Blocked — First Use
The card has been issued but not yet activated. Many issuers require cardholders to activate new or replacement cards before they can be used for transactions.
Why does code 78 occur?
- New card not yet activated by cardholder
- Replacement card requires separate activation step
- Card was mailed but cardholder hasn't confirmed receipt
- Virtual card issued but not yet linked to wallet or activated
Can this transaction be retried?
No, code 78 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
Ask the customer to activate their card through their bank (via phone, mobile app, or ATM) before retrying the transaction.
What cardholders should do
Activate your new card before using it. You can typically do this by calling the number on the activation sticker, logging into your bank's app, or making a PIN transaction at an ATM.
Code 78 at a glance
Response Code
78
Name
Blocked — First Use
Category
hard decline
Retryable
No
Related Decline Codes
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.
Restricted Card
The card has been restricted by the issuing bank and cannot be used for any transactions. This is a broad block that is typically applied for compliance, regulatory, or security reasons.
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Find a SWIFT codeDecline Code 78 FAQ
Frequently asked questions about decline code 78: Blocked — First Use.