If you have experienced declined debit card transactions, don’t worry. It can happen even if you have enough money in your account. Below, we will explain how to deal with this and what the reasons may be. For example, it may be due to suspicious activity on your balance, or the card may be outdated or damaged. But no problem that can’t be solved, and the same goes for the reasons your debit card doesn’t work properly.
What Is a Debit Card Transaction Decline?
This happens when a cardholder’s bank refuses to process a transaction with a preferred card. This is usually done for security and confidentiality measures. In this way, the card provider tries to protect the client from unauthorized transactions and ensure the reliability of financial transactions.
A card may be declined due to many different factors. For example, it may be related to technical issues. Your debit or credit card may be damaged or outdated. Alternatively, the cost of the desired purchase may exceed the available account balance or limit.
How a Debit Card Works
A debit card is a type of bank payment card. Every debit card is intended for receiving cash and performing other transactions. With its help, you can also borrow money for a certain period. Its feature is that you have access to your money, which is in the account.
When you make a purchase or withdraw cash, you must enter a PIN code. This is done to prevent fraudulent activities. Such a card promotes proper money management, and you can even set the desired daily spending limit.
Potential Reasons Why Your Debit Card Is Declined
Insufficient Funds in Your Bank Account
Unfortunately, there are many reasons why a debit card could be declined. Most cases are related to a lack of funds in the account. If you forgot to top up your card or you ran out of money, then, of course, debit transactions will automatically be declined. Check if there are any other restrictions on the card as well.
You Reached Your Daily Purchase Limit
Not only new debit cards but all have a daily purchase limit. It is usually set by banks or another institution that issued you a card. This means that it is impossible to spend the entire amount from the card in one day on online purchases or other things. Money is available in a limited amount for a reason. It also helps protect your card information. But you can also call your bank and ask to change this parameter. Also, if you constantly track your finances, you will understand your limit.
| Bank or Financial Institution | Daily Purchase Limit |
|---|---|
| PNC | $3,000 |
| Wells Fargo | $4,500 |
| Chase | $7,000 |
| Citibank | $6,000 |
| SunTrust | $3,500 |
Your Debit Card has Expired or Is Inactive
All cards have a specific expiration date, which is indicated on the front of the card. This two-digit card number indicates the month and year until which it is safe using a credit card. If this is your new card, be sure to keep in mind that you need to activate it first. Contact your bank or card issuer, and they will give you all the necessary information. This process is different for each institution. Remember that using an expired card can result in a declined transaction. Therefore, always pay attention to such details.
The Bank Finds the Purchase Suspicious
When your financial institution notices suspicious activity on your card, it may decline the transaction. This is called overdraft protection. Here’s a list of activities and situations that can raise suspicion and lead to that transaction was declined:
- Shopping in regions or countries that are not typical for your location.
- When you use your debit card several times in a row.
- Transactions in other currencies
- If you have entered incorrect information several times while making purchases and several transactions in a short period.
Your Card Is Suspended
If your card has been blocked, don’t worry. You can call your financial institution and explain what happened. You cannot use your card until it is unblocked. Usually, it may take some time to verify your personal information and other security points. Your bank knows how to solve this problem quickly and correctly, so contact it as soon as possible.
Your Card Type Was Not Accepted
Sometimes, the terminal could decline even your card because it seemed unsuitable. This could happen if the terminal only supports contactless payments and you have a card without an electronic chip. That’s why it’s important to always check how good your card is for a particular card machine.
Technical Issues Prevented the Transaction
It is important to note that sometimes problems, such as a declined card, can occur due to technical issues. Here are some possible reasons for this:
- The terminal may be faulty or temporarily out of order.
- Lack of connection or instability.
- Errors or interruptions in the banking system.
- It may temporarily make it difficult to perform transactions.
- A debit card may be damaged.
You Entered the Wrong PIN Information
Be careful and check the correctness of entering the PIN code for a successful transaction. In case of an unsuccessful attempt, it is recommended to check the correctness of the code and try again. It is important to enter personal data such as PIN code correctly. After all, if this is not done, the card may have been declined. Therefore, for a successful operation, it is worth checking several times whether you enter the data correctly.
Additional Insights for Borrowers
| Issue | Possible Causes | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Card Declined for Unusual Activity | Unusual spending patterns detected. | Contact your bank immediately to confirm the legitimacy of your transactions. |
| Declined Due to Temporary Hold | Temporary hold on funds exceeds the purchase amount. | Wait for the hold to be released, or choose an alternative payment method. |
| Multiple Declines in a Short Time | Suspicion of fraudulent activity. | Contact your card provider to verify your identity and confirm the legitimacy of transactions. |
| Declined for International Transaction | International transaction restrictions. | Inform your Visa or Mastercard union of your travel plans or adjust international transaction settings. |
| Declined After Large Cash Deposit | Bank processing delay for large cash deposits. | Wait for the deposit to be fully processed or inquire about its status. |
| Card Rejected on High-Spending Occasion | Unusually high spending for a specific event. | Notify your bank in advance about significant spending events to prevent declines. |
How To Fix a Declined Debit Card
If you have encountered the declined online card problem, there are several steps you can take to solve it. Here is a small and clear instruction:
- First, ensure you have enough money in your account.
- Make sure you have entered your PIN correctly. This seemingly small thing can make a big difference.
- Call your bank branch or contact a customer service representative. They can provide all the information and advice you need.
- If you’re planning a trip abroad or just a large purchase, it’s better to alert your mobile banking.
- Make sure your debit card hasn’t expired and that you have access to your account.
Ways To Avoid Having Your Debit Card Declined
Probably, almost every person at least once thought about how to avoid having your card declined. Below, we have prepared several effective methods that will help you keep funds in your account safe and avoid common issues.
Keep Track of Your Financial Accounts
You should always pay special attention not only to card issues but also to financial accounts. Systematic tracking of balances and transactions contributes to convenient and efficient financial accounting. This way, you can detect any suspicious activity in advance, even if your card is lost or stolen unnoticed. In addition, this way, you will not exceed your daily limit. A checking account helps you avoid unpleasant situations related to debit card failure.
Spend Using Credit
Using a credit card is a very tempting option, especially for those who need additional funds. This card also has many advantages. For example, it is considered to be more secure than debit cards. With it, you may be able to keep your finances safe as well. Credit union often provide a variety of interesting bonuses and incentives, such as cash back. However, you need to be more responsible when using such cards. After all, you need to pay off the entire debt on time to avoid high interest on the loan.
Get a Prepaid Debit Card
Using a debit card online is a luxury that everyone can experience. However, a prepaid debit card is also available. It is considered to be more efficient and secure. Therefore, it is better at preventing possible card rejection. It works on the principle of preloading money to the card before using it. You load the amount of money you have on the card and use it just like a regular debit or credit card. It also needs to be activated in advance. All possible problems related to it may be resolved immediately.