Alipay or WeChat Pay payment failed? What to check
Quick answer
Most failures come from the bank blocking overseas payments, a name that doesn't match your passport, or a personal QR code. If a payment shows "pending" or you were charged but it says failed, don't pay again. Check your app history and bank app first.
On this page
Problems and fixes
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Personal QR fails, merchant QR works | Very common. Try your other card, verify your passport, use the other app or pay cash. See personal QR codes |
| Payment declined | Check the card allows overseas and online payments and has funds. Your name must match on passport and card. Call your bank |
| Stuck on "pending" | Don't pay again. Check your Alipay or WeChat history and your bank app. Ask the merchant if they received it |
| Charged, but app says failed | Note the amount, time and merchant. Ask the merchant to check. Don't pay twice. Contact your bank or the app's official support |
| Code won't scan | Show the whole code, no glare, allow camera access. Ask for a fresh code |
| Over the limit | Read the limit shown. Use the other app or another card. See fees and limits |
| Account restricted / security check | Screenshot the message, follow the official in-app steps, contact official support. Don't open a new account or use someone else's |
| No bank text code | Make sure your home SIM is in the phone and on. Try on Wi-Fi. Call your bank |
| Refund not showing | Refunds go back to your original card and can take several days |
Avoid repeated attempts
Trying the same payment over and over can trigger more blocks. Retry once, then switch to your backup: another card, the other app or cash.