What Does the ‘Do Not Honour’ Message Mean?

A “Do Not Honour” message is a payment decline code from the card-issuing bank to the merchant’s bank, indicating a transaction cannot be approved. This generic message does not provide a specific reason for the decline, leaving both the cardholder and the merchant without immediate clarity.

Understanding “Do Not Honour”

When a transaction results in a “Do Not Honour” message, the cardholder’s bank has decided not to authorize the payment. This code signifies a bank-level decision, distinct from a simple lack of funds or an expired card. The bank communicates this refusal to the merchant’s bank, but the precise underlying reason remains undisclosed. It acts as a catch-all decline code when the issuing bank will not approve the transaction without specifying why.

Common Reasons for the Decline

Several factors can lead a bank to issue a “Do Not Honour” message, often related to security protocols or account status. A primary reason involves suspected fraud, where the bank’s automated systems flag the transaction as unusual or potentially fraudulent activity. This could be triggered by an unusually high transaction amount, a purchase outside the cardholder’s typical spending patterns, or even transactions made from an unexpected geographical location, such as during international travel. Many modern banks notify cardholders via email or text messages about suspicious activity, prompting them to confirm the validity of recent purchases.

Account restrictions or holds can also result in this decline code. This might occur if the cardholder has exceeded their daily spending or credit limit, or if the account has temporary holds. Incorrect card details entered during a transaction, such as a wrong card number, expiration date, or Card Verification Value (CVV/CVC), can also lead to a “Do Not Honour” message. A discrepancy between the Address Verification System (AVS) and CVV/CVC, used for identity verification, is a common cause for online purchases.

Technical glitches or communication issues between banks or processing networks can sometimes cause a “Do Not Honour” decline. These temporary disruptions can prevent a transaction from being authorized. The card may also have been reported lost or stolen.

Steps to Take After a “Do Not Honour” Message

When faced with a “Do Not Honour” message, the most effective initial step is to contact your card-issuing bank directly. The customer service number is typically located on the back of your card, and speaking with a representative can help identify the specific reason for the decline and potentially resolve the issue. The bank can often provide details that are not disclosed at the point of sale, such as a fraud alert or an account restriction.

If the transaction is time-sensitive, consider trying an alternative payment method, such as a different credit or debit card, or another form of payment like a digital wallet. This can allow you to complete your purchase while you investigate the issue with your primary card. It is also advisable to check your online banking account for any alerts, recent transaction history, or messages from your bank that might explain the decline.

While a temporary glitch might resolve itself, repeatedly attempting the same transaction without contacting your bank first is generally not recommended, as it could trigger further fraud alerts or even temporarily lock your card. If the bank indicates a temporary hold or a need for verification, they can usually guide you through the process to clear the transaction or lift any restrictions on your account.