service_not_allowed
This merchant category code (MCC) isn't allowed for the card.
What just happened
Some cards (HSA/FSA, prepaid, business) restrict spending by category.
Retry strategy
Don't retry. Need a different card.
What to tell the customer
Your card type doesn't allow charges for this service. Please use a different card.
Recommended action
Send update-card email. Halt retries.
Want to see what this looks like on your Stripe?
See how often "service_not_allowed" hits your Stripe account in the last 30 days — and how much MRR is at risk because of it.
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is "service_not_allowed" a soft or hard decline?+
It's classified as a hard decline: Permanent issue with the card. Retries will keep failing — you need a new payment method from the customer.
Should I retry a "service_not_allowed" decline?+
Don't retry. Need a different card.
What should I tell my customer when this happens?+
Your card type doesn't allow charges for this service. Please use a different card.
How do I prevent this decline going forward?+
Send update-card email. Halt retries.
Does Rechurn handle this decline code automatically?+
Yes. Rechurn classifies "service_not_allowed" and runs the optimal retry cadence with a personalized email sequence. Run a free audit to see how many of your failed charges are this code.