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If you have a different card, try that instead. Sometimes there is an issue with a certain card

Sometimes Visa Debits can cause a problem. Here are some reasons: Reason 1: You don’t have enough funds This is the most common cause of a debit card being declined, and one that you can easily avoid by keeping careful track of your spending money. Unless you have overdraft protection, most banks will not allow you to make a purchase or withdrawal that goes beyond your available balance. How to avoid it: See if your financial institution offers a mobile app that shows your up-to-date balances and transactions. Check this before making your purchases to ensure you have enough funds. Reason 2: You’ve entered the wrong PIN The personal identification number (PIN) you chose must be entered correctly in order for some transactions to be allowed. If you enter that number incorrectly, the transaction will automatically be declined. How to avoid it: Memorize your PIN and try not to confuse the cards if you have more than one account with a linked debit card. It’s never suggested that you write the PIN on the card or keep it in your wallet. This will make it easier for a thief to access your account if your wallet or purse is stolen. Reason 3: You’ve reached your withdrawal limit To help protect your funds, most financial institutions will have daily withdrawal limits on your accounts. This will often be a combination of ATM and purchases and can prohibit you from getting the cash you need. How to avoid it: Be familiar with the daily withdrawal limits on your accounts. If you know you’ll need to exceed them, inform the bank ahead of time. In most cases they will extend the daily limit. Reason 4: It’s expired Some debit cards also have expiration dates like credit cards. If yours has expired, it won’t be accepted at ATMs or for purchases. How to avoid it: Check the date and know when the debit card is due to expire. Ask for your replacement card well in advance to avoid losing access to your account. Make sure you destroy the old card, as it does contain personal information you don’t want others to get a hold of. Reason 5: The information you’ve entered doesn’t match your personal details This is common with online purchases.The merchant takes extra precautions to verify your identity by asking for personal information such as the name on the card and your address. If you have entered anything incorrectly, you won’t be able to make your purchase. How to avoid it: Before making a purchase online check that the personal information you entered matches that of the credit card you’re using. Reason 6: Your bank was suspicious of the transaction Most banks reserve the right to decline any transaction they deem to be out of character with your normal spending or withdrawal habits. In most cases this can be cleared up at the register with a quick call to the bank, but it still could cause you some embarrassment. Some banks have security features in place and can be a little too safe and block authentic transactions. How to avoid it: If you have plans on making a large purchase, notify your bank beforehand to get pre-authorization. What to do if your bank account is frozen Reason 7: You’ve made an international purchase Many accounts now offer Visa or Mastercard debit cards, which allow you to use them when traveling overseas. This is a convenient and secure way to make your overseas purchases and ATM withdrawals. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work the way you intended, and you could find yourself without access to your money if your debit card is declined. Compare the best debit cards to use overseas How to avoid it: Familiarize yourself with the ATM networks that accept your debit card overseas. Inform the bank before making your trip so they won’t flag your purchases as unusual activity. This should help to make sure your money is available. Reason 8: Technical issues While there are many situations where you could be at fault for a declined card, that’s not always the case. Merchants and banks sometimes have issues processing debit transactions, even when you’ve done everything right. It could be due to their Internet connection, too many transactions processed at once, a power failure somewhere along the network or a handful of other reasons. How to avoid it: While you can’t avoid having your card declined when it’s the bank’s or merchant’s fault, you can try again. Ask to try another terminal or consider waiting until the system is up and running again. Reason 9: Your joint account holder deactivated your card If you’ve opened a joint banking account with your spouse, partner or other family member they’re allowed to deactivate your debit card without permission from you. If this happens, you won’t be able to make purchases or withdrawing cash. How to avoid it: With a joint account you can require that both account holders sign for any major changes, including adding or deactivating any debit cards. Also, don’t open a joint bank account with someone you don’t fully trust, and always communicate with each other about any changes being made to the account.

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