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Payment Processing Errors

What are the causes of payment processing errors and how can they be resolved?

Emily McClendon avatar
Written by Emily McClendon
Updated over a week ago

Understanding Payment Processing Errors and Resolution Steps

When using the Practice by Numbers (PbN) platform for payment processing, users may occasionally encounter errors that prevent a transaction from successfully going through. Below, we outline the causes of these errors and provide guidance on resolution.

Common Payment Errors and Their Causes

Several reasons may contribute to payment errors:

  1. Issuer-Generated Errors (e.g., 'Invalid Format' or 'Insufficient Funds') - Errors like 'invalid format' or 'insufficient funds' are not generated by PbN but by the card issuer (e.g., VISA, Mastercard). - Some cards, such as FSA cards or certain gift cards, may not be compatible with PbN's payment processing system due to their format. - Transactions may fail due to insufficient funds. For example, if an account holds only $1.01, attempting a transaction for a higher amount like $660 will result in a decline.

  2. Unsupported Card Types (e.g., Maestro Cards) - PbN does not support certain card types, including Maestro-branded cards. Payments attempted with unsupported cards will fail regardless of their activity or available balance.

Resolution Steps for Payment Issues

Follow these steps to address payment errors:

  1. Verify Card Compatibility - Ensure that the card being used is supported by the Practice by Numbers platform. Contact the service's support team or consult the FAQ for the list of compatible card types.

  2. Check Issuer Policies - If you encounter errors like 'invalid format,' contact the card issuer (e.g., VISA, Mastercard) to ensure the card is suitable for the type of transaction being attempted.

  3. Confirm Fund Availability - Verify that the card has sufficient funds for the intended transaction. If unsure, consult your bank or insurance provider.

  4. Contact Issuer or Insurance Provider - For issues arising from the card's format or fund-related declines, reach out to the card issuer or insurance provider to resolve the discrepancy.

By understanding common causes and taking these steps, most payment issues on PbN can be addressed effectively.

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