This Jimmy Johns error message (“Error validating basket”) typically points to a sync issue between the app (or website) and the restaurant’s live system.
It is most commonly caused by an item in your cart that is no longer available, a price change that hasn’t updated on your end, or the store temporarily turning off online ordering.
Here is how to fix it, ranked from most to least likely to work:
1. The “Ghost Item” Fix (Most Likely)
The system is likely trying to validate an item that technically “doesn’t exist” anymore due to a menu update or stock shortage.
Empty your cart completely. Do not just try to hit checkout again.
Re-add items one by one. This forces the app to pull the freshest data for each item.
Avoid “Reorder”: If you are trying to use a “Reorder” or “Recent Order” button, stop. The old order likely contains a modification or item code that is now obsolete. Build the order from scratch.
2. Check Store Status (The “Hidden” Closure)
Sometimes a specific Jimmy John’s location will turn off their Olo (online ordering) tablet because they are understaffed or out of bread, but the app hasn’t caught up yet.
Call the store: A quick 30-second call can confirm if they are actually accepting online orders. If they have disabled it locally, no amount of troubleshooting on your phone will fix it.
3. Switch Platforms
If you are using the App: Try logging in via a mobile browser (Chrome/Safari) or a desktop computer. The website often handles these validation errors better than the app.
If you are using DoorDash: This error is extremely common on DoorDash. It usually means the menu needs a refresh. Go back to the main restaurant list, swipe down to refresh the feed, and then go back into Jimmy John’s.
4. Technical Reset
If the above fail, clear the bad data causing the glitch:
iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Jimmy John’s > Offload App (this clears cache without deleting your login/data).
Android: Settings > Apps > Jimmy John’s > Storage > Clear Cache.
Why this happens:
Jimmy John’s (and many other chains) uses a backend system called Olo. When Olo sees a discrepancy between what you clicked and what the store’s point-of-sale system says is allowed, it throws a generic “Error validating basket” instead of telling you exactly which sandwich is the problem.
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