What Is Visa Chargeback Code 12.7: Invalid Data?
Visa chargeback code 12.7, “Invalid Data,” arises when a transaction is processed with incorrect cardholder or payment details. Cardholders can dispute for up to 120 days, while merchants have 30 days to submit proof, so cases often last several weeks. Stop it early by triple‑checking every field, using AVS/CVV/3‑D Secure, and keeping clear records.
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What Are Common Causes of Chargeback Code 12.7?
The “Invalid Data” chargeback can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Incorrect cardholder information entered (e.g., name, address, card number).
- Inaccurate transaction details (e.g., amount, date).
- Authorization request with an invalid MCC
- Invalid or expired card used for the transaction.
- Errors in merchant’s transaction data submission.
What Is The Time Frame for Resolution of Invalid Data Code 12.7?
For both consumers and merchants, the chargeback process involves several stages with specific time frames:
- Consumer: Cardholders typically have up to 120 days from the transaction date to initiate a chargeback.
- Merchant: Once the chargeback is received, merchants generally have 30 days to respond and provide evidence to dispute the chargeback.
How Do I Prevent Chargeback Code 12.7: Invalid Data?
The best ways to prevent Visa 12.7 “Invalid Data” chargebacks is by verifying every card detail up front, running AVS, CVV, and 3‑D Secure checks, and using billing descriptors customers instantly recognize. Support those safeguards with prompt, helpful customer service and rock‑solid transaction logs. If a dispute still arrives, gather your receipts and communication records, respond within 30 days, and tighten any weak data‑entry or review steps so it doesn’t happen again.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of best practices:
- Data Accuracy:
- Ensure all transaction data is accurate and complete before processing.
- Verify cardholder information and transaction details.
- Card Validation:
- Use advanced card verification methods like CVV, AVS (Address Verification Service), and 3D Secure to confirm cardholder identity.
- Ensure the card used is valid and not expired.
- Clear Communication:
- Provide clear and accurate billing descriptors that match the merchant name or product/service name recognizable to the cardholder.
- Inform customers about transaction details, including amount and date, to avoid confusion.
- Robust Internal Processes:
- Implement thorough transaction review processes to detect and correct any data inaccuracies before submission.
- Maintain clear records and documentation for all transactions, including customer communications and authorization logs.
- Customer Service:
- Offer excellent customer service to handle any disputes or inquiries promptly before they escalate to chargebacks.
- Provide easy ways for customers to contact you regarding any issues with their transactions
How Do I Mitigate The Affects of Code 12.7: Invalid Data?
If a chargeback for reason code 12.7 is received, take the following steps to mitigate its impact:
- Gather Evidence:
- Collect all relevant documentation, such as transaction records, receipts, and communication logs.
- Ensure the evidence clearly shows the validity and accuracy of the transaction data.
- Respond Promptly:
- Submit a timely and comprehensive response to the chargeback, including all gathered evidence, within the specified response period (typically 30 days).
- Review and Improve Processes:
- Analyze the chargeback to identify the root cause.
- Implement improvements in your transaction processing and data verification practices to prevent future occurrences.
