HP Printer Error Code 63 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Error 63 on an HP printer indicates a problem with the output bin or an attached mailbox/stapler unit. The printer's output system reported a malfunction — either the output bin is full, jammed, or an external output accessory has a fault. If you have no attached output accessories, error 63 usually means the output bin is full of printed paper. Clear the bin and the error will resolve immediately.

Affected Models

HP LaserJet 8000
HP LaserJet 8100
HP LaserJet 5Si
HP LaserJet 4250
HP LaserJet 4350

Common Causes

The output bin is full of printed paper and cannot accept more sheets
A paper sheet is jammed in the output area or at the output roller
An attached mailbox, sorter, or stapler accessory has a fault or jam
The output bin full sensor is blocked or has failed
Wiring or connection issue between the printer and an attached output accessory

How to Fix It

Check the output bin at the top or front of the printer. If it is full of printed paper, remove all the sheets. A full output bin is the most common cause of error 63.

Many users overlook this because the printed sheets look tidy in the bin. But the bin full sensor triggers error 63 when it reaches capacity — typically 100–250 sheets depending on the model.
Open all access panels and carefully inspect the output area for any paper caught in the output rollers. Even a small scrap of paper caught at the output can trigger error 63.

Check the area where paper exits the printer — look for any edge of paper visible at the exit rollers. Torn paper scraps from a previous jam can catch and trigger the sensor.
If the printer has an attached output device (mailbox, sorter, stapler, or stacker), check that device for paper jams or error lights. Disconnect and reconnect the accessory to reset the connection.

Output accessories connect via a dedicated port on the printer's back. Disconnecting and reconnecting them forces a communication reset between the printer and the accessory.
Power off the printer completely, wait 30 seconds, and power it back on. This clears the error state and allows the sensor to re-verify that the output area is clear.

A restart after clearing the output area is always recommended. The sensor needs a clean power cycle to confirm the problem is resolved.
If error 63 returns with an empty output bin and no visible jams, the output bin full sensor may be dirty or misaligned. A technician can clean or realign the sensor for minimal cost.

The output bin sensor is a small arm or optical sensor that detects paper level in the bin. Dust or a bent sensor arm can cause false 'bin full' readings.

When to Call a Professional

Error 63 is almost always user-fixable at no cost. Remove paper from the output bin or clear the output jam. If an external output accessory is failing, it may need to be reseated, reset, or repaired. Accessory repairs vary in cost — contact HP service for specific accessory support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pages can my HP printer output bin hold?

It depends on the model. Most HP LaserJet workgroup printers hold 100–250 sheets in the standard output bin. The bin full sensor triggers error 63 when this capacity is reached. If you regularly print large jobs, consider adding a high-capacity output stacker accessory.

Can error 63 damage my printer if ignored?

No — error 63 simply stops the printer from printing until the bin is cleared. There is no damage to the printer from leaving it in this error state. However, your print jobs are queuing up on your computer. Clear the bin as soon as possible to avoid a long queue of backed-up jobs.

My output bin is empty but I still get error 63 — what do I do?

First, check for paper scraps caught in the output roller area — even a tiny piece can trigger the sensor. Then check whether you have an attached output accessory that might have its own jam. If neither is present, the bin full sensor may be dirty or misaligned. A technician can quickly inspect and fix the sensor.