Mastercard4808Authorization

Authorization-related Chargeback

The merchant did not get a valid authorization for the transaction, completed it after a decline, or presented it after the authorization had expired. Mastercard groups all authorization problems under this one code.

Why it happens

  • The payment was processed without an authorization or after a decline.
  • The transaction was settled after the authorization had expired.
  • The settled amount was higher than the authorized amount.

What to send to fight it

  1. The authorization record with its approval code, date and amount.
  2. Proof the transaction was presented while the authorization was still valid.
  3. Proof a refund or reversal was already processed.

How to prevent it

  • Authorize every transaction and never force a declined one through.
  • Capture authorized payments quickly, and authorize again when an approval may have expired.

Summaries written by NoChurn from the networks’ public rules and processor documentation. Networks update their rules and deadlines depend on your processor: check its documentation before you respond.

Other Mastercard codes

← All reason codes
Sources (1)
  1. Mastercard Chargeback Guide, Merchant Edition (19 May 2026) · checked 2026-11-09
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