How do I resolve billing errors with my VCC on Pinterest Ads?

If you're encountering billing errors with your Virtual Credit Card (VCC) on Pinterest Ads, the issue could stem from various factors such as incorrect payment details, insufficient funds, or issues with the VCC provider. Here's how to resolve common billing errors:

1. Verify Billing Information
One of the most common reasons for billing errors is a mismatch between the billing information on your VCC and what Pinterest Ads has on file. If the information doesn't match exactly, Pinterest might not be able to process the payment.

Action Steps:

Double-check the name, billing address, and ZIP code associated with your VCC.

Make sure the address you entered on Pinterest Ads matches the one linked to your VCC.

Ensure the billing address is in the correct format (some systems require specific formats, like including suite numbers or apartment numbers).

2. Check VCC Expiration Date
If your VCC has expired, it will no longer be valid for transactions, leading to a payment failure.

Action Steps:

Check the expiration date of your VCC.

If the card has expired, replace it with a new VCC.

Ensure that your VCC provider has updated the expiration details if you recently renewed or received a new card.

3. Ensure Sufficient Funds
If your VCC balance is too low, Pinterest Ads will not be able to charge the card. This is a common issue with prepaid VCCs.

Action Steps:

Log in to your VCC provider's account and check the balance.

If the balance is too low, add funds to the card.

If you're running recurring campaigns, make sure there's enough balance for future charges as well.

4. Check for Card Restrictions
Some VCCs have spending limits or may not be accepted for online ad services like Pinterest Ads. Ensure that your VCC is valid for this type of transaction.

Action Steps:

Review the terms of your VCC provider to ensure that the card supports online advertising payments.

Check if there are any restrictions on international or recurring transactions.

If the card doesn't support ad payments, contact your VCC provider for clarification or consider using another payment method.

5. Ensure Your Card is Active
If your VCC is inactive or temporarily suspended by your provider (e.g., due to suspicious activity or a payment issue), Pinterest Ads will not be able to process payments.

Action Steps:

Contact your VCC provider to check if the card is active.

If there's a temporary block, ask for the card to be unblocked or reactivated.

If necessary, request a new card.

6. Update Payment Method on Pinterest Ads
If the payment issue persists, you may need to update your payment method on Pinterest Ads.

Action Steps:

Go to Billing Settings in Pinterest Ads.

Remove the old payment method (if applicable).

Add your VCC details again, ensuring that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

7. Clear Cache or Try a Different Browser
Sometimes, cached data or issues with the browser can interfere with updating payment details or processing transactions.

Action Steps:

Clear your browser cache or try incognito mode to make sure you're submitting the most recent payment details.

Alternatively, use a different browser or device to log in to your Pinterest Ads account and make changes.

8. Contact Pinterest Ads Support
If you've tried the above steps and the issue persists, it may be necessary to contact Pinterest Ads Support to investigate the issue further.

Action Steps:

Reach out to Pinterest Ads support through the support page, explaining the billing error and steps you've taken to resolve it.

Provide any error codes or messages you've received during the payment attempt.

Be ready to verify your account details, as Pinterest may require additional verification for security.

9. Contact Your VCC Provider
If the error is related to the VCC provider (e.g., card is blocked or flagged for fraud), it's essential to contact the VCC provider directly for assistance.

Action Steps:

Contact customer service to resolve issues like fraud detection, payment restrictions, or account suspension.

Ask for confirmation that the card is set up for online transactions and can be used for advertising payments.

Common Billing Errors and Solutions
Error   Possible Causes   Solution
Payment Declined   Insufficient funds, expired card, fraud flag   Check funds, update billing details, or contact provider
Billing Information Mismatch   Incorrect name or address entered   Correct name and billing address on Pinterest and VCC provider
Authorization Hold Failed   VCC doesn't support the payment method   Contact VCC provider to confirm or switch to another card
Card Expired   VCC expiration date has passed   Replace with a new, active card
Card Blocked   Fraud protection by VCC provider   Contact VCC provider to unblock or re-enable the card
Transaction Pending   Authorization delay or verification   Wait for the hold to clear or contact support if prolonged
Summary
To resolve billing errors with your VCC on Pinterest Ads:

Check and correct billing information (name, address, ZIP code).

Ensure your VCC is active and has sufficient funds.

Verify card restrictions with your VCC provider to ensure it's suitable for online advertising payments.

If issues persist, update your payment method or contact Pinterest Ads Support or your VCC provider.