Stripe Balance Unavailable Meaning

Stripe balance unavailable means your funds cannot be paid out or used yet. Learn why Stripe shows this message and how to fix it.

STRIPE

Chris Walker

12/24/20251 min read

What Does Stripe Balance Unavailable Mean?

Stripe balance unavailable means that the money in your Stripe account cannot currently be used for payouts or transfers. The funds exist, but they are temporarily restricted or not yet cleared for use.

This message is shown by Stripe when funds are not ready for withdrawal.

Common Reasons for Stripe Balance Unavailable

This status usually appears for one or more of the following reasons:

  • Payments are still pending or processing

  • Payout schedule date has not arrived

  • New account holding period is active

  • Payouts are paused or on hold

  • Verification or compliance review is in progress

  • Recent refunds or chargebacks affected the balance

What Happens When Stripe Balance Is Unavailable?

When your balance is unavailable:

  • Funds cannot be paid out to your bank

  • Customer payments still work normally

  • The balance usually becomes available automatically

  • Money is not lost or removed

Once funds clear or restrictions are lifted, the balance updates.

How Long Does Stripe Balance Stay Unavailable?

The timeframe depends on the cause:

  • Card payments: 2–7 days to clear

  • New accounts: Up to 14 days

  • Reviews or holds: A few days to a couple of weeks

Stripe typically shows an estimated availability date in your dashboard.

How to Fix Stripe Balance Unavailable Issue

You can try the following:

  1. Wait for pending payments to clear

  2. Complete any required identity or business verification

  3. Check if payouts are paused or on hold

  4. Review refund and dispute activity

  5. Contact Stripe support if no reason is shown

Most cases resolve automatically without action.

Is Stripe Balance Unavailable a Problem?

No. This is normal behavior, especially for new or growing accounts. It does not mean your account is suspended or permanently restricted.

Does Unavailable Balance Affect Customers?

No. Customers can continue making payments as usual. Only your ability to withdraw funds is affected temporarily.

Stripe balance unavailable means your funds are temporarily not ready for payout. Once payments clear or required checks are completed, the balance usually becomes available without issues.

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