Stripe decline code

generic_decline

The bank declined the charge and didn't share a specific reason — a generic refusal similar to card_declined.

Primary source: Stripe’s official decline codes reference

Why it happens

• The issuer withheld the precise reason for security.
• A risk or fraud check blocked the charge.
• A temporary account restriction.

Should you retry it?

Sometimes — it depends on the issuer

Without a specific reason, the outcome varies: some clear on retry, others need the customer to act. A measured retry plus a reminder is the safe approach.

How to recover it

Retry on a moderate schedule and email the customer so they can update their card or contact their bank if needed.

Let Stripe's retry schedule run first. For invoices that stay unpaid after it ends, Recoverly opens a case and — with your approval — sends a 3-step payment-update sequence (Day 0 / 3 / 7) linking to Stripe's hosted payment page.

Related decline codes

• card_declined
• do_not_honor
• processing_error

Written by the Recoverly team · Published June 25, 2026 · Last reviewed July 17, 2026

Recoverly finds invoices Stripe’s retries left unpaid and — with your approval — sends payment-update emails, then verifies what actually came back. This page is informational and not affiliated with Stripe.