Resolving "Ineligible" Status for Azure $5000 Start-Up Subscription Activation
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Precious Ayeni
0
Reputation points
An Azure $5000 start-up subscription has been obtained, but attempts to activate it with various cards result in an "ineligible" message. Has anyone encountered similar issues, and what solutions have been effective in resolving this? The problem has persisted for some time, causing significant frustration, as all cards used have failed to activate the subscription despite charging $1, which has not always been refunded.
Azure | Azure Startups
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Thanmayi Godithi 555 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator2025-08-22T23:54:26.9+00:00 Hi @Precious Ayeni,
Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A forum.
I understand that you're encountering an "ineligible" status when attempting to activate your Azure $5,000 Start-Up subscription, despite successful $1 authorization charge. This issue can arise due to various factors, including account eligibility mismatches, payment method restrictions, or incomplete verification steps.
Recommended Troubleshooting Steps
- Verify Account Eligibility
- Ensure you're signed in with the same Microsoft Account (MSA) used to register with the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.
- Only the account owner can activate the Azure Sponsorship. If someone else initiated the application, you may need to request an entitlement transfer.
- For more details on eligibility requirements, refer to the Microsoft for Startups application process.
- Check Activation Path
- Navigate to the Founders Hub Home Page and click “Activate Azure” under the benefits section.
- If the button is missing, your account may already be activated, or there may be a synchronization issue.
- Confirm Sponsorship Subscription
- Go to the Azure Portal → Subscriptions.
- Ensure your subscription type is listed as Azure Sponsorship. If it shows as Pay-As-You-Go, the credits won’t apply.
- For more information on Azure sponsorship, visit the Azure Sponsorship Overview.
- Payment Method Requirements
- Azure does not support prepaid or virtual cards for verification.
Ensure the card:
- Is a valid credit/debit card (non-prepaid).
- Matches the billing address and name on your Azure account.
- Is not already associated with another Azure account.
- For troubleshooting declined cards, refer to Troubleshoot a declined card.
- Clear Browser Cache or Try Another Browser
- Some users have resolved form validation issues by switching browsers or clearing cache.
- Contact Microsoft Support
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, please create a support ticket by following below steps:
- Visit Microsoft for Startups Portal
- Attach relevant documents or screenshot of errors as needed.
If you find this information helpful, please consider upvoting to assist other community members facing similar issues.
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