QR Code Not Working on Peanut?
The most common cause is scanning the wrong QR type — in Argentina, Peanut works with Mercado Pago QR codes only, and in Brazil it works with Pix. QR payments should be instant: scan, confirm, done. If the scan is not working or the payment fails, most issues can be fixed in under a minute. This guide covers them all.
Wrong QR Code Type
This is the most common issue in Argentina. Merchants often display multiple QR codes at the register.
Peanut supports:
- Mercado Pago QR codes (Argentina) — both static printed stickers and dynamic on-screen codes
- Pix QR codes (Brazil)
Peanut does NOT support:
- MODO QR codes (Argentina)
- Cuenta DNI QR codes (Argentina)
- Any other payment network's QR codes
Mercado Pago is the dominant QR payment standard in Argentina with over 1,000,000 merchants, but MODO and Cuenta DNI use different, incompatible formats. If you see an error after scanning, ask the merchant if they have a Mercado Pago QR specifically.
In Brazil, Pix QR codes are standard. Pix works 24/7/365 and payments confirm in seconds.
Fix QR Payment Issues
- 1
Check the QR code type
In Argentina, look for the Mercado Pago logo on the QR sticker. MODO and Cuenta DNI QR codes are not compatible with Peanut. In Brazil, scan Pix QR codes only.
- 2
Fix camera scanning issues
Clean your camera lens — smudges are the most common scanning failure. Check that camera permissions are enabled for your browser in device settings. Ensure the QR code is well-lit and fully within the camera frame. Hold steady and try a different angle if there is glare.
- 3
Verify your account
QR payments require identity verification. Open the app and check your verification status in account settings. If pending, wait — most users are verified in under 2 minutes. If verification failed, the app will explain why and let you retry.
- 4
Check your balance
QR payments are deducted from your balance. If your balance is lower than the payment amount, the payment will fail. Check your balance in the app and add funds via bank transfer or external wallet if needed.
- 5
Handle pending or failed payments
If a payment shows as pending, wait — do not retry, as this could result in a double charge. Mercado Pago and Pix payments are normally instant but brief delays can occur. If a payment failed, check the error message. Common causes include insufficient balance, expired QR code, or a temporary service issue. Failed payments are automatically refunded.
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