A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a code that must be entered into a point-of-sale machine or ATM to verify the cardholder’s identity and authorize transactions. Its main purpose is to provide an added layer of security to ensure that your credit card cannot be used for unauthorized payments.
Credit card PINs may help reduce misuse of credit cards at the point of sale and prevent fraud in cases of a lost or stolen card.
Let’s take a deeper look into credit card PINs and how they may help you use your credit card for secure transactions.
How do credit card PINs work?
Credit card PINs ensure that only authorized users with the correct PIN can complete certain transactions. For example, when you insert your card into an ATM, the machine will prompt you to enter your 4-digit PIN. Failure to enter the correct pin will end the transaction. You can set or change the credit card PIN by contacting your credit card issuer.
When do you need a credit card PIN?
You might need a credit card PIN in one of two scenarios: you want to obtain a cash advance or you’re using your card abroad.
Cash advances
A cash advance acts like a short-term loan from your credit card issuer and allows you to access cash. If you’re obtaining a cash advance at an ATM, you will need the credit card PIN to complete the transaction and access the money.
Using a credit card abroad
This is becoming less common, but if you plan to use your credit card while you’re overseas, you may need your PIN. Some overseas credit card transactions require chip and PIN technology, so you would not be able to complete a purchase without providing a valid PIN. In some scenarios, you may be able to provide a signature in lieu of a PIN. Tap to pay is also typically an acceptable form of payment.
How do you get a credit card PIN?
First, check if you already received a credit card PIN in the mail. Many credit issuers will pre-assign you a PIN that you can then change by phone or your online account. If you have a PIN but have forgotten it, you will need to reset your PIN. You can do so using one of the following methods.
Online account
Log in to your user account and look under any sections linked to credit card use. If your issuer allows you to change the PIN online, their website will have clear instructions on how to activate or change your PIN. Keep in mind, though, that not all issuers allow you to change your PIN online, and you may have to try to do so via phone.
By phone
To reset or set a PIN over the phone, you can typically contact your issuer’s customer service and let them know that you’d like to change your PIN. From there, your issuer should be able to walk you through the necessary steps.
Do all credit card issuers offer cards with PINs?
Some banks offer the option of a PIN, but this is not a default for all cards or issuers. In other cases, PINs may be available to those who request them. The best way to find out if you can add a PIN to your card is to contact your issuer.
Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.
