How to resolve 'Card not added' issue in Apple Wallet on iPhone 12?

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Level 1

4 points

How to resolve 'Card not added' issue in Apple Wallet on iPhone 12?

Hi there, I have an iPhone 12. My apple wallet refuses to let me add any cards? I've installed the latest update on my phone and logged in and out of my Apple ID account, and restarted my phone but my apple wallet still refuses to let me add any cards to it? It says card not added, please contact card issuer, but I have tried to load 3 different cards from 3 different banks, some I have deleted out and tried to re-add, but it comes up with the same message for each one so it can't be a problem with the cards it must be a problem with my apple wallet. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Problem with Apple Wallet

iPhone 12, iOS 18

Posted on Nov 14, 2025 5:15 AM

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Answer 1

Jeff Donald

Level 8

44,358 points

Nov 14, 2025 5:46 AM in response to JosieJo75

Apple is not a bank. Apple does not verify cards for adding to Apple Wallet. All verification and authentication is done by the banks themselves. Banks may use the Payment Network Operator (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) for some verification services.

When you attempt to add a card to your Apple Wallet, your iPhone sends data about how you use your device, your Apple Account, and other information that helps the banks and PNO’s verify you, your device and your cards. The information is encrypted and Apple does not know the contents of the encrypted data.

The PNO and bank use the information you send for verification purposes and to reduce the potential for fraud from scammers etc. Apple does not participate in these decisions. If the PNO approves the request, it is sent to the bank for final approval and issue of the dynamic token representing your card. Again, Apple does not participate in the decision process and if a token is not issued, you receive a notification stating to contact the bank. Apple is not informed by the PNO or the bank the reason(s) for the decline.

You may also be interested in the information in this thread in the community.

Apple Wallet Disabled - how to resolve ? - Apple Community

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