Reason code

American Express reason code F10 applies when a cardholder disputes a charge made from a manual or offline transaction and claims it’s unauthorized due to the absence of a physical card imprint. This code is specific to situations where a card was present, but the merchant failed to capture a manual imprint as required.

Although physical imprints are rarely used in modern transactions, this code still applies in environments where electronic terminals are unavailable, such as during a system outage or at remote locations. Without an imprint or other proof of card presence, the merchant may be held liable.

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If the card was present and the transaction was valid, submit alternative evidence of cardholder authorization:

• Provide a signed sales receipt or delivery confirmation with cardholder details
  
  
• Show proof that the transaction was authorized via fallback or offline method
  

Always capture clear proof of authorization when processing offline transactions:

• Use an imprinting machine or obtain a manual signature when electronic systems are down
  
  
• Record the card number, expiration date, and authorization code clearly on the receipt