--- title: Direct mode slug: concepts/cards/issuing-models/integrated-issuing/advanced-authorization/direct-mode description: Direct Mode lets partners approve or decline transactions in real time. Cross River oversees compliance and returns the partner’s decision if received within the required time window. docTags: createdAt: 2025-08-28T10:33:20.428Z --- ## Intro to Direct mode Direct Mode gives partners the ability to approve or decline transactions using their own systems and logic while Cross River oversees compliance to ensure transactions follow the right standards and guidelines. During authorization, Cross River calls the partner in real time to receive the partner’s decision. If a valid response is received within the required time window, that decision is returned to the card network. ## Key characteristics - Partner creates an API endpoint based on Cross River's specifications (received from their relationship manager) to be able to receive requests for authorization in real time. Cross River's advanced authorization certification testing must be completed before going live. - For messages where a response from the partner is required, such as requests for authorization, Cross River will give the partner a specific time window to respond. - If the partner responds in time, Cross River will post the transaction into the customer's account in Cross River, updating the balance. - If a response is not received, Cross River will decline the request for authorization from the network. - At the end of each day, Cross River provides the partner with a daily reconciliation file to review the activity of the day. The partner must review and update their records. - The partner must conduct an end-of-day balance sync to ensure the account balances recorded in Cross River match the partner's ledger. ## Sample use cases - Gaming platforms that want to provide an embedded finance experience. - Fintechs that maintain ledgers for wallet programs. - Programs requiring high authorization flexibility and ownership.