Comments are a great way to show support and provide feedback for a YouTube video. Many video creators thrive on their videos’ comments and feedback to make their channel a better viewing experience. So, what are the reasons you can’t leave a comment on a video? Here’s a list of common reasons and, if applicable, possible fixes.

The video creator has blocked comments

The most common reason you can’t comment on a YouTube video is the video creator has turned off the comments feature for one or more of their videos. If the video has any controversial content, the video creator may block comments to prevent unwanted messages or spam.

To prevent users from repeatedly violating the terms of service, YouTube requires all commenters to have an account (channel). If you try to leave a comment when you are not signed in, you will be prompted to log in or create a channel.

  • The video creator has blocked comments.
  • The video creator has blocked your account.
  • YouTube Restricted Mode is enabled.
  • There is a problem with your browser.
  • A VPN is preventing you from commenting.

Additionally, comments are turned off by default if the video is made for children. When a user uploads a new video, they are required by COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) to disclose whether the content is intended for children or adults.

The video creator has blocked your account

If you have previously posted rude or threatening comments to the video creator’s comment section, they may have blocked your account. If blocked, you can view their videos, but you cannot leave comments for them. If you think you were blocked in error, you can contact the creator via e-mail (if they’ve listed their address) and ask them to consider unblocking you. However, only they can decide whether to reinstate your privileges. YouTube administrators cannot help.

Additionally, you can be banned from commenting if your message was flagged as spam. This action happens if you repeat the same comment multiple times, send links to external websites, or comment before watching a certain amount of the video.

YouTube Restricted Mode is enabled

Your YouTube account may be set to Restricted Mode. To disable Restricted Mode, click your channel icon. If Restricted Mode is On, click the arrow next to it to toggle it off, as shown below.

Parents, if you don’t want your children to disable Restricted Mode, you need to lock restricted mode in the browser(s) where your children view YouTube. Once you enable Restricted Mode, go to Restricted Mode again, and choose Lock Restricted Mode on this browser. Follow the instructions on the screen.

There is a problem with your browser

Clear your cache and cookies

If you are still unable to leave comments after trying the suggestions in the previous sections, try clearing your browser cache and cookies, and then try again. This action may fix any issues related to cookies, and you should be able to comment once again.

Several users reported toggling this mode from its current position to the opposite position, going back to the video feed, and then toggling it back also fixes the inability to comment.

  • How to clear browser cache and cookies.

Disable ad-blockers and other browser extensions

Some users may find that third-party browser extensions like ad-blockers or other YouTube-specific extensions may prevent them from commenting on videos. Try disabling any extensions on your Internet browser to see if this lets you comment.

A VPN is preventing you from commenting

If you receive an error such as “Comment failed to post,” it could be due to the interference of a VPN service. If you’re using a server located outside your region, YouTube could detect this and prevent you from leaving comments. Try disabling your VPN service and attempting to leave another comment.

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