The Verify a Payment Method endpoint allows you to verify the validity of a payment method by performing an authorization and immediate void. This confirms that the card is valid and has sufficient funds without capturing any funds.
This operation is advanced and not recommended for most users. It is primarily used in scenarios where you need to confirm a card's validity without initiating a charge.
Usage Scenarios
Account Setup: Verifying a customer's card when they add it to their account.
Fraud Prevention: Checking card validity before processing large transactions.
Subscription Trials: Ensuring the card is valid before starting a trial period.
Response Structure
| Code | Response | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | Success | Returns a transaction object indicating that the verification was successful, including transaction ID, type, status, amount, currency, payment method ID, creation timestamp, and any metadata provided. |
| 400 | Bad Request | Verification failed due to invalid card details or insufficient funds. |
| 422 | Unprocessable Entity | Validation errors occurred. |
Detailed Parameter Descriptions
payment_method_id: Must correspond to an existing payment method.
total: Usually a minimal amount (e.g., $0.00 or $1.00), depending on card network policies.
meta: Use to include additional information relevant to the verification.
Usage Notes
Alternative Methods
For most cases, it's sufficient to perform a minimal charge or pre-authorization to verify a card.
Fees
Verification transactions may incur network fees.
Idempotency
Use idempotency_id to prevent duplicate verifications.
Additional Considerations
Customer Experience
Be aware that some banks may place a temporary hold on funds, which could confuse customers.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure compliance with any regulations related to card verification in your jurisdiction.
Not for ACH
Verification is applicable only to credit cards, not ACH transactions.