FaceTime won't connect or isn't available on your Mac
Quick answer
Quit and reopen FaceTime, check your Wi-Fi and that the date and time are set automatically. If calls still fail, sign out and back in under FaceTime, Settings, General.
Why it happens
FaceTime needs three things: an internet connection, your Apple Account signed in, and a correct clock so Apple's servers trust your Mac. If any of those slips, calls stall on Connecting or the app says FaceTime isn't available. Signing in again often clears it.
How to fix it
Quit FaceTime with Command-Q and open it again.
Check that Wi-Fi is on and a web page loads in your browser.
Open General, then Date & Time, and make sure Set time and date automatically is on.
General›Date & Time›Set time and date automatically
In FaceTime, choose FaceTime, then Settings…, then General. Click Sign Out, quit FaceTime, open it again and sign back in with your Apple Account.
FaceTime›Settings…›General
Still not fixed?
If the other person sees no video, quit every app that might use the camera, like Photo Booth or a browser, then try again. If it's still black, restart the Mac.
Apple menu›Restart…
Make sure the person you're calling has FaceTime turned on and is using the email or number you're calling.
If FaceTime says Waiting for activation, leave it on Wi-Fi for a while, then sign out, restart and sign in again.
If FaceTime still won't connect while the internet works fine, contact Apple Support.
Questions people ask
Why does FaceTime say unavailable on my Mac?
Usually the Mac is offline, the clock is wrong, or the person you're calling can't take FaceTime calls right now. Check Wi-Fi and the date and time, then try again.
How do I sign out of FaceTime on a Mac?
Open FaceTime, choose FaceTime, then Settings, then General, and click Sign Out.
Why is FaceTime stuck on Connecting?
The connection dropped or your account needs signing in again. Restart FaceTime, check Wi-Fi, then sign out and back in.
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