Category: Payment Processing

  • Credit Card Decline Code 03: Invalid Merchant (solution)

    Payment gateways are powerful, but not always informative—at least not directly. Whenever a transaction fails or even succeeds, the gateway displays a response code. When the transaction is successful, we don’t really care about the gateway response. But when it fails, that error code is quite insightful. If you’re suffering from too many credit card…

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  • Stripe Account Frozen? Get Your Stripe Back!

    Imagine checking your Stripe dashboard on a busy Monday morning only to find your account frozen and thousands in payments stuck in limbo. Your business isn’t alone in facing this challenge. While Stripe remains one of the most popular payment processors for online businesses, their strict risk management policies can catch even legitimate businesses off…

    Hand holding a mobile phone with a "Stripe" logo in front of a blurry outdoor background
  • Issuer Declined MCC Errors and How to Avoid Them

    When it comes to accepting credit card payments, there are many factors that can contribute to a declined transaction. One of the most common reasons for transaction declines is an “Issuer Declined MCC” message. The Merchant Category Code (MCC) is a four-digit code that classifies businesses into different categories based on the products or services…

    Credit card swiping through a credit card reader and getting declined.
  • ShopifyShutDownMyStore! How to Get It Back

    The dreaded Shopify email no store owner wants to see: “Your store has been deactivated.” Trust me, I’ve helped hundreds of merchants through this exact crisis, and I know the panic that sets in when your livelihood suddenly vanishes. Your store, your products, your customers – all seemingly gone in an instant. If you’re searching…

    Vintage retro looking Closed sign in a shop showroom with reflections
  • How to Accept Credit Card Payments Without a Merchant Account

    I’ve seen the same story unfold too many times. You’ve launched your online store, sales are flowing in, and suddenly – bam! Your payment processor freezes your account. Your funds are locked up for 180 days, and your business grinds to a halt. Many entrepreneurs rush to sign up with a popular payment processor, thinking…

    Two credit cards on top of a laptop computer keyboard.