Fix a Salesforce Picklist Field Default Value That Is Not Automatically Populating

A picklist field's default value is controlled at two levels: the field level and the Record Type level. When Record Types are in use, the Record Type setting takes precedence. Follow the steps below to set the correct default value for a specific Record Type.

Steps to Fix

1. Access the Object Manager: Click the gear icon in the top right corner and select Setup. In the Quick Find box, type Object Manager and select it.
2. Find the Object: Search for and click on the name of the object that contains the picklist field (for example, Account, Contact, or a custom object).
3. Go to Record Types: From the menu on the left side of the object's page, click Record Types.
4. Find the Active Record Type: Click on the name of the active Record Type that your users are using when creating new records.
5. Edit the Picklist: On the Record Type page, find the section labeled Picklists Available for Editing. Locate your picklist field and click the Edit link next to it.
6. Set the Default Value: This page shows all values available for this Record Type.
   • Uncheck the box next to any existing default value.
   • Check the box in the Default column next to the value you want to appear automatically.
7. Save the Change: Click Save.Expected Result

The selected default picklist value now appears automatically when users create a new record using that specific Record Type.