How to Notify and Email Customers when their Payment Method Fails or Card Declines

Stripe can automatically email customers when their card declines or a payment fails. Turning this on helps reduce unpaid invoices and speeds up payment collection.

1. Go to Stripe email settings

• Log into Stripe

• Click Settings

• Select Subscriptions and Emails

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2. Enable failed payment emails

• Turn on Send emails when a card payment fails

• Enable failed payment notifications for ACH or bank transfers if applicable

• Click Save

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3. Preview the email notification

• Click Preview to view the message customers will receive

• The email will show:

  • The total invoice amount

  • The failed payment notice

  • The last four digits of the card

  • A link to update their payment method

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4. Confirm reply email address

• Customer replies will go to your Support Email

• Verify your company email is correct in Business Details

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5. Understand when emails are sent

Customers automatically receive an email when:

• Card is declined

• Card has expired

• Insufficient funds

• ACH or bank transfer fails

The notification is sent immediately after the failed attempt.

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6. Retry Failed Payments

• Be sure to check your Stripe Settings for Retrying Payments when they do fail