Stripe decline code
issuer_not_available
Stripe could not reach the card issuer to authorize the charge. This is a connectivity issue, not a card problem.
Quick answer
issuer_not_available is a soft decline. A smartly timed retry can succeed on its own.
| Decline code | issuer_not_available |
|---|---|
| Type | Soft (often temporary) |
| Retrying helps? | Yes, on smart timing |
| Category | Technical |
| Customer fix | None needed. |
Will retrying help?
Yes, a timed retry can succeed
Retry after a short delay. Almost always resolves on its own once the issuer is reachable.
A real example
Stripe cannot reach the customer's bank to authorize, so an otherwise valid charge fails.
What the customer needs to do
None needed.
Your recovery approach
Retry after a short delay. Almost always resolves on its own once the issuer is reachable.
Copy-paste recovery email
Subject
We hit a snag with your payment
A temporary error stopped your [Product] payment, nothing on your end.
We will automatically retry shortly and only follow up if it does not clear.
Recover issuer_not_available declines on autopilot
SubRevival reads every decline code and responds correctly, retrying soft declines on smart timing and emailing customers for hard ones, with a hosted card update page. $19/mo flat.
FAQ
What does the Stripe "issuer_not_available" decline code mean?
Stripe could not reach the card issuer to authorize the charge. This is a connectivity issue, not a card problem.
Will retrying a "issuer_not_available" decline work?
Often, yes. issuer_not_available is a soft decline, so a smartly timed retry can succeed without the customer doing anything. Retry after a short delay. Almost always resolves on its own once the issuer is reachable.
How do I recover a payment that failed with "issuer_not_available"?
Retry after a short delay. Almost always resolves on its own once the issuer is reachable. Customer action: None needed.
Related decline codes
Source: official Stripe decline codes documentation. Recovery guidance is SubRevival's own.