Everyday problem · Paper feed
Printer won't pick up paper
If the printer tries to print but never grabs a sheet, start with the paper and tray. Changing Windows or Mac settings will not help a printer that cannot pick up paper.
1. Reload a small stack
- Take the paper out.
- Use 10–20 clean, dry, flat sheets.
- Straighten the stack.
- Reload it without overfilling the tray.
- Move the paper guides so they just touch the paper.
2. Check the paper size
If the printer has a screen, make sure the tray is set for the paper you loaded, such as Letter or A4 and Plain Paper.
3. Look for something blocking the paper
Turn the printer off and check only the normal trays and jam doors. Remove a visible scrap or object if you can reach it easily. Do not remove covers or force anything inside the printer.
4. Try one page again
If the printer feeds the paper, stop here. If it still makes feeding noises but no sheet moves, use the printer maker's instructions for the tray or pickup rollers for your exact model.