SAC Delivery Problems

Troubleshooting Tips for App Users





































United Bank employs a method of user authentication called a Secure Access Code (SAC).  All consumers should be familiar with this method otherwise known as the one-time code.  We receive them for everything, including anytime you reset a password on a shopping website. As you can imagine, cell phone networks are processing an increased number of these messages, and delivery can be delayed.
 
As a mobile banking app user, this can be frustrating if you can't authenticate yourself properly, waiting for a SAC message to be delivered to you.  You can also choose to receive your SAC code via email or push notification on your phone.  Simply go to Settings, then Update Secure Delivery Method to add your email address or set up push notifications. 

 

Common causes for delayed text messages in Georgia include network congestion and poor signal strength, which are especially common in rural areas or large buildings. Other issues include problems on the recipient's end, such as their phone being off, out of range, or having a full inbox, and technical glitches with either the sender's or recipient's device or messaging apps. Carrier-side problems, like server maintenance or routing issues, can also cause delays. 

Network and signal issues

  • Network congestion: High traffic on the mobile network, such as on holidays, can slow down message delivery.
  • Poor signal: Weak or unstable signal strength, often caused by geographic location (e.g., rural areas, mountains) or physical obstructions (e.g., large buildings), can prevent a message from being sent or received quickly.
  • Roaming: If either the sender or receiver is roaming, there can be additional delays as the message is routed through different networks. 

Recipient's device and settings

  • Phone is off or out of range: If the recipient's phone is turned off or in an area with no service, the message will queue until it can be delivered.
  • Full inbox: If the recipient's message storage is full, new messages may be rejected or delayed.
  • Blocked number: If the recipient has blocked your number, your messages will not be delivered.
  • Device issues: Software bugs or outdated apps on the recipient's phone can disrupt timely delivery. 

Technical and carrier issues

  • Server problems: Glitches with the SMS Center, which routes messages, or server maintenance by the carrier can cause delays.
  • Messaging app glitches: Problems with the messaging application, such as iMessage, can prevent messages from being sent or delivered properly.
  • Spam filters: The message might be temporarily held or blocked by a carrier's spam filter. 
We've pulled together tips for troubleshooting these issues from the most common cell service providers:

Potential causes for text message delays include:

  • Spam protection Your text might be flagged as spam if it has many recipients, goes to a distribution list with text message addresses, or includes suspicious links.
  • Blocked numbers Blocking features on your Verizon mobile account can prevent text messages from being sent or received.
  • Message attachments Text messages may fail to send if attached picture or video file sizes are too large.
  • SIM card issues Problems with your physical sim card can affect text message delivery.
  • Switched carriers After switching carriers, it can take 72 hours to 10 days for text messages to be delivered.

You can try restarting your device or app to resolve the issue. If you receive a suspicious text message, forward it to SPAM (7726) and then delete it immediately. Do not respond, click links, open attachments, or provide personal data.

Delayed texts on T-Mobile can be caused by network issues, device settings, or problems with apps, and can be fixed by restarting your phone, checking your signal strength, or clearing app caches. Other potential solutions include checking for software updates, verifying Airplane Mode is off, and confirming your device's date and time settings are correct. 

Potential causes

  • Network issues: Network congestion, temporary outages, or poor signal strength can all cause delays.
  • Device settings: Airplane Mode, Do Not Disturb, or battery optimization settings can interfere with message delivery.
  • App or system glitches: Corrupted app cache or a bug in the phone's software can cause problems.
  • Large attachments: Sending messages with large files like photos or videos can take longer to deliver, especially with a weak connection.
  • Sender-side issues: The delay might originate from the sender's system or carrier. 

Troubleshooting steps

  1. Restart your phone: A simple restart can resolve many temporary glitches.
  2. Check your signal: Ensure you have a strong cellular or Wi-Fi connection.
  3. Disable special modes: Make sure Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb are turned off.
  4. Check for updates: Make sure your phone's operating system and messaging app are up to date.
  5. Clear the app cache: On Android, clearing the cache for your messaging app can help.
  6. Check date and time: Ensure your phone's date and time are set to update automatically.

If the problem continues

  • Contact T-Mobile support: They can help check for any carrier-specific issues or account problems.
  • Test with a regular text: Have someone send you a simple text to see if it arrives quickly, which can help determine if the issue is with all messages or specific types. 

Delayed AT&T text messages can be caused by poor signal strength, network congestion, or a problem with your device. To troubleshoot, restart your phone, ensure you have a stable cellular connection (not Wi-Fi), and check for software or app updates. Other solutions include resetting network settings, clearing the messaging app's cache, and making sure you haven't accidentally blocked the contact. 

Basic checks and fixes

  • Restart your device: Turn your phone off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. This can fix temporary glitches.
  • Check your network connection: Make sure you have a strong cellular signal and that Wi-Fi is off. Texting uses your cellular data, not Wi-Fi.
  • Update your software: Make sure both your phone's operating system and your messaging app are updated to the latest version.
  • Check blocked numbers: Go to your settings and make sure you haven't accidentally blocked the contact you're trying to message. 

Advanced troubleshooting

  • Reset network settings: This can resolve connectivity issues. On an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. On Android, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
  • Clear the messaging app's cache: This can fix issues with the app itself.
  • Re-insert your SIM card: Turn off your phone, remove the SIM card, and then re-insert it. This ensures it's properly seated in the device.
  • Use AT&T's tools: If the problem persists, use the AT&T support tool to run a complete diagnosis on your account and device. 












Older cell phones may not be compatible with United Bank's mobile banking app.  See our requirements to ensure the optimal user experience.
United Bank's digital banking team is available seven days a week for support.  Call us at 770.567.7211.