Introduction
Seeing the error “Replacement Transaction Underpriced” in MetaMask can be confusing, especially when you’re trying to speed up or fix a stuck transaction.
The good news is that this error does not mean your funds are lost.
It usually happens because of gas fee settings or a nonce conflict, and it can be fixed safely by following the correct steps.
In this guide, you’ll learn why this MetaMask error happens and exact step-by-step solutions to fix it without risking your crypto.
Quick Answer
If MetaMask shows “Replacement Transaction Underpriced”, do this in order:
- Do not resend the transaction repeatedly
- Increase the gas fee above the previous one
- Reset MetaMask account activity
- Send a new transaction correctly
- Verify the transaction on the blockchain
Most users fix this error in just a few minutes.
Why MetaMask Shows “Replacement Transaction Underpriced”
This error appears when MetaMask tries to replace a pending transaction but the new gas fee is not high enough.
Here are the most common reasons:
Gas Fee Too Low
Ethereum requires the replacement transaction to have a higher gas fee than the original one.
If the increase is too small, the network rejects it.
Pending Transaction Already in Queue
If there is an existing pending transaction with the same nonce, MetaMask cannot replace it unless the new fee is higher.
Network Congestion
During busy periods, gas prices change quickly.
A fee that was enough minutes ago may no longer be sufficient.
Multiple Rapid Attempts
Sending multiple transactions quickly can cause nonce conflicts, triggering this error.
How to Fix “Replacement Transaction Underpriced” (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Stop Sending New Transactions
First:
- Do not keep clicking “Send”
- Do not retry with the same fee
Repeated attempts often make the issue worse.
Step 2: Check Current Gas Fees
Before replacing the transaction:
- Check current gas prices
- Make sure the new fee is clearly higher than the old one
A small increase may not be enough.
Step 3: Increase Gas Fee Properly
When MetaMask allows you to edit gas:
- Click Edit or Speed Up
- Choose Advanced
- Increase the gas fee noticeably
- Confirm the transaction
This signals validators to prioritize the replacement.
Step 4: Reset MetaMask Account Activity (Safe)
If the error keeps appearing:
- Open MetaMask
- Go to Settings → Advanced
- Click Reset Account
- Confirm
⚠️ This does not delete your wallet or funds.
It only clears local transaction history and nonce issues.
Step 5: Send the Transaction Again
After resetting:
- Send the transaction once
- Use correct gas settings
- Avoid rapid retries
Most users see the issue resolved at this stage.
What NOT to Do ❌
- Do not lower the gas fee
- Do not use third-party “fix” tools
- Do not share your recovery phrase
- Do not import your wallet into random apps
MetaMask will never ask for your seed phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this error mean my crypto is lost?
No. Your funds remain safe on the blockchain.
How much should I increase the gas fee?
It should be noticeably higher than the previous transaction, especially during congestion.
Can this error fix itself?
Sometimes yes, once the pending transaction confirms or drops.
Is resetting MetaMask safe?
Yes. It only clears local transaction data, not your funds.
Final Thoughts
The “Replacement Transaction Underpriced” error in MetaMask is a common gas fee and nonce issue, not a wallet failure.
By increasing gas fees correctly and resetting account activity when needed, most users fix this problem quickly without risk.
Always take your time and avoid unsafe shortcuts.