Errors of credit card: find out all about them here

A very common occurrence is when you go to make a payment with your credit card and then receive an error message. This can often seem complicated, as each error has a different meaning, and you don't know what to do.

To help you, we've compiled a list of all credit card errors so you can consult them and find out how to resolve them when you encounter a problem. Read on to see the credit card errors you might encounter.

Click on the card error you want to know more about.

Security Errors

• Error 01 – Unauthorized Sale
• Error 03 – Transaction not found
• Error 05 – Sale not authorized due to lack of limit
• Error 07 – Transaction denied
• Error 08 – Invalid security code
• Error 43 – Card Stolen or Suspected Fraud
• Error 55 – Incorrect Password (1st or 2nd attempt)

Errors related to the machine

• Error 10 – Card Use Not Permitted
• Error 11 – Installment Payment Not Enabled Type 2
• Error 14 – Invalid Card
• Error 15 – Bank or Financial Institution Not Registered
• Error 21 – Unable to Confirm Transaction
• Error 57 – Unauthorized Card
• Error 96 – Authorization Denied

Card-related errors

• Error 12 – Unauthorized Transaction
• Error 016 – Invalid Card
• Error 38 – Card Blocked by Incorrect Password
• Error 41 – Limit Exceeded. Contact Card Issuer
• Error 51 – Transaction Denied
• Error 54 – Expired Card or Incorrect Expiration Date
• Error 61 – Credit Limit Exceeded
• Error 78 – Card Blocked. Contact Card Issuer
• Error 1016 – Insufficient Balance

Errors related to sales

• Error 13 – Unauthorized Transaction
• Error 26 – Duplication or Repetition in Sales
• Error 99 – Bank System Temporarily Unavailable

Other card errors

• Undo Not Allowed – Problems Reading Card Data
• Error 06 – Generic Error
• Error 08 – Issuer or Flag Timeout
• Error 19 – Retry Transaction Due to Technical Problem
• Error 22 – Transaction Not Authorized by the Issuing Bank
• Error 25 – Incorrect Data
• Error 39 – Unauthorized Transaction
• Error 40 – Network Failure
• Error 91 – Bank System Down
• Error 96 – Transaction Retry
• Error AA – Timeout Exceeded
• GA Error – Technical Problem with the Administrator
• AC Error – Debit Card in Credit Function

Security Errors

Error 01 – Unauthorized Sale

The most common card-related error is 01. When this error occurs, it means that the financial institution responsible for the card did not approve the purchase for security reasons.

Here, if a transaction is for a value much higher than what you usually use, outside of normal standards, the financial institution may block the transaction as a precautionary measure against possible fraudulent activity.

To resolve this situation, you must contact the financial institution responsible for the card and confirm your intention to make the purchase with a higher value.

Error 03 – Transaction not found

If you receive Error 03, you're also facing a security issue. The operator always strives to protect your card from fraud.

The difference is that here you have an error related to the credit card service itself. Generally, it means you have the credit limit, but you can't sign up due to the number of installments specified.

In this case, you need to contact your credit card company and request a change to your profile so that the purchase can be authorized.

Error 05 – Sale not authorized due to lack of limit

Another security-related error, but this time with your credit card limit.

When the card error number is 05, it indicates that there is not enough credit to complete the purchase. In this case, the transaction is prevented because it is not within the limits previously agreed upon between the consumer and the card issuer.

This error can also appear when the system identifies the purchase as suspicious, following the criteria of the previous error.

To resolve this issue, the customer must contact their card issuer and request a limit increase. By contacting the company, the customer can discuss the available options for adjusting their credit limit and thus enabling them to make the desired purchase.

Error 07 – Transaction denied

Error number 07 is similar to the previous one, as it also results in the inability to complete the transaction due to the card limit being exceeded. In this case, the purchase is blocked because it exceeds the maximum amount allowed by the established credit limit.

As with the previous error, the solution to this problem involves contacting the card issuer directly. The customer should request a credit limit increase, allowing larger transactions to proceed smoothly. By contacting the issuer, it's possible to discuss the available options for adjusting the limit and find the best solution for the situation.

Error 08 – Invalid security code

If you make an online purchase and receive card error number 08, it means the security code you entered is incorrect. This code is essential to authenticate the transaction and ensure the purchase's validity.

To resolve this issue, you'll need to correct the number you entered by replacing it with the correct code. Make sure you entered the security code accurately and check for typos.

After correcting the code, the transaction can proceed normally. If the error persists, verify that the security code provided is correct and valid, or contact your card issuer for further assistance.

Error 43 – Card Stolen or Suspected Fraud

Error 43 indicates that there's a suspicion that the card has been stolen or is being used fraudulently. In this case, it's important to act with caution and discretion to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

If you receive error code 43, discreetly verify the customer's identity to confirm they are the cardholder. If you reasonably suspect criminal activity, you should contact the police or the establishment's security team to handle the situation.

Error 55 – Incorrect Password (1st or 2nd attempt)

Code 55 indicates that the customer entered an incorrect password, either on the first or second attempt. It's important to alert the customer to this situation, as entering the password incorrectly three times in a row will result in the card being blocked for security reasons.

Instruct the customer to carefully check the PIN they entered and, if necessary, offer assistance with entering it correctly. Explain that it's important to enter the correct PIN to avoid having the card blocked.

Errors related to the machine

 

Error 10 – Card Use Not Permitted

Card error number 10 is related to a card terminal usage restriction. This error occurs when the transaction is not supported by the terminal being used.

One way to resolve this issue is to try making the purchase at another available terminal to assist the customer promptly. However, it's essential to contact the card machine administrator to request a resolution and obtain authorization for use of the terminal.

By contacting the device administrator, you can obtain specialized assistance to resolve the error and allow proper use of the card machine. This measure will ensure a smooth and satisfactory shopping experience for the customer.

Error 11 – Installment Payment Not Enabled Type 2

Card error number 11 occurs when an attempt is made to split a purchase into more payments than the store allows. In these cases, the transaction is suspended until the number of installments is adjusted correctly.

To solve this problem, you need to check the installment limit configured on the payment terminal and redo the transaction with the correct number of installments.

Make sure you select a number of installments that is within the limits set by the store.

By making the appropriate adjustment to the number of installments, the transaction can be completed smoothly and the purchase can be paid in installments according to the available options.

If you still experience difficulties, it is recommended to contact the store's support or the payment terminal administrator for further assistance.

Error 14 – Invalid Card

Error 14 occurs when the card used by the customer is not accepted by the machine. This means the card brand is not recognized or supported by the device.

To resolve this issue, you can try a few solutions. First, check if the card brand is accepted on another machine available in your establishment. If so, instruct the customer to try the transaction on a different machine.

If there's no other machine available or the issue persists, politely ask the customer if they have another card accepted at your establishment. This way, you can offer an alternative so the transaction can be completed successfully.

Error 15 – Bank or Financial Institution Not Registered

Error 15 occurs when the customer's bank or financial institution is not registered on the machine used to carry out the transaction.

To resolve this situation, you can ask the customer if they have an alternative card or payment method that the machine accepts. This way, you can offer a viable option to complete the transaction.

Error 21 – Unable to Confirm Transaction

Error 21 occurs when it is impossible to confirm the transaction due to a problem with the machine used.

To resolve this issue, you can try a few solutions. First, restart your machine, as this may help resolve temporary connectivity issues or system crashes. After restarting, try the transaction again.

If the problem persists even after restarting the machine, consider switching to another available machine in your establishment. This can help identify whether the issue is related to the specific machine or a broader issue.

If none of the above solutions work, we recommend contacting the technical support team responsible for the payment terminal. They can provide additional guidance and expert assistance in resolving error 21.

Error 57 – Unauthorized Card

Card error number 57 occurs when you try to use a card with a brand that is not accepted by the machine.

So, the first step here is to check if the card brand is compatible with the machine before carrying out the transaction.

However, if the error persists even with the correct card, you must contact your card issuer to obtain information about what may be causing this situation.

There may be temporary problems with communication between the terminal and the card administrator's network, or it may be necessary to check if there is a block or restriction on the card itself.

If this persists, the owner of the machine should contact the company to find out if there is a problem with the equipment.

Error 96 – Authorization Denied

Card error number 96 occurs when there is a failure in the card machine, which is unable to transmit the purchase information correctly.

To resolve this issue, it is recommended to try the transaction again or use another available payment terminal.

If the error persists, it is recommended that you contact the technical support of the company responsible for the card reader for further assistance and to ensure proper transaction processing.

Card-related errors

 

Error 12 – Unauthorized Transaction

Card error number 12 indicates a fault or problem with the card that is preventing it from being used correctly. This could include dirt on the chip, scratches on the magnetic stripe, or other conditions that compromise data reading.

To resolve this issue, we recommend carefully cleaning the card's chip and magnetic stripe, removing any dirt or obstructions that may be causing the issue. Then, try completing the transaction on another payment terminal to see if the error persists.

If, even after these measures, the error persists, the cardholder is advised to contact the responsible financial institution and request a replacement card. A new card can be issued, ensuring proper operation and resolving this specific issue.

Error 016 – Invalid Card

Error 016 indicates that the card used is considered invalid, whether it was issued by Caixa Econômica Federal (which usually displays this error) or by other banks.

To resolve this issue, we recommend first retrying the transaction to ensure the error isn't due to a temporary glitch. Make sure you entered all card information correctly and try again.

If the error persists even after repeating the transaction, you'll need to contact the financial institution that issued the card. They have the resources and expertise to verify and resolve issues related to card validity and authenticity.

Error 38 – Card Blocked by Incorrect Password

Error 38 occurs when the customer's card is blocked due to an incorrect PIN. This can be the result of multiple failed attempts to enter the correct PIN.

To resolve this issue, inform the customer that the card is blocked due to incorrect PIN and that they will need to contact the card-issuing bank or call the customer service center to unlock it. Suggest that the customer check that the PIN entered matches the correct one and instruct them to follow the instructions provided by the bank to unlock the card.

Error 41 – Limit Exceeded. Contact Card Issuer

Card error number 41 occurs when the card limit is exceeded, preventing the transaction from being completed.

This error is also associated with suspicious transactions, where the amount exceeds the usual standard. If you receive this error message on your card reader, you should contact your card issuer to determine the cause.

Error 51 – Transaction Denied

Error 51 is also related to exceeding your card limit. It can occur when purchasing amounts significantly exceed your card limit.

In this case, it is essential that the cardholder contacts the operator to assess the situation and find a solution, being able to request more limits or analyze whether the limit is really not available.

Error 54 – Expired Card or Incorrect Expiration Date

Error 54 occurs when the card's expiration date is entered incorrectly during an online purchase or when trying to use a card that has already expired, either in physical or virtual stores.

If the problem is a typo, simply correct the date so the service can be performed and you can make your purchase.

However, if the card has expired, you will need to request a new card from the issuer.

Error 61 – Credit Limit Exceeded

Error 61 occurs when the available credit limit on the card has been exceeded. It's important to inform the customer about this situation and offer alternatives to complete the transaction.

Explain to the customer that their card limit has been exceeded and that they can contact the issuing bank to see if they can increase the limit, subject to a credit check. If the customer doesn't have this option, ask if they have another card or payment method to make the purchase.

Error 78 – Card Blocked. Contact Card Issuer

Error 78 occurs when the card being used is blocked. This may be due to incorrect PIN usage, suspected fraud, or the cardholder not having unlocked it.

To resolve this issue, you must go to a bank branch or ATM and proceed to unlock the card.

If the card cannot be unlocked for any reason, you must request a new one from the issuing bank.

Error 1016 – Insufficient Balance

Error 1016, specific to Stone, indicates that the available balance on the customer's card is insufficient to complete the transaction.

To resolve this issue, inform the customer of the error, explaining that the balance on their card is insufficient to cover the purchase amount. In this case, the customer will need to check their bank account or available balance to ensure there are sufficient funds for the transaction.

Errors related to sales

 

Error 13 – Unauthorized Transaction

Card error number 13 occurs when there's a mistake when entering the installment amount or the total purchase amount. This usually happens when trying to enter an amount lower than the minimum installment amount.

To resolve this error, it's important to verify that the amounts entered are correct. Make sure you enter the installment amounts and the total purchase amount according to the established conditions. Ensure the amount meets the minimum requirements established by the financial institution or store.

After this verification, try the transaction again with the correct amounts. This will help you avoid the error and complete the purchase according to the pre-established conditions. If the error persists, we recommend contacting your card issuer or the store's support team for further assistance.

Error 26 – Duplication or Repetition in Sales

 

Error 26 occurs when there is a duplicate or repeat sale, i.e., the transaction may have been processed previously.

To resolve this issue, it's important to check with your card issuer whether the transaction has already been confirmed. Contact your card issuer's support or access your sales management system to obtain this information. If the transaction has already been confirmed once, it means there was a duplicate charge.

In this case, you'll need to refund the customer for the duplicate or repeated amount. Contact the affected customer and explain the situation, offering a proper apology for the inconvenience. Proceed with the refund or reversal of the duplicate amount as quickly as possible, following the procedures established by the card issuer.

Error 99 – Bank System Temporarily Unavailable

Error 99 occurs when the bank's system is temporarily out of service. This could be the result of scheduled maintenance, technical instability, or any other reason that affects system availability.

To resolve this situation, you need to wait for the system to stabilize and try the transaction again at a later date. These interruptions are usually temporary, and the system recovers quickly.

It is recommended to check the information provided by the bank or contact technical support for more details on the expected duration of system unavailability.

Other card errors

 

Undo not allowed

The “undo not allowed” error has been reported in some transactions, especially those made through the InfinitePay system.

The company indicated that this error is related to some impediment in reading the card data.

If you're experiencing this error on your terminal, we highly recommend contacting your card issuer immediately for assistance. They can provide specific guidance on the issue and, if necessary, replace the terminal.

Error 06 – Generic Error

Error 06 is a generic indication of a problem that may occur with your computer, the data network, or communication between the card issuer and the issuing bank. There can be several reasons for this error, and its origin may not be specifically identified.

To resolve this issue, we recommend trying to swipe your card again on the same or another machine without canceling the purchase. Sometimes the error may be temporary, and the transaction may complete successfully on a subsequent attempt.

If the error persists even after trying different machines, it's recommended to contact your card issuer to report the issue and seek assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on the context and error information, assisting in resolving the issue and enabling the transaction to complete.

Error 08 – Issuer or Flag Timeout

Error 08 indicates a timeout on the card issuer's or card brand's network. This means the card issuing bank or card provider (such as Visa, Mastercard, etc.) was unavailable at the time of the transaction.

To resolve this issue, we recommend trying again. It's important to emphasize that the customer is not responsible for the error, but rather the availability of the issuing bank's or card operator's system.

When trying again, check that the network connection is stable and that all card information has been entered correctly. If the error persists, it's advisable to contact the financial institution responsible for the card or the card issuer to report the issue and seek further assistance.

Error 19 – Retry Transaction Due to Technical Problem

Error 19 occurs when there is a technical problem during the transaction that requires it to be retried.

To resolve this issue, simply retry the transaction. However, before retrying, ensure that the necessary technical conditions are met. Check that the internet connection is stable, the machine is working properly, and that all the information entered is correct.

If the error persists after repeating the transaction, we recommend checking if there's any technical support available to help diagnose and resolve the issue. Contact the vendor or technical support responsible for the payment terminal for further guidance.

It is important to ensure that the technical issue is resolved before finalizing the transaction, thus ensuring the correct completion of the purchase.

Error 22 – Transaction Not Authorized by the Issuing Bank

Error 22 occurs when the card issuing bank does not authorize the consumer's transaction.

To resolve this issue, you'll need to contact your card-issuing bank. You can call the customer service number provided by your bank and report error 22. They can provide additional information about why the transaction was declined and advise on next steps.

When contacting your bank, be prepared to provide the necessary information, such as your card number, transaction amount, and the date the error occurred. This will help the bank identify the transaction in question and provide an appropriate solution.

Error 25 – Incorrect Data

Code 25 indicates that some of the information entered in the transaction is incorrect. This could be related to the password, card type, purchase amount, or sales conditions.

To resolve this issue, carefully review all transaction data. Make sure the password is correct, select the appropriate card type, verify the purchase amount is correct, and verify that the sales conditions are set correctly.

If necessary, ask the customer to verify their card information and provide the correct PIN. Ensure all information is correct before attempting the transaction again.

Error 39 – Unauthorized Transaction

Error 39 occurs when the transaction is not authorized by the credit card issuing bank. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as communication issues, security restrictions, or suspected fraud.

In this case, it's important to advise the customer to immediately contact the card-issuing bank. Explain that the error indicates a transaction failure and that the bank can provide more information about the specific reason.

Error 40 – Network Failure

Error 40 occurs when there is a network failure during the transaction process.

To resolve this issue, we recommend trying again. Error 40 usually indicates a temporary network connection failure, which can be caused by instability or technical issues. In these cases, wait a few moments and then perform the transaction again.

If the error persists after a few attempts, check that your internet connection is working properly. Make sure the machine is properly connected to the network and that there are no connectivity issues.

If all checks are completed and error 40 persists, contact technical support or the call center of the company responsible for the card machine or transaction processing service.

Error 91 – Bank System Down

Error 91 occurs when the bank's system is unavailable, making it impossible to complete the transaction.

To resolve this issue, instruct the customer to wait a few minutes, as the issuing bank's system is currently down. This downtime can occur for a variety of reasons, such as scheduled maintenance, technical instabilities, or connection issues.

Recommend the customer to try again after a period of time. These outages are generally temporary, and the bank's system should be restored soon.

Error 96 – Transaction Retry

Error 96 occurs for technical reasons and indicates the need to retry the transaction.

To resolve this issue, simply retry the transaction. This type of error usually occurs due to temporary instabilities in communication between the systems involved in the transaction.

Make sure all the information is correct and try swiping your card again. If the error persists, check your internet connection and ensure the card machine is working properly. If the issue persists, contact technical support for further assistance.

Error AA – Timeout Exceeded

 

The AA error indicates that the transaction response timeout has been exceeded.

To resolve this issue, ask the customer to wait a few minutes and try again. This error usually occurs due to temporary network instability or communication issues between the card terminal and the systems involved in authorizing the transaction.

Make sure the card machine is connected to the internet and has a stable connection. Then, try the transaction again. If the error persists, contact technical support for further assistance.

GA Error – Technical Problem with the Administrator

The GA error indicates that the card machine administrator is currently experiencing a technical issue.

To resolve this issue, try the transaction again. This type of error usually occurs due to temporary instability in the card terminal's system.

Make sure all the information is correct and try swiping your card again. If the error persists, contact your card issuer's technical support for further assistance.

AC Error – Debit Card in Credit Function

The AC code indicates that you're trying to use a debit card as a credit card. This means the card doesn't accept credit card purchases.

To resolve this issue, ask the customer whether they really want to make the purchase on credit or using the debit function. Explain that the card they entered isn't suitable for credit purchases and offer the option to switch to the debit function.

More on credit card errors

In this article, we've outlined all the credit card errors encountered when using the terminal. This gives you a list of errors to check whenever you need to, so you know how to resolve them and can also help guide customers who want to make a purchase.

Did you see a different error code? Let us know in the comments so we can figure it out for you!

And take the opportunity to browse our articles to always be well informed!