I went to update my iPad but it won’t let it

Whether or not you are able to update your iPad to a newer version of iOS/iPadOS will be dictated by your iPad model - and the currently installed version of iOS. You can find this information here:

Settings > General > About

Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.

Here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by the older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:

iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.1

Newer models, not appearing in this list, are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 14.4.

If your iPad is capable of update, but you are experiencing difficulties, these support pages may be helpful:

Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support

If you see an error when you update or restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod - Apple Support

iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support

Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

if it says it's up-to-date then likely it's because it does not support a higher version of ios

I think i had similar experience:

if you are getting a message that says it’s time to update then it’s available.

But it won’t let you? Then do you also on there see it saying you need to be on wifi?

i had to use the hotspot from my phone as wifi. i don’t have wifi at home.

Also sometimes if ipad power is low, it tells me to put it on a charger while it updates.