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All Decline Codes
13

Invalid Amount

hard decline Do not retry

The transaction amount is invalid — it may be zero, negative, exceed per-transaction limits, or contain formatting errors in the authorization message.

Why does code 13 occur?

  • Amount exceeds per-transaction limit set by issuer
  • Zero or negative amount submitted in authorization request
  • Currency formatting error (e.g., $1.00 sent as 1 instead of 100 minor units)
  • Amount exceeds maximum allowed by card network for this MCC

Can this transaction be retried?

No, code 13 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

Verify the transaction amount is correct, non-zero, and within valid ranges. Check for currency formatting issues (e.g., wrong decimal placement or minor units). Resubmit with a corrected amount.

What cardholders should do

The transaction amount may exceed your single-transaction limit. Try a smaller amount or contact your bank to adjust your limits.

Code 13 at a glance

Response Code

13

Name

Invalid Amount

Category

hard decline

Retryable

No

FAQ

Decline Code 13 FAQ

Frequently asked questions about decline code 13: Invalid Amount.

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