Has this happened to you? A customer is ready to complete a purchase, with a credit card in hand. They input their card information and click “submit”—only to be met with an unexpected decline. Confused and frustrated, they abandon their cart. You’ve just lost a sale. If you accept credit card transactions, declined payments are an all-too-common headache. One of the most frequent and perplexing declines is credit card decline code 57. Getting a +57 code can leave both merchants and customers scratching their heads, but knowing the underlying reasons can help you resolve the matter.
What Is Credit Card Decline Code 57?
At its core, code 57 is a credit card chargeback reason code. When a customer attempts a purchase, the merchant sends the transaction to the customer’s bank which either approves or rejects it. If rejected the bank will return a code, and code 57 means that the transaction was declined because it is not permitted by the card’s configuration. In other words, the card being used has certain restrictions placed on it that block this specific type of transaction. This code might be referred to as “decline code 57,” “card code 57,” or “reason code 57,” but they all point to the same issue, the customer’s card issuer is refusing to authorize the transaction based on pre-set limits or restrictions.
Common Reasons for Code 57 Declines
Several issues can trigger a code 57, and knowing them can help prevent them in the future. Firstly, incorrect account information such as a typo when entering their card number, expiration date, or CVV code. Outdated information, like a past billing address, can also cause a denial. Secondly, insufficient funds can cause code 57 meaning the customer attempts a purchase that exceeds their credit limit or overdraws a debit card. This is more likely with larger purchases or several rapid transactions. Thirdly, card restrictions such as geographic restrictions, merchant category limits for certain types of purchases, or spending limits. Finally, suspicious activity caused by unusual buying habits can trigger a code 57 as banks have fraud monitoring systems.
How to Resolve a Code 57 Decline
While a code 57 might seem like a dead end, most situations can be easily resolved with good communication between merchant and customer. If you’re a customer, you need to contact your bank and explain that your transaction was declined with a Code 57. Ask them for the specific reason for the decline and if it was blocked due to suspected fraud or a merchant restriction. If asked, request a lift on the block. As a merchant, you should communicate calmly and clearly with the customer about the issue. Politely suggest the customer recheck their information or use an alternative payment method.
Key Takeaways for Merchants
In conclusion, code 57 indicates that a transaction wasn’t permitted due to card restrictions. These restrictions can range from simple errors to potential fraud concerns. By understanding the common triggers and knowing how to take action to resolve the issue, merchants can turn potential lost sales into opportunities.
