Category-Locked Cards are a unique type of virtual card that, unlike Merchant-Locked Cards and Single-Use Cards, are tied to a specific merchant category rather than one merchant. This means you can use a Category Card at multiple merchants that fall under the same predefined category. Category Cards are available to Plus ($5/month), Pro ($10/month), and Premium ($25/month) users.
How does a Category Card work?
Category Cards are designed to be locked to predefined merchant categories, each encompassing a variety of merchant types. For example, the “Health & Wellness” category includes pharmacies, physicians, dentists, spas, barber/beauty shops, and similar establishments.
When you create a Category Card, you choose from our list of predefined categories. Once selected, the card will be pre-locked to that category.
When you use your Category Card, our system checks whether the merchant falls within the selected category. If the merchant matches and the transaction falls within the additional card rules, the transaction will be approved. If the transaction exceeds your card's limits or does not fall within the selected category, it will be declined.
Why was my Category Card declined?
If you see a decline message that says "Merchant not included in card category", it indicates that the merchant has not been approved for the chosen category.
To bypass this restriction, click “Allow on Next Transaction” located on the transaction page or in the decline email we sent you. The next time you try to make a purchase with this merchant, the transaction will not be declined for category restrictions and will be treated as part of the selected category.
How can I suggest a merchant for a specific category?
If you encounter an issue or have a suggestion for a merchant or category, please reach out to us at support@privacy.com or use the submission form linked below this article.
Can I switch categories on my Category Card?
Currently, once a Category Card is created, its category cannot be changed. If you need a card for a different category, you will need to create a new Category Card.
PLEASE NOTE: Adjusting your subscription from Privacy Plus, Privacy Pro, or Privacy Premium to Privacy Personal will automatically pause any active Category-Locked Card(s). Future transactions attempted on your Category-Locked Card(s) will be declined and no new Category-Locked Card(s) can be created. To continue usage of your Category-Locked Card(s) at any time, resume your Privacy Plus, Privacy Pro, or Privacy Premium subscription.