Cannot add card to Apple Wallet iOS 26.1

Cannot add card to Apple Wallet iOS 26.1: I seemed to have found another iOS 26 bug, confirmed by many users. I tried to add a new credit card to my Apple Wallet after updating to 26.1


  • I go into the wallet
  • Tried to add the wallet via camera, "cannot add card, check with bank" error
  • Tried to add card manually, "cannot add card, check with bank" error
  • I tried to add card via camera, "cannot add card, check with bank" error
  • I read over a dozen error fixes, so I confirmed I have the correct regions, time, content and privacy settings, all are correct
  • As per some fixes I tried turning the above settings off and on or on and off, no luck I get the same error


I know that this is not a card issue because I changed my Apple card payment on my Apple ID with the EXACT SAME INFO, and Apple itself authenticated this card.


iOS 26.x seems to be the most buggy release in years, I say this as a 20-year veteran of large software builds and updates.


Hope some has a fix for this or Apple leads are watching the community boards.

iPhone 13, iOS 26

Posted on Nov 12, 2025 5:34 AM

Reply
2 replies

Nov 12, 2025 10:29 AM in response to javaguy39

data sent for verification is all sent from your iPhone. The data is sent to Apple servers decrypt the data then re-encrypt the data for the Payment Network Operator (Visa, MasterCard or American Express). IF the PNO verifies the card, device etc. they forward the information to the bank. The bank reviews the information and either approves or declines adding the card to Apple Wallet. If declined, the error message is sent to your iPhone. IF approved a token is issued that represents your card and is added to your Wallet app.


Your banks statement doesn’t coincide with the actual verification and approval process.

Cannot add card to Apple Wallet iOS 26.1

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.