Can my Bank Account get frozen after sending a large payment to Lightning Pay?

It is incredibly rare, but we have had one report of a bank account getting frozen after sending a large payment to Lightning Pay. This situation can be frustrating, but it's often a temporary security measure put in place by your bank. Here's why it can happen, and what steps you can take to resolve it quickly.

Why Did This Happen?

Banks use automated systems to detect potentially suspicious activity as part of their obligations to prevent fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes. A large or unusual payment — especially to a new recipient or a business in the Bitcoin or financial technology space like Lightning Pay — can sometimes trigger those systems.

Common reasons your bank may freeze your account after a large payment include:

  • The payment amount was unusually high compared to your normal spending.

  • The recipient (Lightning Pay) is a Bitcoin-related service, which some banks treat with extra scrutiny.

  • The transaction was flagged by automated anti-fraud systems as requiring further review.

  • You may not have previously interacted with Lightning Pay, making the transaction seem unexpected or unverified.

What Should You Do?

  1. Contact Your Bank Immediately
    Call your bank’s fraud or support team and explain that the transaction was intentional. Let them know:

    • You authorized the payment.

    • Lightning Pay is a registered New Zealand company (Lightning Pay Limited).

    • You are comfortable with the service and intended to use it.

  2. Ask for the Freeze to Be Reviewed or Lifted
    Once you confirm the payment was legitimate, most banks will unfreeze your account quickly.

  3. Provide Any Requested Documentation
    If the bank asks for invoices, emails, or a reason for the payment, provide as much as you can. We're happy to help with this — just reach out to our support team using our support messaging service.

  4. Let Us Know
    If you're unable to complete a payment or need assistance while your account is frozen, contact us at support@lightningpay.nz and we’ll do our best to help.

How Can I Prevent This in the Future?

  • Notify your bank in advance if you plan to make a large payment to Lightning Pay.

  • Add Lightning Pay as a trusted payee in your banking system if possible.

Need Help?

We're here for you. If you need a copy of the payment request, an explanation for your bank, or help resolving a blocked or delayed payment, just email us at support@lightningpay.nz.

Lightning Pay is committed to helping you navigate the traditional banking system as smoothly as possible when using our services.