Printer says “Out of Paper” even though paper is loaded

This usually means the printer is not grabbing the paper correctly, or the paper setting does not match what is in the tray. Start with the easy checks below.

Do this firstTake the paper out, remove bent or damaged sheets, reload a small neat stack, and move the paper guides so they just touch the paper.

Try these steps in order

Step 1

Reload a small stack

Use about 10–20 clean, dry sheets of plain paper. Tap the stack on a flat surface so the edges are even.

Step 2

Check the paper guides

The guides should lightly touch the paper. Do not squeeze the stack, and do not leave a large gap.

Step 3

Make sure the tray is fully closed

Push the tray in normally. If the printer has a rear jam door or removable tray, make sure it is seated correctly too.

Step 4

Check the paper size

If the printer asks what size you loaded, choose the size that is actually in the tray, such as Letter or A4.

Step 5

Look for a tiny obstruction

Turn the printer off and look only in the normal tray and jam-door areas. Remove loose scraps you can reach easily. Do not take covers off.

Step 6

Try one page again

If the printer now picks up paper, stop here. If it still says Out of Paper, the pickup rollers may be dirty or worn and the next steps should be for your exact printer model.

Important: An “Out of Paper” message does not always mean the tray is empty. Manufacturers also use it when the printer cannot pick up the loaded paper.

Manufacturer references

HP Support — Smart Tank “Out of Paper” / paper pickup troubleshooting Brother Support — No Paper / No Paper Fed

Printer Triage is an independent troubleshooting reference and is not affiliated with HP or Brother. Menu names and tray designs vary by model.