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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

Tip

In Argentina, always look for the Mercado Pago logo on the QR code sticker before scanning. Keep your camera lens clean, especially if you use a phone case that collects dust. Make sure your balance covers the payment before you scan.

FAQ

Why does Peanut not work with MODO QR codes?+

Peanut integrates with the Mercado Pago payment network specifically. MODO and Cuenta DNI are separate payment systems in Argentina with different technical protocols. They are not interchangeable. If a merchant only has MODO or Cuenta DNI QR codes, ask if they also accept Mercado Pago — most merchants in Argentina do, as Mercado Pago covers over 1,000,000 locations including supermarkets, restaurants, kiosks, pharmacies, and street vendors.

What should I do if the merchant says the payment did not arrive?+

Mercado Pago and Pix payments confirm instantly. The merchant sees a normal payment in their account — they do not know Peanut is involved. Check your app for the payment confirmation, which shows the merchant name, amount, and timestamp. If the app shows the payment as confirmed, ask the merchant to refresh their Mercado Pago or Pix account. If the issue persists, contact support with the payment confirmation details.

Does the exchange rate change between scanning and confirming?+

No. The rate locks at the moment the payment details appear on your review screen. The amount you see before confirming is exactly what you will be charged.

Where can I use Pix QR payments?+

Pix works virtually everywhere in Brazil — restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, online stores, ride-hailing services, hotels, street vendors, and markets. Pix is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. Payments confirm in seconds.

Do I need a CPF or DNI to make QR payments?+

No. You verify your identity with a passport or national ID card from any country. No local identification document is required. See the verification guide for details.

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