Stripe decline code
incorrect_zipThe ZIP or postal code entered does not match the billing address the bank has on file for this card.
Type
Recoverable
Frequency
Commonincorrect_zip is triggered by the Address Verification System (AVS). Stripe can be configured to block payments with AVS failures. Some failures are legitimate (customer moved, updated address with bank but not with you); others are card-testing fraud. How you handle it depends on your Stripe Radar configuration.
Do not retry with the same ZIP. Send the customer to a card update flow that asks for a corrected billing ZIP.
Prompt the customer to check the ZIP/postal code on file with their card issuer and re-enter.
Permanent issue. The card cannot be charged. Customer must provide a new payment method.
AVS is primarily a US and Canadian system. For UK and European cards, postal code checks are less reliable and many issuers do not return them.
Yes, through Stripe Radar rules. Be cautious: disabling AVS can increase fraud exposure. Stripe documents the tradeoffs in the Radar section of the dashboard.
How Rebounce handles incorrect_zip
Rebounce classifies every failed payment by its Stripe decline code and applies the optimal recovery strategy automatically. For incorrect_zip, that means a limited retry window combined with customer outreach. Multi-channel follow-up through email, SMS, WhatsApp, and in-app banners ensures the customer actually sees the message.