A PIN (personal identification number) is a code that can be entered into a point-of-sale machine or ATM to verify your identity and authorize transactions.
You may associate the idea of a PIN with your debit card, but there are times when you may be asked for a PIN when using your credit card. This can add a layer of security to help prevent fraud in cases of a lost or stolen card. Understanding when you may need a credit card PIN and how to get one can help you protect yourself and avoid issues like declined payments.
Let’s explore credit card PINs, when you might need one 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 PIN. Entering the wrong PIN will end the transaction — though you may be given more than 1 attempt. You can set or change the credit card PIN by contacting your credit card issuer.
Do you need a credit card PIN?
In most situations, you won’t need a credit card PIN to make purchases. However, there are a couple of times when you might need a credit card PIN: when you want to obtain a cash advance or when 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
If you plan to use your credit card while you’re overseas, you may need your PIN. Some overseas credit card transactions may require chip-and-PIN technology, in which case 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.
Do all credit card issuers offer cards with PINs?
In most cases, credit cards rely on the chip-and-signature method to complete transactions, rather than the chip-and-PIN method. So your credit card may not have a PIN automatically assigned to your account. That said, you may be able to request a PIN. However, it may take a few business days to have a PIN assigned to your credit card, once you request it.
The best way to find out if you can add a PIN to your card is to contact your issuer.
How do you get a credit card PIN?
First, check if you already received a credit card PIN in the mail. Credit issuers may pre-assign you a PIN that you can then change by phone or via 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 should have clear instructions on how to activate or change your PIN.
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.
Credit card PINs aren’t something you’ll need in most situations, but they can prove useful when you’re traveling abroad or withdrawing cash at an ATM. They can also provide an added layer of security. If you see yourself using a PIN in the future, it may be worth reaching out to your credit card issuer ahead of time to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
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.
