Issuer or Switch Unavailable
The card issuer's authorization system or the network switch is temporarily unavailable. The transaction cannot be processed at this moment, but the issue is not related to the card or account.
Why does code 91 occur?
- Issuer's authorization system under maintenance or experiencing downtime
- Network switch connectivity failure
- System overload at the issuing bank during peak transaction volume
- Routing failure between card network and issuer
Can this transaction be retried?
Yes, code 91 is a soft, retryable decline. You can retry the transaction after a delay of 24-48 hours. Card networks typically allow up to 15 retries (Visa) or 10 retries (Mastercard) per billing cycle for soft declines. Use exponential backoff to space out retries.
What merchants should do
Wait 2-5 minutes and retry the transaction. If it fails repeatedly, the issuer may be experiencing an extended outage. Offer the customer an alternative payment method. Monitor for network-wide outage notifications from your processor.
What cardholders should do
This is a temporary issue with your bank's system, not with your card. Wait a few minutes and try again. If it continues, try a different card from another bank.
Code 91 at a glance
Response Code
91
Name
Issuer or Switch Unavailable
Category
soft decline
Retryable
Yes — after delay
Related Decline Codes
System Malfunction
A system error has occurred somewhere in the payment processing chain — at the processor, network, or issuer. This is a temporary technical failure unrelated to the card or account.
Re-enter Transaction
A temporary error occurred during processing and the issuer is requesting that the transaction be resubmitted. This is not a decline due to card or account issues.
More tools for payment teams
Free utilities built on the same data that powers Fyatu's card issuing platform. No sign-up, no rate limits.
BIN Checker
Look up any card BIN (Bank Identification Number) to find the card brand, type, issuing bank, and country.
Look up a BINCurrency Converter
Convert between 150+ world currencies with live exchange rates. Free, fast, and always up to date.
Convert currencySWIFT/BIC Lookup
Look up bank details from a SWIFT/BIC code or search by bank name to find the right code for international transfers.
Find a SWIFT codeDecline Code 91 FAQ
Frequently asked questions about decline code 91: Issuer or Switch Unavailable.