Contactless Cards Frequently Asked Questions

What is a contactless card, and what are the benefits?
A contactless card payment utilizes a radio frequency technology, allowing cardholders to “wave” their contactless card over a contactless-enabled payment terminal. The embedded antenna transmits the payment info to the contactless-enabled terminal using a one-time use code with each transaction. These new features allow for a secure, fast and easy transaction process.

How secure are contactless cards?
Every contactless card payment transaction utilizes one-time-use dynamic data for the transaction. Stolen or intercepted transaction data cannot be used for other transactions. In addition, each contactless device must have its own secret key that is used to uniquely identify each transaction. No two devices share the same key, and the key is never transmitted.

How do I make a contactless card transaction?
Verify that there is a contactless symbol (see below) on the transaction terminal. Tap or hold your card within three inches or so to the transaction terminal.

Are contactless transactions fast?
Yes, the average contactless transaction takes around two seconds, whereas the average contact transaction takes roughly 30 seconds.

How do I use my card if a store’s terminal does not have the contactless symbol/feature?
Your contactless card also includes an embedded microchip and magnetic stripe, so if you find a store has not updated its transaction terminal, you can use your contactless card in the same way that you have used a standard card.

Is contactless available for debit and credit?
Yes, both debit and credit can be contactless.

When assigned a new contactless card, do I get a new card number or keep the same card number?
You will keep the same number, but the expiration date and CVV will change. Please be sure to update all automatic or recurring payments.

How can I tell if a card is contactless or not?
Contactless cards display the “wave” symbol (see below).

How can I use contactless payments?
Contactless payments provide consistency in the payment experience with multiple seamless ways to pay – whether you’re using a card, mobile device, wearable or other payment object.

Are all merchants accepting contactless chip card transactions today?
Many merchants around the world accept contactless payments. 

When making a purchase, how do I know if I can use contactless?
A contactless-enabled point-of-sale terminal will display the “wave” symbol (see below), which matches the symbol on your card.

Is there a transaction amount limit on a contactless transaction?
Contactless transactions made in the US do not have an amount limit. For transactions over $100, merchants have the option to require a pin or signature. Internationally, contactless transactions do have limits. Depending on region, it is either $50 or $100. If a contactless transaction is not allowed because of the limit, cardholders can dip or swipe the card.

Does contactless work abroad?
Yes, traveling cardholders can use their contactless card when traveling abroad to countries where contactless payments are commonplace. Please note, international contactless transactions do have limits. Depending on region, it is either $50 or $100. If a contactless transaction is not allowed because of the limit, cardholders can dip or swipe the card.

What does the contactless symbol look like?