Why can't I purchase with my card?

Why Your Card Got Rejected: Decoding Payment Declines

We’ve all been there: you’re ready to check out, click “pay,” and then… rejection. That frustrating “declined” message can leave you scratching your head. But understanding the common reasons behind payment failures can help you quickly resolve the issue and get back to shopping or booking your travel.

The most common culprits behind card payment declines are surprisingly simple, often boiling down to one of these four key areas:

1. Expired Card: This is the most straightforward reason. Credit and debit cards have expiration dates printed directly on the card itself. If your card has passed its expiration date, it will be automatically declined. Check your card for the expiry month and year and replace it if needed. Your card issuer will usually send you a replacement before your card expires.

2. Exceeded Credit Limit (Credit Cards Only): If you’re using a credit card, exceeding your pre-approved credit limit is another common cause of decline. This means you’ve attempted a purchase that would put your total spending above the maximum amount your credit card issuer has authorized. Check your available credit balance with your bank or through your online banking portal. Consider making a payment to lower your balance or explore increasing your credit limit with your card issuer.

3. Suspected Fraudulent Activity: Your bank’s fraud detection systems are always working to protect you. Unusual spending patterns, like a large purchase in a location you don’t usually frequent, or multiple transactions in a short period, can trigger a security alert resulting in your card being temporarily blocked. Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately to confirm the transaction and potentially lift the block. They may ask security questions to verify your identity.

4. Merchant Holds (Temporary Authorizations): Many businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and rental industries (hotels, car rental agencies, etc.), place temporary holds on your card. These aren’t actual charges; instead, they reserve a specific amount of funds to cover potential charges during your stay or rental period. The hold is released once the final bill is processed, typically a few days after your service is completed. If you’re concerned about the hold, contact the merchant directly for clarification on their policies and expected release timeframe.

Troubleshooting Steps:

If your card is still declined after checking these points, take these steps:

• Verify your card details: Double-check that you’ve entered the correct card number, expiration date, and CVV code. A single incorrect digit can lead to rejection.
• Contact your card issuer: If you’ve ruled out the above issues, contact your bank or credit card company directly. They have access to your account information and can pinpoint the exact reason for the decline. They can also help investigate any potential fraudulent activity.

Understanding these common reasons behind card payment rejections empowers you to quickly resolve the problem and get back to what you were doing. Remember proactive communication with your bank is key to smooth transactions.