Fix missing or null auth sessions in Supabase
A missing auth session means getSession() or getUser() returns null when you expect an authenticated user. This is often caused by incorrect client initialization, missing cookies, or token refresh failures.
Error messages you might see
AuthSessionMissingError: Auth session missing!AuthApiError: invalid claim: missing sub claimWhy this happens in AI-generated code
Using the wrong Supabase client for the context
AI-generated code uses createClient() on the server without cookie handling, when it should use createServerClient() with cookie adapters to access the auth session.
Session cookies not being forwarded
AI tools don't always configure middleware to refresh and forward Supabase auth cookies on every request, causing sessions to expire between page navigations.
Token refresh race condition
AI-generated auth flows don't handle the async nature of token refresh, so components try to read the session before the refresh completes.
How to fix it
Use the correct Supabase client for your runtime
Use createBrowserClient() on the client, createServerClient() in server components and route handlers, and ensure middleware refreshes the session on every request.
Set up Supabase auth middleware correctly
Create a middleware.ts that calls supabase.auth.getUser() on every request to refresh the session cookie. Follow the official Supabase + Next.js guide.
Get professional help
Still stuck? Our engineers can set up your Supabase auth flow correctly. Visit /products to get started.
Can't fix it yourself?
Our code audit identifies this issue and dozens more. Get a prioritized fix list.
Security Scan
Black-box review of your public-facing app. No code access needed.
- OWASP Top 10 checks
- SSL/TLS analysis
- Security headers
- Expert review within 24h
Code Audit
In-depth review of your source code for security, quality, and best practices.
- Security vulnerabilities
- Code quality review
- Dependency audit
- AI pattern analysis
Complete Bundle
Both scans in one package with cross-referenced findings.
- Everything in both products
- Cross-referenced findings
- Unified action plan
100% credited toward any paid service. Start with an audit, then let us fix what we find.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between getSession() and getUser()?
getSession() reads the session from local storage/cookies without validation. getUser() makes an API call to verify the token with Supabase. Always use getUser() on the server for security.
Why does my session disappear after page refresh?
Your middleware likely isn't refreshing the auth cookie. Supabase sessions use short-lived JWTs that must be refreshed on each request. Without proper middleware, the cookie expires.
Related resources
Related Technologies
Still stuck? We can fix it for you.
Send us your repo. We'll diagnose the issue and give you a fixed quote within 24 hours.