FrozenFunds

Guide · Stripe · checked 24 Oct 2026

Stripe’s 120 days.

If Stripe paused your payouts, the number in its own policy is 120 days. Here is what that number does and does not mean, and how to use it.

What the policy says

Stripe’s Unacceptable Risk Policy (last updated 29 July 2026) says Stripe will typically restrict or pause payouts for 120 days from the date you receive the initial email notifying you. At the end of that period Stripe completes a formal review, and may release the funds, continue to hold them, or cancel the account.

Count it properly

  • Day 0 is the date of the first notice email. Write it down and keep the email.
  • Day 120 is when the formal review falls due. The calculator gives you the date and a calendar file.
  • If Stripe gives you a different release date in writing, that date is the one to hold it to.

Before day 120: send the evidence

Reviews turn on risk: refund rates, dispute rates and proof that customers received what they paid for. Build a one-page evidence pack from your payments export and send it with the evidence reply. Keep it factual and short.

After day 120: ask for release, in writing

If the review has passed and money is still held, ask for the balance, less any chargebacks already received, and for an explanation of anything kept back, by transaction. In the UK, use the word “complaint”: it starts the 8-week period before you can go to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Sources: Stripe Unacceptable Risk Policy; FOS: how to complain.

Questions, answered

When does the 120 days start?

Stripe’s policy counts it from the date you receive the first email telling you payouts are restricted or paused. Keep that email: it is your day 0.

Is 120 days a guarantee?

No. The policy says Stripe will “typically” pause payouts for 120 days and then complete a formal review. At the review it may release funds, keep holding them, or close the account. Your own agreement and any written date Stripe gives you also matter.

Can Stripe keep money for chargebacks after 120 days?

It can say so, but it should be able to explain why. In UK decisions the Financial Ombudsman Service asked whether an ongoing risk justified a longer hold, and where it did not, told Stripe to pay interest on the late part.

Should I open another account to keep selling?

Not to get around a decision. FrozenFunds will not help with evading underwriting. If you need to keep trading, apply openly to another provider and disclose your history when asked.