When Stripe returns decline code authentication_required, it means: card requires 3d secure authentication. This is classified as a authentication in the Sca subcategory. This type of decline usually requires direct customer action to resolve.
LostChurn detects SCA/3DS requirements and sends the customer a secure authentication link. Our flow handles the 3DS challenge seamlessly in a mobile-optimized experience, recovering 60-80% of authentication failures.
Send the customer a 3DS/SCA authentication link immediately. Retry after successful authentication. If not completed within 72 hours, send a reminder. Maximum 0 authentication attempts before escalating to manual outreach.
The code authentication_required is also returned by 3 other payment processors:
LostChurn detects authentication_required declines in real time and applies the optimal recovery strategy — no manual intervention needed.
