How do I fix a "Payment Not Authorized" error with a VCC on Facebook Ads?

If you're seeing a "Payment Not Authorized" error with a Virtual Credit Card (VCC) on Facebook Ads, it typically means that Facebook's payment system couldn't complete the transaction due to one of the following reasons:

Insufficient Funds

VCC Restrictions

Billing Information Mismatch

Security Flags or Risk Detection

Expired VCC or Temporary Card Issues

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fix the "Payment Not Authorized" error with your VCC:

🛠� How to Fix the "Payment Not Authorized" Error
✅ Step 1: Check Your VCC Balance
Ensure your VCC has sufficient funds to cover the Facebook Ads charges.

Some VCCs have daily or monthly limits — ensure your available balance is above the required charge.

If your VCC is low on balance, add more funds or try a different payment method.

✅ Step 2: Verify the Billing Information
Ensure your VCC's billing details (name, address, and phone number) match exactly with the information used in your Facebook Ads account and Business Manager.

Even slight mismatches can cause Facebook to reject the payment.

If you're using a VCC from a different provider (like Privacy.com), make sure the billing address is correct and consistent.

✅ Step 3: Ensure the VCC is Active
Check that the VCC is still active and not expired or deactivated.

If you're using a temporary VCC, verify it hasn't expired.

Some VCC providers require activation for online transactions, so make sure your card is ready for use.

✅ Step 4: Check for Payment Authorization Holds
Sometimes, Facebook may place an authorization hold on your card to verify it. This may temporarily make the VCC unavailable for new charges.

Wait a few hours or check your transaction history for any pending authorization holds. The system may drop them once the verification is complete.

✅ Step 5: Remove and Re-add the VCC
If the issue persists, try removing the VCC from your payment methods in Facebook Ads, then add it again.

This action can help clear any minor glitches or errors in Facebook's payment system.

✅ Step 6: Use a Different VCC or Payment Method
If your VCC continues to cause issues, consider adding a new VCC (one from a trusted provider) or switching to a traditional credit/debit card.

Facebook Ads may have flagged your current VCC for security reasons, so switching to another payment method might resolve the issue.

✅ Step 7: Contact Your VCC Provider
Some VCCs have restrictions on international transactions, advertising charges, or online purchases. Contact your VCC provider to ensure there are no blocks or restrictions on your card.

Ask if Facebook Ads transactions are being blocked or if any fraud protection settings are preventing the payment.

✅ Step 8: Wait and Retry
If the error appears during a high-traffic period or right after making changes to your payment methods, try waiting for a few hours or a day before retrying the payment.

Sometimes, Facebook's payment system experiences brief delays or issues.

📞 What to Do If It's Still Not Fixed
Contact Facebook Ads Support
Go to the Facebook Business Help Center.

Select "Payment Issues" as the topic.

Try to use the live chat option if available, or submit a support ticket.

Explain the issue clearly:

"My payment method (VCC) was declined with a 'Payment Not Authorized' error. I've ensured sufficient funds and correct billing info, but the issue persists. Please assist."

🧠 Additional Tips
Gradually scale your ad spend: If you recently increased your budget significantly, Facebook may interpret this as suspicious, especially when using a VCC.

Avoid using disposable VCCs: If you're using a disposable VCC, Facebook may block it because it's commonly associated with fraud or one-time use.

Monitor your ad account's billing section: Go to Facebook Ads Manager > Billing to see if there are any further details or alerts regarding the payment issue.

✅ Key Takeaways:
Double-check your VCC balance and billing details.

Test with a new payment method if necessary.

If all else fails, contact Facebook Ads support for direct assistance.