips recorded with and without HDR, or using certain stickers and effects, may be shared in standard format. That's a quality change, not a failure, so the post still goes out.

### Very long text

Text alone rarely blocks a post, but if you write long updates, check the length before you publish. PostMesh checks Facebook posts against a 63,206-character limit, and the free [Facebook character counter](/tools/facebook-character-counter) shows how much room you have. Our [social media character limits guide](/blog/social-media-character-limits) lists the limits for every network side by side.

## What if nothing is blocked and Facebook still won't post?

If Account Status is clear, no group or Page setting applies and the file is fine, treat it as a glitch. Facebook's [troubleshooting page](https://www.facebook.com/help/722403865122892) gives these steps for a computer:

1. Refresh the page, or close it and open it again
2. Clear your browser cache in your browser's settings
3. Try a different browser, for example Firefox instead of Chrome
4. Restart your computer
5. If it still fails, report it from Help and support

*Facebook's computer troubleshooting steps, in order.*

On an iPhone, iPad or Android phone, Facebook's order is: update the Facebook or Facebook Lite app, make sure you're on a reliable data or Wi-Fi network, close the app and reopen it, then restart the device. In a mobile browser, refresh the page, close and reopen it, clear the cache, try another browser and restart.

The same page lists two causes people often miss: a feature that isn't available to everyone yet, and settings that you or someone else set up. If a button is missing rather than failing, that may be why.

### How to report the problem so it gets fixed

On an iPhone or Android phone, shake the phone and follow the on-screen steps. On a computer or iPad, go to Help and support and select Report a problem. In a mobile browser, tap Report a problem. Facebook's page on [what happens when you report a bug](https://www.facebook.com/help/1425096891074204) says it reviews these reports and sometimes asks for more information. To make a report useful, Facebook asks you to:

- Report account problems and abusive content through their own channels, not as a bug.
- Report a broken feature as soon as you see it.
- Explain what you were doing and the steps to reproduce the problem.
- Attach screenshots if you have them.
- Check the Help Centre first, since the feature may be working as intended.

If Support Inbox later says the report was resolved but the problem continues, Facebook asks you to report it again with those points in mind.

## Why didn't my scheduled Facebook post publish?

A scheduled post can fail even when posting by hand works, because it depends on access that has to still be valid when the time comes.

### In Meta Business Suite

Meta's [Business Suite troubleshooting page](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/816464273497113) lists three symptoms: an error when you create or schedule a post, a post meant for both your Facebook Page and Instagram account that doesn't publish to both, and a scheduled post that doesn't publish at its time. The causes it gives are missing access to publish, unresolved issues with a connected Instagram account, a hacked Instagram account, and a system error. For missing access, ask the portfolio or asset owner to assign you access to the right Page. For a system error, publish it by hand:

1. **Open Meta Business Suite**: Go to Meta Business Suite on your computer.
2. **Open your content**: Click Content, then Scheduled, and look for an error message on the post.
3. **Publish it now**: Click the scheduled post that failed, then click Publish now.

### In a third-party scheduler

Scheduling apps publish to Facebook through Meta's Pages API. Meta's [developer documentation for Page posts](https://developers.facebook.com/docs/pages-api/posts) says the person connecting must be able to perform the CREATE_CONTENT, MANAGE and MODERATE tasks on the Page, and the app needs permissions such as pages_manage_posts. That documentation covers posts to Pages, not personal profiles. In practice, if your access to a Page changes or you remove an app's permissions, posts scheduled for that Page can fail.

[PostMesh posts to Facebook Pages](/platform/facebook) you manage through the official Pages API, right away or scheduled up to 30 days ahead. Facebook doesn't let apps post to personal profiles, so profiles can't be connected. During Facebook sign-in you need to select the Pages PostMesh may use. If you see Facebook Page required, connect again and select a Page you manage in the Facebook window. A photo needs to be JPEG, PNG or GIF under 10 MB, and a video MP4, MOV or WebM up to 1 GB. Posts shows each account's result, and Retry sends again only to the accounts that failed.

If you're choosing a tool, our comparison of [a scheduler and a full management platform](/blog/social-media-scheduler-vs-management-platform) and our roundup of [free social media schedulers](/blog/best-free-social-media-schedulers) explain the differences.

## Why can't anyone see my Facebook post?

Sometimes the post did publish, and the real issue is who can see it or how far it travels.

### Check the audience

On your profile, the audience selector under your name sets who sees each post, such as Friends, Public or Only me. Facebook's [audience page](https://www.facebook.com/help/120939471321735) says a new audience applies only to that post, and the next post goes back to your default. Changing it on one device changes it everywhere. Posts in a public group are public no matter what your profile default is, and Page posts have their own default settings, separate from your profile.

### Check whether your reach was reduced

Account Status includes your recommendations status. Group Quality says Facebook may show a group's content lower in Feed if the group repeatedly breaks the rules, and Page Status says Pages that repeatedly share false news or break the rules may have their distribution reduced. If none of those apply, timing may be the issue. Our guide to the [best time to post on Facebook](/blog/best-time-to-post-on-facebook) covers when your audience is most likely to see it. For how reduced reach works on X, see our [X shadowban test guide](/blog/x-shadowban-test).

## How do I keep this from happening again?

Most blocks in this guide come from a short list of behaviors Facebook names on its own pages. These habits avoid them.

**Before you post on Facebook**
- [ ] Read a group's rules before your first post there
- [ ] Space out posts instead of sharing the same thing many times in a row
- [ ] Message and add only people you know
- [ ] Use JPEG or PNG under 15 MB for photos, MP4 or MOV for video
- [ ] Keep at least one trusted person with full control of your Page
- [ ] Remove admins, apps and games you don't recognize
- [ ] Check Account Status after any warning

*Each item comes from a Facebook help page cited in this guide.*

If you post the same update to Facebook and other networks, write it once and adapt it for each place. Our guide on [cross-posting to multiple platforms](/blog/how-to-cross-post-to-multiple-platforms) shows how, and the free [post checker](/tools/post-checker) tests one draft against the limits of eight networks before you publish.

If you're blocked right now, here's the order to work in: check Account Status and Support Inbox, request a review if you think the decision is wrong, wait out any temporary block rather than creating another account, and only then move on to group settings, Page access and technical fixes.

## Questions

### Can Facebook block me from posting without telling me?

Facebook says it notifies you when it removes content and lists restrictions in Account Status. It doesn't publish its rate limits, though, so a short block for posting too fast may come with little detail.

### How many posts can I make on Facebook in a day?

Facebook doesn't publish a number. It says its limits depend on factors like speed and quantity and that it can't share details. Group admins can also set their own daily post limit for members.

### Can a group admin's decision be appealed to Facebook?

Facebook's help pages don't describe one. Suspensions, activity limits and pauses are admin tools, so ask the group's admins directly.

### Does a restriction on my profile affect my Page?

Account Status shows the status of the Pages and groups you manage alongside your profile, so check both. Page Status can also show violations caused by other people who manage the Page.

### Why can I post on my phone but not on my computer?

It's often a browser issue, so clear the cache or try another browser. If your access is limited because of malicious software, Facebook says it may work normally on another device.

### How long does group post approval take?

Facebook doesn't give a time, because group admins review pending posts themselves. If it's been a while, check the group's rules and ask an admin.

### Can I get a Facebook block lifted early?

Facebook says it can't lift a temporary sharing block early. If the block came from a removal you think was wrong, a successful review restores the post and removes the restriction.

### What's the difference between a locked and a suspended account?

A locked account was secured after unusual activity, and you get back in by following the Get started steps. A suspended account broke the Community Standards and needs an appeal within 180 days.

### Can I still use Facebook while I'm blocked from posting?

Usually, yes. During a sharing block you can still view your Feed, and with limited access you can browse but can't comment or send friend requests.

### Can a scheduling tool post to my personal Facebook profile?

Meta's Pages API covers posts to Pages, and PostMesh connects Facebook Pages only. To post to a personal profile, use Facebook itself.

## Sources

- [Facebook Help: Check your Account Status on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/1392616391875085)

- [Facebook Help: Find your Support Inbox on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/195906499396292)

- [Facebook Help: What happens when Facebook removes my content?](https://www.facebook.com/help/260743102021762)

- [Facebook Help: Does the number of times something gets reported determine whether it's removed?](https://www.facebook.com/help/408181689281891)

- [Facebook Help: Blocked from sharing on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/986265348145792)

- [Facebook Help: Why you may be blocked from using features on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/116393198446749)

- [Facebook Help: Limits on the use of certain features on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/177066345680802)

- [Facebook Help: I was warned for sending spam or harassing messages](https://www.facebook.com/help/152457281489359)

- [Facebook Help: Managing spam on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/217854714899185)

- [Facebook Help: I don't think Facebook should have taken down my post](https://www.facebook.com/help/2090856331203011)

- [Facebook Help: My personal Facebook account is suspended or disabled](https://www.facebook.com/help/103873106370583)

- [Facebook Help: Why you can't post, comment or participate in a Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/help/158630788063039)

- [Facebook Help: Suspend someone in a Facebook group that you admin](https://www.facebook.com/help/387893081608612)

- [Facebook Help: Limit someone's activity in a Facebook group that you admin](https://www.facebook.com/help/719854838671405)

- [Facebook Help: Pause a Facebook group that you admin](https://www.facebook.com/help/199910818439946)

- [Facebook Help: Post in a Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/help/232426073439303)

- [Facebook Help: Join a Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/help/103763583048280)

- [Facebook Help: What happens when Facebook flags content in groups](https://www.facebook.com/help/225716337798978)

- [Facebook Help: Choose what people can post in a Facebook group that you admin](https://www.facebook.com/help/144548630973199)

- [Facebook Help: Appeal Facebook's decision to disable your group or remove content, and Group Quality](https://www.facebook.com/help/584914935354562)

- [Facebook Help: Act as your Page in a Facebook group](https://www.facebook.com/help/215443548960829)

- [Facebook Help: About Facebook Page access](https://www.facebook.com/help/289207354498410)

- [Facebook Help: Unpublish and republish a Page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1828705267910362)

- [Facebook Help: About Facebook Page Status](https://www.facebook.com/help/1985220725104252)

- [Facebook Help: Why Facebook Pages get taken down or have limits placed on them](https://www.facebook.com/help/348805468517220)

- [Facebook Help: Be authorised to post or interact as your Page](https://www.facebook.com/help/1939753742723975)

- [Facebook Help: Stop people from posting on your Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/help/115469971891543)

- [Facebook Help: Control what visitors can post on your Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/help/174120789433365)

- [Facebook Help: Choose who can see your post on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/120939471321735)

- [Facebook Help: What to do when your account is locked](https://www.facebook.com/help/669497174142663)

- [Facebook Help: I have limited access to my Facebook account](https://www.facebook.com/help/855957057754290)

- [Facebook Help: Recover a hacked account](https://www.facebook.com/help/1216349518398524)

- [Facebook Help: I can't upload photos on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/167931376599294)

- [Facebook Help: What video file formats can you upload on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/218673814818907)

- [Facebook Help: Troubleshoot sharing a reel on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/135703106002194)

- [Facebook Help: Troubleshoot something that's not working on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/help/722403865122892)

- [Facebook Help: What happens when you report a bug or broken feature](https://www.facebook.com/help/1425096891074204)

- [Meta Business Help: Troubleshooting post errors in Meta Business Suite](https://www.facebook.com/business/help/816464273497113)

- [Meta for Developers: Pages API, posts](https://developers.facebook.com/docs/pages-api/posts)