Quick answer
When paper jams, first unplug the printer from power and carefully pull the paper in the direction of paper travel. Do not pull forcefully or use sharp objects. If the paper is not visible or jams frequently, check the rollers and adjust the paper guides.
How to recognize the problem
- Printer displays a paper jam error
- Unusual noise or crunching during printing
- Paper comes out wrinkled or torn
- Printer does not respond to new print jobs
- A paper jam notification appears on the computer screen
Most common causes
Improperly loaded paper
The paper is overfilled or underfilled, or the guides are not adjusted to the paper size, which leads to jams.
Damaged or damp sheets
Wrinkled, torn, or damp sheets easily jam in the printer mechanism.
Dust or paper debris on rollers
Accumulated dust and small paper particles on the rollers reduce friction and cause jams.
Faulty or worn paper roller
Over time, rollers lose their ability to grip paper, so sheets jam in the same place.
Using unsuitable paper type
Paper that is too thick, too smooth, or not intended for the given printer can cause jams.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Turn off the printer and open the covers
Before removing any paper, unplug the printer from power and wait for it to cool down. Open all covers designed for accessing the interior (usually marked with an arrow or paper icon). If you have a user manual, check the exact procedure for your model.
- 2
Carefully pull the paper in the direction of travel
Locate the jammed sheet and grip it on both sides. Slowly pull it in the direction the paper normally passes through the printer. Never pull backward or sideways, as you can tear the sheet or damage the mechanism.
- 3
Check all areas where paper travels
Inspect the inside of the printer: the paper tray, the area around the rollers, the output section, and any duplex module. Small pieces of paper often get stuck in places that are not immediately visible. Use a flashlight for better visibility.
- 4
Remove paper remnants
If the paper is torn, carefully remove all pieces with your fingers, and if necessary with soft plastic tweezers. Avoid sharp objects that can scratch the rollers or electronic components. Check if paper remains stuck under the rollers.
- 5
Close the covers and turn on the printer
Once you remove all paper, close all covers and plug the printer back in. Wait for the device to start and check if the error has cleared. If the printer has a screen, follow the instructions to clear the error.
- 6
Check and clean the rollers
Before cleaning, unplug the printer from power, and after cleaning plug it back in. If paper jams frequently, clean the rollers with a soft, lint-free dry cloth. Gently wipe over the rollers to remove dust and paper residue. Do not use water or chemicals unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it.
- 7
Adjust the paper guides
In the paper tray, adjust the side guides so they touch the edges of the paper but do not bend it. The paper should be aligned and not exceed the maximum fill mark. Use only paper intended for your printer.
- 8
Test printing
Print a test page from the operating system or via the printer screen. In Windows 11, open
Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, and in Windows 10Control Panel > Devices and Printers, then select the printer and start a test print. Check if the paper passes without jamming.
If paper still jams
If you have removed all visible paper and the printer still reports a jam, a piece of paper may have remained in an inaccessible place, such as under the fuser or in the transport mechanism. Do not attempt to disassemble the printer yourself, as this can void the warranty and cause permanent damage. Instead, check if the manufacturer offers a cleaning tool or error reset via the device menu. If the problem repeats in the same place, a roller replacement or service is likely needed. In that case, contact an authorized service center or IT support.
How to prevent it
- Use only paper recommended by the printer manufacturer.
- Regularly clean the rollers and the inside of the printer from dust and paper residue.
- Properly set the paper guides and do not overfill the tray.
- Store paper in a dry place to avoid dampness and warping of sheets.
When to call a professional
If paper jams several times a week, if the printer makes unusual noises, or if you cannot find the jammed paper, contact IT support or an authorized service center. Disassembling it yourself can lead to greater damage.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Can I pull out the paper while the printer is on?
It is not recommended. Always unplug the printer from power before removing paper to avoid electric shock or damage to the mechanism. If the manufacturer has specified a special procedure, follow the instructions.
What should I do if the paper is not visible?
Open all covers and inspect the interior with a flashlight. If you cannot find it, do not disassemble the printer. Contact service or IT support.
Why does paper constantly jam in the same place?
The most common cause is a worn paper roller or accumulated dust. Clean the rollers and check if they are damaged. If the problem persists, roller replacement is needed.