Payments & Declines

Incorrect CVV

The security code provided does not match what the issuer has on file.

Definition

What does "incorrect CVV" mean?

Incorrect CVV (Card Verification Value) is a decline code returned when the three- or four-digit security code provided with the transaction does not match the issuer's records. The CVV is the number on the back of Visa/Mastercard cards (or front of Amex cards) used to verify the cardholder has physical possession of the card.

Why CVV declines occur on subscriptions

CVV mismatches on recurring charges are rare because most subscription billing systems store a token rather than the CVV itself, and subsequent recurring charges do not require CVV re-verification. When this decline does appear on a subscription, it typically means the initial card entry had an error, or the billing system is misconfigured to request CVV on renewals.

Recovery approach

Incorrect CVV is a hard decline for the specific transaction. Retrying with the same credentials will produce the same result. The customer needs to re-enter their card details with the correct CVV. Send a payment update prompt with a clear, simple form. Once the correct credentials are stored, future recurring charges will process normally.

Related Terms

→ Dunning

→ Chargeback

→ MRR (Monthly Recurring Revenue)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would a CVV mismatch happen on a recurring subscription charge?

It's rare on renewals since most systems don't re-verify CVV. When it occurs, it usually means the initial card entry had an error or the billing system is misconfigured to request CVV on recurring charges.

Can I retry an incorrect CVV decline?

No. Retrying with the same stored credentials will produce the same decline. The customer must re-enter their card details with the correct CVV.

How do I prevent CVV errors going forward?

Ensure your checkout form validates CVV at initial signup and your billing system does not unnecessarily request CVV on recurring charges. Using network tokens also bypasses CVV requirements entirely.