Stripe decline code
invalid_cvc
The CVC security code is not valid for this card.
Quick answer
invalid_cvc is a hard decline. Retrying will keep failing; the customer has to act.
| Decline code | invalid_cvc |
|---|---|
| Type | Hard (needs customer action) |
| Retrying helps? | No |
| Category | Card details |
| Customer fix | Re-enter a valid CVC. |
Will retrying help?
No, retrying will keep failing
Route to a secure card update form. No value in retrying the stored details.
A real example
The CVC on file is not valid for the card, blocking the charge until it is re-entered.
What the customer needs to do
Re-enter a valid CVC.
Your recovery approach
Route to a secure card update form. No value in retrying the stored details.
Copy-paste recovery email
Subject
Your payment didn't go through, [First Name]
A detail on your saved card did not match, so the charge for [Product] was declined.
Re-enter your card details and we will retry right away.
Recover invalid_cvc declines on autopilot
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FAQ
What does the Stripe "invalid_cvc" decline code mean?
The CVC security code is not valid for this card.
Will retrying a "invalid_cvc" decline work?
No. invalid_cvc is a hard decline, so retrying the same card will keep failing. Route to a secure card update form. No value in retrying the stored details.
How do I recover a payment that failed with "invalid_cvc"?
Route to a secure card update form. No value in retrying the stored details. Customer action: Re-enter a valid CVC.
Related decline codes
Source: official Stripe decline codes documentation. Recovery guidance is SubRevival's own.