What it means
The card security code (CVC) did not match what the bank holds on record.
← All Stripe decline codes
Card update requiredHard decline
incorrect_cvc
CVC check failed
Category
Hard decline
Retryable
No — update the card
Suggested retry
No auto-retry
Why it happens
Usually a typo at checkout, or a saved card with stale details after a reissue.
How to recover the payment
Request the card details again. Retrying the same card will keep failing.
Category tip: Not worth retrying automatically until the card is updated.
Recovery email preview
Subject: Action needed — your payment did not go through
We could not verify your card security code. Re-enter your card to continue.
Update payment methodSent automatically by churnguardian the moment this code appears.
How churnguardian handles it
churnguardian stops automatic retries and emails the customer a one-click link to update their card, so recovery happens as soon as they act.
- Decline-aware retries timed to recovery odds
- Branded recovery emails with a one-click card update
- Stops automatically the moment the charge clears
At a glance
- Retryable
- No
- Retry window
- No auto-retry
- Card must be replaced
- Yes
Frequently asked
What does the Stripe decline code incorrect_cvc mean?+
The card security code (CVC) did not match what the bank holds on record.
Is the Stripe decline code incorrect_cvc retryable?+
Request the card details again. Retrying the same card will keep failing.
How do I recover a payment declined with incorrect_cvc?+
Request the card details again. Retrying the same card will keep failing.
What should I send the customer for incorrect_cvc?+
We could not verify your card security code. Re-enter your card to continue.
Related hard decline codes
card_not_supportedCard type not supportedcurrency_not_supportedCurrency not supported by cardexpired_cardCard has expiredincorrect_numberCard number is incorrectincorrect_zipZIP/postal code check failedinvalid_cardCard is invalid
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