Claude AI Not Working?

If Claude is not loading, not responding, or showing an error, the issue is usually server status, browser cache, a network restriction, or hitting a usage limit. The steps below cover the fastest fixes first.

Quick check: visit status.anthropic.com before troubleshooting your device. If Anthropic is having an incident, the problem is not on your side.

Why Claude AI Stops Working

Claude problems usually come from one of four causes: a server issue at Anthropic, a browser/session problem, a restrictive network, or the free plan's message limit.

Common symptoms

  • Blank page or endless loading spinner
  • No response after submitting a prompt
  • Temporary error messages or rate-limit warnings
  • Works on one device but not another

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1 - Check Anthropic's Status

Before touching your browser, confirm whether Claude is having a widespread outage. If the status page shows an incident, the safest move is to wait.

Step 2 - Refresh or Hard Reload

Reload the page, or use a hard refresh to bypass stale cache data. This often clears a stuck loading screen.

Step 3 - Try an Incognito Window

If Claude works in a private window, the issue is likely a cookie problem or an extension interfering with the site.

Step 4 - Disable Extensions

Turn off ad blockers, privacy extensions, VPN add-ons, and script blockers. These can interrupt Claude's page scripts or streaming replies.

Step 5 - Clear Site Data

Remove cookies and cache for Claude's site, then sign back in. A stale session is one of the most common reasons Claude stops responding.

Step 6 - Check Your Network

Switch networks or use a hotspot if Claude is blocked on school or workplace Wi-Fi. A VPN can also cause connection or login issues.

Step 7 - Log Out and Back In

Sign out of Claude, close the tab, and then sign in again. This refreshes the account session and can clear random errors.

Step 8 - Update Your Browser or App

Update your browser or mobile app to the latest version. Older builds can have compatibility issues with Claude's interface.

Step 9 - Check Your Usage Limit

If you're on the free plan, you may have reached your current message limit. Wait for the limit window to reset or switch to a paid plan if available.

Tip: If Claude is slow but still usable, reduce the number of tabs you have open and pause heavy downloads or cloud sync activity.

When Claude Works on One Device But Not Another

If the app works on your phone but not on desktop, the issue is probably local to the browser or network on that machine. If it works in one browser and not another, the browser profile or extension list is the likely culprit.

Warning: Repeated retries during a rate-limit window usually do not help. Give it time, then try again after the limit resets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Claude AI not responding?

Claude may not respond because of Anthropic server issues, browser cache problems, a network restriction, or hitting the free plan message limit.

Is Claude AI down right now?

Check the Anthropic status page at status.anthropic.com to see real-time uptime information for Claude AI.

Does Claude work on mobile?

Yes. Claude works on mobile browsers and has an official iOS and Android app. The app generally provides a more stable experience than the mobile browser.

What is Claude's free plan message limit?

Claude's free plan limits vary by usage and server load. When you hit the limit, Claude will ask you to wait until the next day or upgrade to Claude Pro.

How do I know if this is a server problem or a problem with my device?

Try the same service on a different device or network. If it works elsewhere, the issue is local to your device or network. If it fails everywhere, the service itself may be down - check Downdetector or the service's official status page to confirm.

Should I restart my device first?

Yes. A full restart (not just closing the app) clears stale connections, frees memory, and resolves the majority of intermittent glitches. Try this before deeper troubleshooting steps.

How do I check if my app is up to date?

Open the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for the app - if an Update button appears, tap it. On desktop apps, look for an About or Check for Updates option in the menu. Outdated apps often break after server-side updates.

When should I reinstall the app?

If clearing the cache, updating, and restarting have all failed, reinstall the app as a last resort. A clean reinstall removes corrupted data, settings, and permissions that the standard fix steps cannot reach. Your account and saved data are stored in the cloud, so you won't lose anything by reinstalling.