The important thing is to not embarrass the customer. Try running the card a second time. If it is still declined, ask the customers very sweetly if there is another card you could try. Hopefully, they will take the hint and have another card.

If they choose to make an issue and loudly start defending themselves, you will have to be more direct. Once again, state the fact: "I am sorry. There seems to be some problem with this card. Would you like to try another card, give me cash or pay by check?" If they really throw a fit, tell them you would be happy to take them to a private phone and let them call their bank.

Remember, saving the relationship is worth more than making the sale. With all the new banking regulations and fraud protections, it is not always an issue of not having funds in an account-sometimes it is the bank's fault.

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