TikTok Spark Ads authorization code errors
By HeyMark · Updated
If Ads Manager rejects a Spark Ads code, check the identifier and message before asking for new authorization. Some notices point to the code; others point to the video, permissions, or a temporary processing failure. This guide matches each documented error with the next action TikTok recommends in its official Spark Ads code error table.
Confirm where the code comes from
A post code authorizes the use of that post to create a Spark Ad. The person who manages the account that owns the post opens it in the TikTok app, taps the three dots, opens Ad settings, and taps Generate to get the code. TikTok’s Spark Ads creation guide shows this route.
Copy the code for the post you plan to promote and check that the post is still available. If you work with a creator, ask them to confirm the code and authorization period. TikTok does not give one universal duration for every campaign in its error table.
Find the exact code in the notice
| Code or identifier | What TikTok says | What to check |
|---|---|---|
auth_code_not_found |
The code was deleted. | Ask the creator to generate a new one. |
4013 auth_code_format_error or auth_code_error |
The code is incorrect. | Verify it with the person who generated it or request a new code for the right post. |
4025 auth_code_expired |
Authorization expired. | Contact the creator to extend it. |
900010 calculate_intersection_time_error |
Authorization ends before the ad. | Ask for an authorization period that covers the ad. |
user_permission_missing |
You do not have permission to create ads. | Check with the ad account administrator. |
-500 call_rpc_fail or call_db_fail |
TikTok had an error processing the code. | Refresh the page or try again later. |
TikTok’s table also lists errors about the post’s status or format:
| Code or identifier | What TikTok says | What to do |
|---|---|---|
4002 video_unavailable or 900012 illegal_item_status_error |
The post is unavailable due to a community rule violation. | Contact the creator or choose another post that meets the rules. |
4002 video_deleted |
The video was deleted. | Contact the creator or choose another post. |
not_public_video |
The post is not public. | Ask the creator to make it public. |
4027 story_video_not_supported |
Story videos are unsupported. | Choose another post. |
4042 carousel_duet_not_supported |
Duet carousels are unsupported. | Choose another post. |
930002 mention_multiple_videos |
The post tags multiple videos. | Select a post without that condition. |
900003 multi_duet_stitch_refused or duet_stitch_region_limit |
Restrictions apply to a Duet, Stitch, or multiple people involved. | Choose a post without multiple people or consult support. |
900011 anchors_status_error |
The link or anchor status does not support the post. | Check the anchor audit status or use an authorized link. |
The identifiers come from TikTok and remain in English so you can compare them with the notice. Ads Manager wording may vary by language or update; use the code and message you actually see instead of assuming a cause.
Apply the fix and check again
After the change, enter the code again in the Spark Ads creation flow. If Ads Manager accepts it, the code error is resolved; the team still needs to finish the ad setup and review. If the message is -500, retry later. If the notice persists and the code matches the post and authorization, keep the exact code and contact TikTok support.
TikTok uses organic posts from your own account or other creators, with authorization, in Spark Ads. Read how the format works and its availability before continuing.
If you published the video and want to withdraw permission, review the conditions and steps for revoking Spark Ads authorization.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my Spark Ads code expired?
Ask the creator to extend the authorization or generate a new code. Check that the authorization covers the planned end of the ad.
What does auth_code_not_found mean?
TikTok says the code was deleted. Contact the creator for a new one and confirm that you pasted the code for the right post.
What should I do with error -500?
TikTok describes it as a processing error. Refresh the page or try again later.
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