Card Reader Not Working or Payments Declining

Card reader problems usually come down to power, connection, or timing.

Quick fixes

• Reboot the card reader. Most readers have a power button on the side or top — hold it down to restart.
• Check the connection. External readers often connect to a USB port on the printer or stand. Reseat the cable or try the port next to it.
• Frozen after a transaction? Removing the card too quickly can freeze the reader. Reboot it and run the transaction again.
• WiFi readers: confirm the reader is still on the store network; reboot it if it dropped off.

Declines vs. reader problems

• If the reader works but cards decline, note the exact error on screen. A single declined card is usually the cardholder's bank; many declines in a row suggests a processing or batch issue — contact us right away.

Internet down?

Ask us about enabling offline payments (Dashboard > Settings > Payments), then reboot the card readers. Offline payments capture when the connection returns.

When you contact support

Include: which station (POS1, bar, mobile), what the reader's screen says, and a photo if possible. We can check payment logs and reader status remotely.