# gateway.transaction_authorization.pre_authorization_failure

> For the complete machine-readable documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://apidocs.chargebee.com/llms.txt).


**gateway**

The preauthorization failed. This happens when there is insufficient balance or credit limit, the payment method has restrictions, payment details are incorrect, or the bank or issuer declined the preauthorization.

## Recommended Customer Message

The transaction could not be completed due to a preauthorization failure. Please ensure your payment method is valid and has sufficient balance or contact your bank for assistance.

## Root Cause[](#root-cause)

-   **Insufficient balance or credit limit:** The customer's account does not have enough funds to reserve the preauthorization amount.
-   **Payment method restrictions:** The card or payment method has limitations that prevent preauthorization transactions.
-   **Incorrect payment details:** Invalid or outdated card information caused the preauthorization attempt to fail.
-   **Bank or issuer declined:** The bank flagged the preauthorization request as invalid or suspicious and declined it.

## Troubleshooting and Solutions[](#troubleshooting-and-solutions)

-   Recommend checking that the payment details provided are accurate and up to date.
-   Ask the customer to verify that their payment method has sufficient funds or available credit for the transaction.
-   Suggest using a different payment method if the issue persists.
-   Advise the customer to contact their bank to understand why the preauthorization failed and resolve any account or card restrictions.
-   Retry the transaction only after confirming that the payment method is valid and capable of completing preauthorization.