What Is a Credit Card Issue Number?
Confused by credit card issue numbers? Learn what they are, why they're used, and how to handle requests, particularly for US cardholders.
A credit card issue number is a small, typically one or two-digit number found on some credit cards. It acts as a unique identifier for a specific version of a card, particularly when a cardholder receives multiple cards linked to the same primary account number. Credit card issue numbers are not commonly found on credit cards issued in the United States.
Where to Find the Issue Number
The issue number, when present, is usually a one or two-digit number. It is often located on the front of the credit card, near other details such as the start date, expiry date, or the main card number itself. This type of identifier is primarily a feature of cards issued in certain regions, such as the UK and other parts of Europe.
Why Issue Numbers Are Used
Credit card issuers in certain regions use an issue number to identify a specific version or iteration of a card. This mechanism helps track how many times a card has been reissued or replaced for a particular account. For example, a new card might have an issue number of ‘1’, and a replacement card due to expiry or damage would have an issue number of ‘2’. The issue number functions as a version control system, especially when the underlying primary account number (PAN) remains the same despite a new physical card being issued. This ensures that the correct and most current card is being used for transactions.
When You Are Asked for an Issue Number
If you encounter a field requesting a credit card issue number during an online transaction, your response depends on the origin of your card. For cardholders with a US-issued credit card, it is highly probable that your card does not have an issue number. In such cases, you can typically try leaving the field blank, entering ‘0’, or entering ‘1’. If the transaction does not proceed, contacting the merchant’s customer service or your card issuer for clarification is advisable.
For cardholders whose cards are issued in regions like the UK or Europe, you should locate the one or two-digit issue number, usually found on the front of your card, and enter it as requested. The issue number is distinct from other security features like the Card Verification Value (CVV) or the main 15- or 16-digit card number.