Hold vs. Lock vs. “Card Status: H” — Decode Every Target Gift Card Error Code

When you phone the IVR or peek at a declined slip, you’ll sometimes see cryptic status letters: **H, L, V, S.** This glossary breaks down each 2025 code, what triggers it, and how to clear it.

How to Clear a Status H on Your Own

1. Wait 24 hours without swiping.
2. Assign ZIP on MyBalanceNow.
3. Retry a small $1 charge (iTunes) before larger spends.

Data sourced from 2025 BIN bulletin.