← All Stripe decline codes

Stripe decline code

restricted_card

The card has been restricted by the issuer for specific use cases or amounts.

Type

Hard decline

Recoverable

Partially recoverable

Frequency

Rare

What does restricted_card mean?

restricted_card is a catch-all code when the issuer has placed a block on the card that prevents your specific charge. It differs from stolen or lost in that the card may still work for other purposes, just not yours.

Recovery strategy

Retry approach

Do not retry. Move to alternative payment method collection.

Customer message

Explain that the card cannot be used for this charge and ask for a different payment method.

Best practices

  • Accept multiple payment methods
  • Treat restricted_card as a hard decline and skip retries entirely

About hard declines

Permanent issue. The card cannot be charged. Customer must provide a new payment method.

Frequently asked questions

Will restricted_card ever recover over time?

Unlikely on its own. The issuer has placed a specific block. The customer must intervene.

How Rebounce handles restricted_card

Automatic hard decline handling, no code required

Rebounce classifies every failed payment by its Stripe decline code and applies the optimal recovery strategy automatically. For restricted_card, that means a limited retry window combined with customer outreach. Multi-channel follow-up through email, SMS, WhatsApp, and in-app banners ensures the customer actually sees the message.

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