Stripe · Decline codes
What does the Stripe incorrect_cvc decline code mean?
Checked
Stripe's incorrect_cvc decline code means the CVC number is incorrect, and the customer needs to try again using the correct CVC. A typo is the usual cause. Retrying with the same code fails again; the shopper only needs to re-enter it correctly, or use another card.
- Type
- Data error
- Who declined
- The card's bank (security code check)
- Retry
- Yes, with the correct code
- Shopper action
- Re-enter the 3- or 4-digit security code
- Merchant action
- Let the shopper correct the code; don't resubmit the same details
What PlatformDTC does
At checkout PlatformDTC adds "The security code (CVC) is incorrect. Please re-check it." and does not move the payment to a backup processor, since only a corrected code helps. On renewals, on the default fixed schedule and with Smart retry alike, it is never retried automatically. The subscription is held past due instead of cancelled, the card is marked blocked, and the customer is emailed a one-click link to add a new card, re-sent up to 4 times per billing cycle at least 3 days apart.
Why it happens
The code typed does not match the card. It can also show up when someone is guessing card details, which is why banks refuse to approve until the right code is given.
What the shopper can do
Check the security code printed on the card and type it again.
What the store can do
Keep asking for CVC; Stripe says collecting CVC and postal code helps avoid fraud-related declines. Repeated CVC failures on one card in a short time can be card testing, so do not let a session try unlimited times.
For developers
On Visa, the raw network_decline_code N7 means "Decline for CVV2 failure", a Visa Category 3 (data quality) code.
Frequently asked questions
- Is incorrect_cvc the same as invalid_cvc?
- Stripe gives both the same description: the CVC number is incorrect. Either way, re-entering the correct code fixes it.
- Can a subscription renewal fail with incorrect_cvc?
- It can, if the bank rejects the saved card's verification. The customer needs to re-enter the card details through an update-card link.
Sources
Related
- invalid_cvc — The card's security code (CVC) is incorrect.
- incorrect_number — The card number entered is wrong.
- incorrect_zip — The billing postal code doesn't match the bank's records.
- incorrect_address — The billing address entered doesn't match the bank's records.
- incorrect_pin — The PIN entered on a card reader is wrong.
- insufficient_funds — The card doesn't have enough money or credit for this payment.
- invalid_account — The card or the account behind it is no longer valid.
- invalid_amount — The payment amount is invalid or above what the card allows.