MerchantGreatStripe Froze Your Funds?
Here's What To Do
When Stripe freezes merchant funds, they typically hold 90-180 days while resolving disputes. Merchants need Section 4.3 compliance documentation, backup processing within 48 hours, and MATCH list removal strategy to restore payment operations and access frozen reserves.
MerchantGuard offers completely FREE payment processor assessment and compliance education for merchants processing under $10,000/month. Get instant GuardScore™ analysis, backup processor matching, and crisis prevention tools through our interactive Telegram bot—no signup or credit card required.
Timeline: 45-180 days hold
Here's your immediate action plan.
Don't Lose 180 Days of Revenue—Get Backup Now →Immediate Steps (Next 24 Hours)
Check hold reason
Email from Stripe should explain why (chargeback rate, high-risk industry, rapid growth, etc.)
Calculate frozen amount
Dashboard → Reports. Know exactly how much is held.
Apply to backup NOW
2-3 day approval. Don't wait 180 days with zero revenue.
Gather evidence
If disputing hold: transaction logs, customer communication, fraud prevention measures.
Why Stripe Freezes Accounts
Chargeback rate >0.75%
Most common - 60% of freezes
Visa's VAMP threshold is 0.75% monthly. Stripe acts before you hit it.
High-risk industry
CBD, supplements, gaming, adult
These categories have stricter monitoring and lower tolerance.
Rapid growth
Volume spike >150% MoM
Velocity checks trigger holds to prevent fraud.
Descriptor complaints
"Unrecognized charge" disputes
If 30%+ of chargebacks mention descriptor confusion, Stripe freezes.
High-ticket fraud patterns
Orders >$500 without 3DS
Fraud prevention not enabled for large transactions = red flag.
Looking for Stripe Alternatives?
See our complete guide comparing 7 Stripe alternatives with approval odds, pricing, and timelines for each processor.
Compare 7 Stripe Alternatives →Processors That Accept Stripe Refugees
Get matched in 60 seconds based on your business profile
PaymentCloud
Best for: High-risk verticals, supplements, CBD
Durango
Best for: E-commerce, dropshipping, fast approval
Braintree
Best for: SaaS, B2B, established businesses
Timeline Expectations
Stripe hold duration:
Backup processor approval:
Don't wait 180 days. Get backup NOW.
Don't Let This Happen Again
Most merchants don't know they're at risk until Stripe freezes their account.
Check your risk now - FREE if you process under $10K/month:
*No card required. Free forever for merchants under $10K/month.
The same risk intelligence big companies pay $5K/month for.