Stripe decline code
lost_card
The card was reported lost. The issuer returns a generic decline to avoid tipping off potential fraud.
Quick answer
lost_card is a hard decline. Retrying will keep failing; the customer has to act.
| Decline code | lost_card |
|---|---|
| Type | Hard (needs customer action) |
| Retrying helps? | No |
| Category | Fraud or security |
| Customer fix | Add a different, active card. |
Will retrying help?
No, retrying will keep failing
Do not retry. Send a dunning email requesting a brand-new card.
A real example
The customer reported the card lost, and the bank silently declines the recurring charge.
What the customer needs to do
Add a different, active card.
Your recovery approach
Do not retry. Send a dunning email requesting a brand-new card.
Copy-paste recovery email
Subject
Quick check on your [Product] payment
Your bank flagged our charge as suspicious, even though it is your legitimate [Product] renewal.
Please confirm the charge with your bank, or add a different card below, and we will get you sorted.
Recover lost_card declines on autopilot
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FAQ
What does the Stripe "lost_card" decline code mean?
The card was reported lost. The issuer returns a generic decline to avoid tipping off potential fraud.
Will retrying a "lost_card" decline work?
No. lost_card is a hard decline, so retrying the same card will keep failing. Do not retry. Send a dunning email requesting a brand-new card.
How do I recover a payment that failed with "lost_card"?
Do not retry. Send a dunning email requesting a brand-new card. Customer action: Add a different, active card.
Related decline codes
Source: official Stripe decline codes documentation. Recovery guidance is SubRevival's own.