Foundation · Finance

Card & payment problems

Your goal: explain that a payment didn't work, report a lost card, or ask for help with banking apps. Get your finances back on track.

1

Survival Phrases

At the shop/restaurant

  • My card is declined.
  • I think there's a problem with the machine.
  • Do you take contactless?

Banking emergencies

  • I lost my bank card.
  • I need to block my card.
  • I can't log in to my app.
2

Model Dialogue

Customer: I'm sorry, my card was declined.

Shopkeeper: That's strange. Try it one more time, please.

Customer: Still declined. I'll pay with cash then. Sorry for the trouble.

Shopkeeper: No problem at all.

3

Register: formal vs informal

SituationPolite (Staff/Bank)Casual (Friend/Family)
ProblemI am having trouble with...My card doesn't work.
RequestCould you assist me with...?Can you help me?
4

Typical Mistakes

  • My card is broken. → My card is not working / was declined.
5

Culture Note

  • Contactless: In many countries, you can just "tap" your card on the machine for small payments. If it's a big payment, you must enter your PIN.
6

Practical Task

  1. Practice. Imagine your card was declined at a shop. What do you say?
  • ☐state the problem?
  • ☐offer an alternative or ask for help?