If you've ever been declined for a credit card, you know how frustrating it can be. But did you know that there's usually a code associated with that decline? Credit card decline codes can help you figure out what went wrong and what you can do to fix it.
In this guide, we'll go over some of the most common credit card decline codes and what they mean. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be able to avoid declined transactions in the future!
Code 1: Incorrect Credit Card Number
This is one of the most common reasons for a declined transaction. It can happen if you enter your credit card number incorrectly or if your card is expired.
To fix this, double-check that you're entering your credit card number correctly. If your card is expired, you'll need to get a new one from your issuer.
Code 2: Invalid Expiration Date
If you enter an expiration date that's in the past or that doesn't exist, you'll get this decline code. For example, if your card expires in May and you enter February as the expiration date, you'll get this code.
To fix this, make sure that you're entering the correct expiration date for your credit card. You can find this information on your credit card statement or by logging into your account online.
Code 3: Invalid CVV
The CVV (card verification value) is the 3 or 4 digit code on the back of your credit card. It's used to verify that you have the physical card in your possession.
If you enter the wrong CVV, you'll get this decline code. To fix it, make sure that you're entering the correct CVV for your credit card. You can find this information on the back of your credit card.
Code 4: Address Verification Failed
When you make a purchase online or over the phone, the merchant will usually verify your address with your credit card issuer. This is to prevent fraudsters from using stolen credit cards.
If your address doesn't match what's on file with your issuer, you'll get this decline code. To fix it, make sure that your address is updated with your issuer. You can do this by logging into your account online or calling customer service.
Code 5: Declined for Fraud
If your purchase is flagged for fraud, you'll get this decline code. It doesn't necessarily mean that you're a fraudster, but it does mean that the purchase raised some red flags.
To fix this, you'll need to contact the merchant and your credit card issuer. They may require you to provide additional information or documentation to prove your identity.
Code 6: Insufficient Funds
If you don't have enough money in your account to cover the purchase, you'll get this decline code. This can happen if you've recently made other purchases or if you have insufficient credit available.
To fix this, you'll need to make sure that you have enough money in your account to cover the purchase. You can also try using a different form of payment, such as debit or cash.
Code 7: Transaction Not Allowed
This decline code usually means that the merchant doesn't accept your credit card. For example, if you're trying to use a Visa card at a Mastercard-only establishment,
To fix it, you'll need to use a different form of payment that the merchant accepts. If you're trying to use a credit card, you can try using a debit card or cash instead.
Code 8: Credit Card Issuer Error
If there's an error with your credit card issuer, you'll get this decline code. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as an issue with your account or a problem with the issuer's system.
To fix it, you'll need to contact your credit card issuer. They'll be able to help you figure out what went wrong and what you can do to fix it.
Armed with this knowledge, you should be able to fix most declined transaction issues. If you're still having trouble, you can always contact the merchant or your credit card issuer for help
