Stripe decline codes / expired_card

Stripe expired_card: what it means and how to fix it

expired_card means the card's expiry date has passed. Retrying with the same details will not work: the customer, or an automatic card update, has to provide fresh details.

Decline code: expired_card
Type: Card update needed
Who can fix it: The customer
Will a retry help?: No: do not retry

What it means

The card has passed its expiry date. Card networks refresh many cards automatically, but this one was not.

The card on file is expired, wrong or closed. Retrying will fail every time; only the customer can replace it.

Why it happens

The card on file reached its expiry date and the customer has not replaced it.
A replacement card was issued but the old details are still saved.
The expiry date was entered incorrectly when the card was added.

What to do

Do not keep retrying with the same details.
Email the customer a secure link to update their card.
Check whether the card networks already refreshed the details automatically: this does not cover every card.
For upcoming renewals, identify cards that expire soon and ask for an update in advance.
Confirm the new card works with a successful payment.

Should you retry?

Retrying with the same expired details will fail. Only retry once the customer has added a new card or the details have been refreshed.

Customer email template

Neutral wording for this situation. Replace {name}, {product}, {link} and {company}.

Hi {name},

The card we have on file for {product} can no longer be charged (it looks expired or invalid). To keep your access, please add a new card here: {link}

Thanks,
{company}

Handling many failed payments? See how FlowMRR helps you prioritize failed Stripe payments by revenue at risk. Want a ranked list from your own account? Try the free failed payment audit.

Try FlowMRR free

Frequently asked questions

Can Stripe update expired cards automatically?

For some cards, yes: card networks and issuers can share updated details and Stripe uses them where available. It does not cover every card or bank, so you still need a fallback email.

How can I prevent expired_card failures?

Find the cards that expire in the next few months and ask those customers to update before the renewal. FlowMRR's free Expire tool lists them from your Stripe data.