75 | PIN tries exceeded
This code indicates the authorization was declined because the allowable number of PIN entry attempts was exceeded.
What This Code Means
Response code 75 (“PIN tries exceeded”) is returned when the issuer determines that too many incorrect PIN attempts have occurred, triggering a PIN retry limit. This is a security control used to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. The issuer tracks PIN validation attempts and enforces thresholds. When the threshold is exceeded, the issuer declines further PIN-required transactions until the security status changes. This code is not a funds decline and does not indicate the card is expired. It reflects a security lockout condition tied to PIN validation.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- ATM or debit PIN transaction declines
- POS terminal declines for PIN-based purchases
- Processor authorization logs showing response code 75
Why This Code Appears
- Multiple incorrect PIN attempts occurred
- Issuer security thresholds were reached
- PIN validation status is locked for the account
- A prior sequence of attempts triggered a temporary restriction
What Typically Happens Next
- PIN-required transactions are declined
- Merchant or terminal records a PIN tries exceeded response
- Additional PIN attempts may continue to be rejected until issuer security status changes
What This Code Is Not
- It is not insufficient funds (see 51)
- It is not an issuer outage (see 91)
- It is not a restricted card policy decline (see 62), though the practical effect may resemble restriction
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Record the response code and transaction type for support tracking
- □ Avoid assuming a funds or account closure issue based solely on this code
- □ Follow official issuer support pathways for PIN status inquiries
- □ Monitor whether non-PIN transactions behave differently in the same period
Notes And Edge Cases
PIN retry thresholds differ by issuer and may vary by transaction type. Some issuers apply separate counters for ATM withdrawals versus point-of-sale PIN purchases. In some cases, PIN lockouts can occur after a series of attempts across different channels within a short timeframe. The response code does not specify how long the lockout lasts or which attempts counted; it indicates only that the threshold was exceeded.