Automations rarely break on their own. When comment to DM stops overnight, something changed: on your account, on the post, or on your plan. Go through these in order.
1. You changed your Instagram password or logged out everywhere
Some security actions end the access you gave your tool. Fix: reconnect Instagram in the tool.
2. The connection expired
Access granted to apps can expire or be revoked by Instagram after a while, especially if Instagram asks you to re-confirm your identity. Fix: reconnect. DM Flow shows the connection status on your dashboard.
3. Someone removed the app in Instagram settings
Under Settings → Apps and websites (or Business integrations), a teammate may have removed the tool. Fix: reconnect and approve all permissions.
4. "Allow access to messages" was turned off
Fix: turn it back on. See how to turn on Allow access to messages.
5. The post was deleted or archived
An automation watching one post stops when that post is gone. Fix: pick a new post, or use an every-post automation.
6. You reached a plan limit
Monthly DM limits or a plan downgrade can pause automations. Fix: check your plan and usage, then upgrade or wait for the new month.
7. You switched the account type
Moving from a professional account back to personal breaks automation. Fix: switch back to Business or Creator.
8. Instagram is having issues
Sometimes Instagram delays or drops events for a few hours across many tools. Fix: wait, test again, and check your tool's status or support.
The two-minute test
- Comment your keyword from a second account.
- Open the activity log.
- If the comment shows up with a reason (limit, no match, refused), fix that reason.
- If the comment never shows up, reconnect Instagram.
Related reading
- Instagram DM not sending: fixes
- Test your automation before going live
- Why some commenters got the DM and others did not
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to reconnect Instagram often?
No. Usually only after a password change, a security check or removing the app.
Will reconnecting delete my automations?
In DM Flow, no. Reconnecting the same account keeps your automations and contacts.
How do I know if Instagram is down?
If every tool and the Instagram app itself are slow to show comments and messages, wait an hour and test again.