Invalid Transaction
The transaction type is not supported or not allowed for this card. The card may not be configured for the type of purchase attempted, or the request format is incorrect.
Why does code 12 occur?
- Card not enabled for e-commerce transactions
- Transaction type (e.g., refund, pre-auth) not supported by the card product
- POS terminal or gateway configuration error
- Mismatch between transaction type code and card capability
Can this transaction be retried?
No, code 12 is a hard decline and should not be retried. The underlying issue is permanent and the same card details will continue to be declined. Ask the customer for an alternative payment method.
What merchants should do
Check that the transaction type (sale, refund, pre-auth) matches the card capabilities. Verify your terminal or gateway is sending the correct transaction type code. Ask for an alternative payment method.
What cardholders should do
Try a different payment method. Your card may not support this type of transaction (e.g., it may not be enabled for e-commerce or certain merchant categories).
Code 12 at a glance
Response Code
12
Name
Invalid Transaction
Category
hard decline
Retryable
No
Related Decline Codes
Error
A general processing error occurred during the transaction. The issuer or network encountered an unspecified error that prevented the transaction from completing.
Transaction Not Permitted to Cardholder
The card is not allowed to perform this type of transaction. The restriction is set at the card product level or by the cardholder's issuer based on the card's configuration.
Transaction Not Allowed — Terminal
The transaction is not allowed at this terminal or merchant. The restriction is based on the merchant's terminal type, configuration, or the acquiring bank's rules.
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Find a SWIFT codeDecline Code 12 FAQ
Frequently asked questions about decline code 12: Invalid Transaction.