Chip and PIN Technology

About Chip

• What is a chip?

  A chip credit card contains a microchip which is security-enabled. This chip is embedded within the credit card and stores account information. When used with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) the chip is used to identify the rightful cardholder. Visit our chip site for more information.

• When will I receive my chip card?

  We'll let you know in advance when you'll receive your new chip card. Be sure to look for information about your new chip card in your monthly statement.

• How do I activate my card?

  It's easy! Call our automated activation system at 1-888-655-5646. Just be sure to have both your new chip credit card and PIN before you call. See our demo for more information on how to activate your card. 

About Your PIN

• What's a PIN?

  PIN is an acronym for Personal Identification Number. A PIN is a 4-digit code that is unique to you and your card. Your PIN replaces your signature as the method of authorizing your credit card purchases. Your PIN, along with the chip embedded in your card, is a more secure credit card technology which will help to reduce fraud if your credit card is ever lost or stolen.

• When will I receive my PIN?

  You should expect to receive your PIN a couple of days after your new card arrives. As a security measure, the PIN is mailed separately from your new card.

• Can I select any 4-digit PIN?

  There are a few numbers that can't be used as a PIN:

  • You can't use the same digit 4 times (e.g. 1111)
  • You can't use 4 consecutive numbers (e.g. 1234)
  • Any PIN beginning with 0 may not work internationally so we recommend not using a PIN that begins with 0

• How can I get a copy of my PIN?

  You'll be mailed a copy of your PIN, which should arrive a couple days after your new card. If you've misplaced it or it doesn't arrive, you can receive another copy of your PIN by calling 1-800-481-3239. In the menu options, select or say:

  • More Options, then,
  • PIN Options, then,
  • Mail me my PIN.

  We'll then mail a copy of your PIN to the address attached to your credit card account. As a security measure, our customer service agents cannot view or alter your PIN. The only way to receive a PIN is through the mail. 

• I've locked my card – what do I do?

  After three unsuccessful attempts for a chip transaction, your card will be locked and can't be used. This can happen if you type in an incorrect PIN three times. Just call 1-800-481-3239 and select or say:

  • More Options, then,
  • PIN Options, then,
  • Unlock PIN.

• I've already selected a PIN but now I want to change it. How do I do this?

  If you want to change your PIN, call 1-800-481-3239 – we're available 24/7. Just follow the prompts and your PIN will be changed. Please note that on your next chip transaction after changing your PIN, you'll have to use your old PIN one final time. After that, your new PIN is ready to use. See our demo for more information on how to change your PIN.

Using a Chip Card

• How do I shop using a chip card?

  It's easy! Just enter your card into the chip terminal and follow any prompts including entering your PIN. Be sure to leave your card in the terminal until it tells you it's okay to remove it. Once you get that message be sure to remove your card and take your receipt. See our demo for more information on how to use your chip card.

• Do I need to use my PIN for every purchase I make?

  No, there are some shopping situations where you won't need to use your PIN:

  • If a store doesn't have a chip terminal, you'll still be able to use the mag stripe on the back of your card and sign for your purchase
  • When using PayPass, you won't need to enter a PIN – but if the dollar amount is above $50, you may be asked to sign
  • When travelling to a country that doesn't currently offer chip (like the U.S.), you'll need to use the mag stripe and sign for your purchase
  • When shopping online or over the phone, you should never be asked for your PIN. We recommend that you sign up for MasterCard SecureCode, which helps make online shopping even safer

• How do I make a cash advance from an ABM?

  The PIN you use for purchases will work for cash withdrawals as well. Just insert your chip card into an ABM and use your PIN to authorize the cash withdrawal.