WooCommerce Checkout Page Not Working? Here’s What to Do
23 mins read

WooCommerce Checkout Page Not Working? Here’s What to Do

Table of Contents

Introduction

Why a Functional WooCommerce Checkout Page Matters

A WooCommerce checkout page not working is one of the most critical issues an online store can face. The checkout process is crucial for sales, and any failure can cause cart abandonment and revenue loss. Issues like caching conflicts, JavaScript errors, payment gateway misconfigurations, and database inconsistencies often disrupt checkout.

WooCommerce, as a WordPress-based eCommerce platform, relies on multiple interdependent components such as:

  • WordPress core files (handling site structure and functionality)
  • WooCommerce plugin files (defining product, cart, and checkout logic)
  • Payment gateway integrations (via REST APIs and SDKs)
  • AJAX-powered checkout scripts (enabling dynamic content updates)
  • Session handling and cookies (storing user cart and order data)

If these components fail to work together, the checkout may freeze, not load, or fail to process payments. Identifying the root cause requires a systematic approach, as outlined in the following sections.

Common WooCommerce Checkout Issues & Their Causes

A checkout failure can manifest in multiple ways. Below are the most frequently reported WooCommerce checkout errors, along with technical reasons behind them.

1. Checkout Page Redirecting to an Empty Cart

When the checkout reloads to an empty cart, it may be due to session issues, caching, or cookies.

Possible Causes:

  • Session Expiration or Conflicts: WooCommerce uses PHP sessions (WC_Session_Handler) to store cart data. If the session isn’t properly maintained, the cart may reset on page reload.
  • Caching Plugin Interference: Many caching plugins (e.g., WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache) aggressively cache dynamic pages, which can prevent WooCommerce from storing session variables.
  • Hosting Incompatibility: Some shared hosting environments restrict session storage (/tmp folder permissions) or disable session_start(), which WooCommerce relies on.

Fixing It:

  • Exclude WooCommerce pages (/cart, /checkout, /my-account) from caching in your caching plugin settings.
  • Check your hosting’s PHP session settings and ensure session handling is enabled.
  • Verify cookie settings via the browser’s developer console (Application > Storage > Cookies) to confirm WooCommerce cookies (woocommerce_cart_hash, wp_woocommerce_session_*) are being set properly.

2. Checkout Page Stuck on Loading or Order Review Section Failing to Update

The checkout page dynamically updates using AJAX requests (wc-ajax=update_order_review). If it gets stuck or fails to refresh, an error is likely occurring in one of the AJAX calls.

Possible Causes:

  • JavaScript Conflict: Third-party themes or plugins may load conflicting JavaScript, affecting WooCommerce scripts..
  • Failed AJAX Requests: If AJAX returns a 500 or 403 error, it may be due to server restrictions or permission issues.
  • WooCommerce Script Errors: The checkout script may fail due to missing dependencies or outdated WooCommerce files.

Fixing It:

  • Open Google Chrome DevTools (F12 > Network > Fetch/XHR) and check for AJAX failures in wc-ajax=update_order_review.
  • Temporarily switch to the default Storefront theme and disable custom scripts to test for conflicts.
  • Check your server’s error log (error_log or WooCommerce logs under WooCommerce > Status > Logs) for script failures.

3. Payment Methods Not Working or Not Displaying on Checkout

If one or more payment methods are missing, it may be due to gateway settings, SSL issues, or currency mismatches.

Possible Causes:

  • Incorrect Payment Gateway Settings: Payment APIs (Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.net) require proper credentials (API Key, Client ID, Secret Key).
  • SSL Issues: Many payment providers enforce HTTPS for transaction processing. If your checkout page loads over HTTP, payment methods may fail to appear.
  • Geo-Restrictions: Some gateways are country-specific. If your store’s base country doesn’t match the gateway’s supported regions, it may not show up.

Fixing It:

  • Verify your API credentials under WooCommerce > Settings > Payments.
  • Ensure an SSL certificate is installed (https:// should be enforced on the checkout page).
  • Check WooCommerce > Status > Logs for payment gateway-related errors (woocommerce-gateway-stripe.log, woocommerce-gateway-paypal.log).

4. Authentication Errors in Payment Processing

An authentication error happens when WooCommerce can’t connect securely to the payment gateway API.

Possible Causes:

  • Incorrect API credentials (client ID, secret key, public/private keys).
  • Firewall or Security Plugin Interference (restricting outbound API calls).
  • Incompatible WooCommerce Version (older versions may not support the latest payment provider requirements).

Fixing It:

  • Enable debug mode in the payment settings (WooCommerce > Settings > Payments > Debug Mode).
  • Temporarily disable security plugins (e.g., Wordfence, iThemes Security) to test API connectivity.
  • Check the server’s firewall settings to ensure API requests are not being blocked.

5. Checkout Page Fails Due to Unknown PHP Errors

When a random error appears on checkout, a WooCommerce PHP script may have failed.

Possible Causes:

  • Plugin conflicts: Some third-party WooCommerce extensions override core checkout functions.
  • PHP version incompatibility: WooCommerce requires PHP 7.4+, and older versions may cause function errors.
  • Theme-related issues: Some custom themes override the checkout.php template in ways that break WooCommerce’s default behavior.

Fixing It:

  • Enable WP_DEBUG mode (wp-config.php: define( ‘WP_DEBUG’, true );).
  • Review PHP error logs via cPanel (error_log file) or WordPress logs (wp-content/debug.log).
  • Deactivate plugins one by one to identify conflicts.

Why Fixing WooCommerce Checkout Issues Quickly is Crucial

A broken WooCommerce checkout page hurts sales, user experience, and site performance. It leads to abandoned carts, lost revenue, and trust issues. Delayed fixes can cause payment failures, database errors, and security risks. Quick action ensures smooth purchases and store stability.

1. Direct Impact on Sales and Revenue

The checkout page is the final step in the buying process. If customers cannot complete their orders due to checkout failures, they are likely to leave the store without purchasing. Even a small technical error, such as a JavaScript conflict or payment gateway timeout, can disrupt transactions and impact revenue. A high cart abandonment rate signals a serious problem that needs immediate attention.

Every failed transaction means missed revenue opportunities. Additionally, if customers face repeated checkout failures, they may not return. Loss of customer confidence can lead to a drop in repeat purchases and overall sales.

2. Customer Trust and Store Reputation

A slow or malfunctioning checkout page reduces customer trust. Shoppers expect a seamless experience, and any disruption can make them question the reliability of the store. If checkout errors prevent them from making a payment, they might assume the website is unsafe or not functional.

Frustrated customers often leave negative reviews, which can damage a brand’s reputation. They may report payment failures, leading to disputes and chargebacks. Fixing checkout issues quickly improves customer experience and retention.

3. Checkout Session and Cart Integrity Issues

WooCommerce uses sessions and cookies to manage cart data throughout the checkout process. If the session expires or fails to update, customers may see their cart reset to empty or face an infinite loading issue. This happens when the website does not store user data correctly, causing checkout failures.

A broken checkout session can also affect how discounts, shipping rates, and taxes are applied. If checkout scripts do not function properly, users might see incorrect pricing or missing payment options. These inconsistencies create frustration and confusion, increasing the likelihood of customers leaving the site without completing their purchase.

4. API and Webhook Failures in Order Processing

Most WooCommerce stores rely on payment gateway APIs and webhooks to process transactions.If an API connection fails, payments may not process, causing pending or failed orders. PayPal, Stripe, and Square need a stable connection for secure transactions.

Webhook failures can cause problems such as:

  • Orders not being marked as paid
  • Delays in sending order confirmation emails
  • Missing transaction records in WooCommerce and payment gateway dashboards

A broken API connection can delay refunds and customer service. A smooth checkout page prevents order issues and ensures reliable payments.

5. Impact on SEO and Website Performance

A slow or unresponsive checkout page can negatively affect SEO rankings. Search engines track how users interact with a website. If the checkout page frequently fails, visitors spend less time on the site and leave quickly, increasing the bounce rate.

Performance issues, such as slow loading and broken scripts, affect Google’s Core Web Vitals. Checkout errors can lower rankings, reducing organic traffic and sales.

Additionally, if customers encounter checkout failures, they may submit multiple requests, putting extra load on the server. This can slow down other parts of the site, affecting overall performance. Optimizing the checkout process ensures the website runs smoothly and provides a better user experience.

6. Preventing Future Security Risks

A broken checkout page can expose the website to security vulnerabilities. Many checkout failures stem from outdated plugins, themes, or insecure payment gateway configurations. If checkout scripts are not functioning correctly, they might be vulnerable to hacking attempts or fraudulent transactions.

Security risks can include:

  • Payment interception through weak encryption settings
  • Unauthorized checkout modifications due to outdated plugins
  • Fake orders and bot attacks targeting vulnerable WooCommerce stores

Reasons Why WooCommerce Checkout Page Is Not Working

A WooCommerce checkout issue may be due to server misconfigurations, JavaScript conflicts, AJAX failures, database issues, or payment gateway errors. Since it relies on scripts, sessions, and APIs, any disruption can cause failures.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common WooCommerce checkout issues, along with their technical explanations.

1. Checkout Page Not Loading

When the WooCommerce checkout fails to load, users may see a blank screen, unresponsive form, or endless loading. This often happens due to JavaScript errors, caching issues, or resource limits.

Technical Causes:

  • JavaScript Errors: If checkout.js or other dependent scripts fail to load, the checkout page won’t initialize correctly. Inspect the browser console (F12 > Console) for Uncaught TypeError or ReferenceError.
  • Caching and Optimization Conflicts: Some caching mechanisms aggressively cache dynamic pages, preventing WooCommerce’s AJAX-based checkout scripts from executing. Exclude WooCommerce checkout URLs (/cart/, /checkout/) from caching in wp-config.php or your caching plugin settings.
  • Outdated WooCommerce Version: New WooCommerce updates change checkout logic, and old templates may not work. Always check compatibility after updates.
  • Security Plugins Blocking Requests: Some security plugins (e.g., Wordfence, iThemes Security) may block checkout requests as a false-positive measure. Temporarily disable security rules and check logs for blocked requests.
  • Server Resource Limitations: If PHP memory is too low, the checkout script may fail. Increase it to 256M or more.

2. Checkout Button Not Working

If the checkout button doesn’t work, it may be due to JavaScript conflicts, missing WooCommerce files, or incorrect URLs.

Technical Causes:

  • JavaScript Conflicts: A theme or plugin may load conflicting scripts (jQuery dependency issues). Use Chrome DevTools (F12 > Sources > Scripts) to identify missing or overridden functions.
  • Broken AJAX Calls: WooCommerce relies on wc-ajax=checkout to validate orders before submission. If this request returns a 403 Forbidden or 500 Internal Server Error, it means either a firewall or a plugin is blocking it.
  • Incorrect Checkout Page URL: Ensure the checkout page is correctly set under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced > Page Setup. Sometimes, permalink settings (/%postname%/) may cause redirection failures.
  • Theme Customization Errors: If your theme overrides checkout.php and removes important WooCommerce hooks, the checkout may not work.

3. WooCommerce Redirects to an Empty Cart

If the checkout page redirects to an empty cart, it’s likely due to session issues, cache conflicts, or cookie settings..

Technical Causes:

  • Session Expiry Issues: WooCommerce uses PHP sessions (WC_Session_Handler) to maintain cart data. If session storage is disabled or incorrectly configured, carts will reset after redirection.
  • Cache Interference: If the WooCommerce session cookie (woocommerce_cart_hash) is cached, cart data may not persist. Ensure cache headers exclude dynamic pages using Cache-Control: no-store, no-cache.
  • Cookie Settings Blocking Sessions: Inspect browser storage (F12 > Application > Cookies) to confirm WooCommerce cookies are set correctly. If the cookie is missing, check wp-config.php settings for forced cookie paths.
  • Hosting Restrictions on Sessions: Some shared hosting providers block PHP session storage (session_start() disabled). Contact your hosting provider to verify PHP session support.

4. One or More WooCommerce Payment Methods Not Showing

When WooCommerce payment methods don’t show, it’s often due to wrong settings, SSL issues, or currency mismatches.

Technical Causes:

  • Incorrect Payment Gateway Settings: If the payment method is not enabled under WooCommerce > Settings > Payments, it will not appear during checkout.
  • Missing SSL Certificate: Many payment gateways (e.g., Stripe, PayPal) require HTTPS for secure transactions. If the checkout page is not loading over HTTPS, browsers may block sensitive fields.
  • Geo-Restrictions in Payment Gateway: Some gateways filter transactions based on country or currency settings. Ensure your store’s base country matches the payment provider’s supported regions.
  • Plugin Conflicts with Payment Gateway APIs: If another plugin modifies checkout behavior (e.g., custom checkout fields), it may prevent certain payment methods from appearing. Disable non-essential plugins and test again.

5. Checkout Page Stuck on Infinite Loading

A checkout page stuck on loading usually means AJAX failures, database delays, or server timeouts.

Technical Causes:

  • AJAX Call Failing (wc-ajax=update_order_review): WooCommerce dynamically updates order details using AJAX. If the request times out or returns an error (500 Internal Server Error), it indicates a server-side issue.
  • Database Query Delays: Large WooCommerce stores with thousands of orders may experience slow SQL queries, delaying checkout processing. Optimize database tables using OPTIMIZE TABLE wp_posts, wp_woocommerce_order_items.
  • Security Plugins Blocking Requests: Some security configurations may block checkout AJAX calls. Review server logs (/var/log/apache2/error.log or wp-admin/admin.php?page=wc-status&tab=logs) for blocked requests.
  • Payment Gateway API Response Delays: If a payment gateway (e.g., PayPal, Stripe) is slow to respond, WooCommerce may time out. Monitor gateway logs for transaction processing times.

6. Authentication Error in Payment Processing

A WooCommerce checkout authentication error happens when the payment gateway can’t verify the transaction. This is usually due to wrong API keys, expired credentials, or firewall blocks.

Technical Causes:

  • Invalid API Keys: Ensure API credentials are correct in WooCommerce > Settings > Payments > [Your Gateway].
  • Expired or Revoked Access Tokens: Some gateways require re-authentication after a set period. Check the provider’s documentation for token renewal processes.
  • Firewall Restrictions Blocking API Calls: If the server restricts outgoing connections, API requests may fail. Use curl -v https://api.stripe.com to test connectivity.
  • Incompatible WooCommerce Version: Payment gateways frequently update API structures. Running an outdated WooCommerce version may lead to authentication failures.

7. Unidentified Error on the Checkout Page

When a WooCommerce checkout error appears, it may be due to PHP issues, database errors, or plugin conflicts.

Technical Causes:

  • PHP Fatal Errors (error_log): If a plugin or theme function fails, the checkout page may break. Enable WP_DEBUG in wp-config.php to log errors.
  • Database Table Corruption: WooCommerce depends on several tables (wp_posts, wp_postmeta). Run wp db check via CLI or repair tables via phpMyAdmin.
  • Hosting Limits on Execution Time: If checkout scripts exceed the max execution time (max_execution_time in php.ini), they may terminate prematurely. Increase the limit to 120s if necessary.

How to Fix WooCommerce Checkout Page Not Working

A WooCommerce checkout page not working can lead to lost sales and frustrated customers. Fixing these issues quickly is essential for smooth order processing. Below are step-by-step solutions to resolve common WooCommerce checkout problems effectively.

1. Fixing Checkout Page Not Loading

If the WooCommerce checkout page is not loading, it may be due to theme or plugin conflicts. Here’s how to resolve it:

  • Switch to a default theme (Storefront or Twenty Twenty-Three). This helps identify theme-related issues.
  • Disable all plugins except WooCommerce. If the checkout page loads, reactivate plugins one by one to find the conflicting one.
  • Clear cache and cookies. Cached scripts can prevent WooCommerce from running correctly.
  • Check JavaScript errors in the browser console (F12 > Console). Errors can indicate missing scripts or conflicts.
  • Update WooCommerce and WordPress. Running outdated versions can cause compatibility issues.

These steps ensure the checkout page loads correctly without errors.

2. Fixing Checkout Button Not Working

If the WooCommerce checkout button is not working, it could be due to JavaScript conflicts or incorrect settings. Try the following fixes:

  • Disable JavaScript minification in cache plugins. Some optimization plugins break checkout scripts.
  • Ensure AJAX is working. Go to WooCommerce > Status and check if AJAX functions correctly.
  • Verify the checkout URL under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced. An incorrect URL can prevent checkout redirection.
  • Check for console errors in the browser (F12 > Console). Fix any Uncaught TypeError messages.
  • Disable third-party scripts. Some plugins interfere with WooCommerce’s checkout behavior.

Fixing these issues helps customers complete their orders smoothly.

3. Fixing WooCommerce Redirecting to an Empty Cart

If the WooCommerce checkout page redirects to an empty cart, session issues may be the cause. Try these solutions:

  • Exclude checkout pages from caching. In cache plugin settings, add /cart/ and /checkout/ to the exclusion list.
  • Enable PHP sessions in php.ini. Some servers disable session storage, causing checkout failures.
  • Check browser cookies. Ensure WooCommerce session cookies (woocommerce_cart_hash) are set properly.
  • Force secure checkout. Enable SSL under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced to prevent session resets.
  • Disable security plugins temporarily. Some firewall settings block checkout scripts.

These fixes ensure cart data is saved correctly during checkout.

4. Fixing One or More WooCommerce Payment Methods Not Showing

If one or more WooCommerce payment methods are not showing, check these possible solutions:

  • Verify payment gateway settings under WooCommerce > Settings > Payments. Ensure the correct payment methods are enabled.
  • Check if SSL is active. Some gateways require secure HTTPS connections.
  • Ensure currency settings match the payment method. Incorrect settings can prevent methods from displaying.
  • Disable conflicting plugins. Some plugins block or modify payment options.
  • Check geolocation restrictions. Some payment gateways do not support certain countries.

Fixing these settings ensures all payment options are visible at checkout.

  1. Fixing Checkout Page Stuck on Loading

A WooCommerce checkout page stuck on loading is often caused by AJAX failures or server issues. Try these solutions:

  • Check AJAX requests in DevTools (F12 > Network > Fetch/XHR). Any failed requests indicate errors.
  • Increase PHP memory limit. Set memory_limit to at least 256M in php.ini.
  • Disable security plugins temporarily. Some firewalls block checkout AJAX requests.
  • Optimize the database. Large WooCommerce stores may have slow SQL queries affecting checkout performance.
  • Update payment gateway plugins. Outdated plugins can cause checkout delays.

These fixes help checkout pages load quickly and function properly.

6. Fixing Authentication Errors in Payment Processing

If WooCommerce checkout shows an authentication error, payment gateways may not be configured correctly.

  • Verify API keys under WooCommerce > Settings > Payments. Incorrect keys can prevent payments.
  • Check firewall settings. Some servers block outgoing payment API requests.
  • Update WooCommerce and payment plugins. Newer versions fix security authentication bugs.
  • Enable debugging for payments. Under WooCommerce > Settings > Payments, turn on “Logging” to see error details.
  • Test payment gateway connectivity. Use curl -v https://api.stripe.com to check API access.

Fixing authentication ensures payment transactions go through without issues.

7. Fixing Unidentified Errors on the Checkout Page

An unidentified WooCommerce checkout error can appear due to various issues. Use these steps to fix it:

  • Enable debugging mode. Add define( ‘WP_DEBUG’, true ); in wp-config.php to log errors.
  • Check PHP error logs. Look in WooCommerce > Status > Logs for recent errors.
  • Disable recently installed plugins. New extensions may cause compatibility problems.
  • Repair WooCommerce database tables. Run OPTIMIZE TABLE wp_posts, wp_woocommerce_order_items; in phpMyAdmin.
  • Test checkout on a different browser. Some browser extensions interfere with WooCommerce scripts.

2. Best Practices to Prevent Future Checkout Problems

Preventing WooCommerce checkout page issues is better than fixing them later. Follow these best practices to keep your checkout running smoothly:

1. Regularly Update WooCommerce and Plugins

  • Always run the latest versions of WooCommerce, WordPress, and payment gateways.
  • Before updating, test on a staging site to check for conflicts.

2. Monitor Checkout Performance and Errors

  • Enable WooCommerce debug mode to catch errors early.
  • Regularly check WooCommerce logs (WooCommerce > Status > Logs).

3. Optimize Server and Hosting Configuration

  • Increase PHP memory limit to avoid timeout issues.
  • Use a WooCommerce-optimized hosting provider for better performance.

4. Exclude Checkout Pages from Caching

  • WooCommerce checkout pages should never be cached.
  • Configure cache plugins to bypass /cart/ and /checkout/ pages.

4. Test Payment Gateways Regularly

  • Verify that all payment methods are showing on checkout.
  • Run test transactions to confirm payment processing works correctly.

When You Need Expert WooCommerce Support

If your WooCommerce checkout page is still not working, professional help may be needed. Some issues require advanced troubleshooting, custom fixes, or server adjustments. WooHelpDesk specializes in WordPress and WooCommerce support, quickly resolving payment failures, AJAX errors, database issues, and server misconfigurations to keep your checkout running smoothly.

Need urgent help? Contact our WooCommerce experts at 1800-556-3577 or use our WooCommerce support chat for real-time assistance.

By reaching out to WooHelpDesk, you can prevent revenue loss, ensure a seamless checkout process, and improve customer experience. Let our experts handle the technical challenges so you can focus on growing your business. 🚀

Conclusion

A WooCommerce checkout page not working can severely impact sales and customer trust. Fixing issues like payment failures, cart reset errors, and checkout button malfunctions ensures a smooth shopping experience. Regular updates, proper caching settings, and payment gateway optimization help prevent future problems. Implementing best practices such as monitoring logs, optimizing server performance, and testing checkout functionality regularly will keep your store running efficiently. A stable and error-free checkout process leads to better customer satisfaction and increased conversions.

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