How do I fix an iPhone that will not let me add a new contact?
Answer
This usually happens when Contacts is turned off for the account you are saving to (iCloud, Gmail, Yahoo, or Exchange), or no default account is selected.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Removing an email account can delete that account’s contacts from the phone unless they are stored elsewhere.
Follow these steps
Check Contacts for each account
Open Settings, tap your name, then iCloud (or Apps > Contacts > Contacts Accounts on newer iOS). For each listed account such as iCloud, Gmail, Yahoo, or Exchange, make sure Contacts is turned on.
You should see: At least one account shows Contacts enabled.
Set a default Contacts account
Go to Settings > Apps > Contacts (or Settings > Contacts) and choose Default Account, then select iCloud or another account you use.
You should see: A default account is selected so new contacts have a place to save.
Try adding a contact again
Open the Contacts or Phone app, tap +, enter a name and number, then tap Done.
You should see: The contact saves and appears in the list.
Restart the iPhone if it still fails
If saving still fails, restart the iPhone, then try adding one simple contact again with only a name and phone number.
You should see: The contact saves after the restart, or a clearer error message appears.
Update iOS only if needed
If Contacts still will not save and Settings looks correct, check Settings > General > Software Update and install any available iOS update. Prefer Update over Restore so personal data is kept.
You should see: The phone is on a current iOS build and adding contacts works again.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether the + button is missing or grayed out, whether nothing happens when you tap Done, or whether an account-related error appears
Before you change anything: Note which accounts are signed in on the iPhone (iCloud, Gmail, and others). Avoid deleting an email account just to fix Contacts unless you understand what mail and calendar data that removes. Do not share account passwords with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
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