Fix a payment issue or declined payment

If you're having a trouble with payment, this article helps fix common payment errors and covers what to know about unexpected charges.

Fixing a payment error

If your payment fails or declines during checkout, you’ll get a notification. You can usually update your payment method and try again.  

If payment fails during a show: 

• You and the seller will both get a notification
• Sellers might ask you to fix the payment during the show or choose to rerun the item
• If the payment isn’t fixed by end of show, the seller won’t ship the item and may resell it

Common fixes when there’s a payment issue: 

• Check that you have enough funds available
• Contact your bank or card provider to see if the payment was declined
• Confirm that your card hasn’t expired
• Double-check your card number, expiration date, and security code
• Make sure you’ve selected a billing address during checkout
• Check that your billing address matches the one your bank has on file
• If you’re using a new card, make sure it’s activated

Troubleshooting charges 

Why was I charged $10 by Whatnot? 

A $10 charge is usually a temporary pre-authorization when you request to become a Verified Buyer. It helps confirm that you have funds available and a valid payment method before making a purchase.

The hold typically disappears from your bank statement within a few days.

Why am I seeing a recurring charge from Whatnot?

If you used Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), it’s likely part of your installment plan. 

If not, your bank might be grouping multiple purchases or labeling them as a subscription. Whatnot doesn’t offer subscriptions, so this may just be how your bank is displaying the charges. 

If you’re unsure, wait for the charges to fully process. Still have questions? Contact us with a screenshot of the charge(s) and we’ll help you figure it out.

What if I’m seeing duplicate charges? 

This can happen when payment fails. Wait for pending charges to fully process because some may disappear. If things still don’t look right, contact our support team and we’ll help sort it out.