# Why did my QR code stop working? 8 causes and fixes

> The most common causes are an expired dynamic-code trial or subscription, a broken destination link, damage or glare on the print, poor contrast, a missing quiet zone, printing too small, or a sticker placed over the code.

Canonical page: https://kizmo.io/guides/qr-code-stopped-working

Updated 2026-09-27.

## If it scans but opens the wrong page

- **Trial or subscription ended.** The provider now redirects to a sign-up or error page. See [do QR codes expire?](/guides/do-qr-codes-expire)
- **The destination changed.** The website moved or the page was deleted.
- **Someone covered it.** A sticker overlay sends people elsewhere. Check the physical code.

## If it will not scan at all

- **Low contrast** or a light code on a dark background.
- **No quiet zone**: design elements crowd the code.
- **Too small for the distance** people scan from.
- **Glare** from glossy laminate or glass.
- **Damage**: scratches, folds, fading.

## Diagnose in a minute

Paste the link or upload a photo into the [QR safety checker](/qr-code-checker). It shows the full redirect chain, so you can see whether the code dies at the provider, the website, or somewhere unexpected.

See [which QR code generators keep codes working after you stop paying](/guides/qr-code-generators-that-keep-working), with each provider's own terms.


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Kizmo: QR codes you own. https://kizmo.io/