What Is an Issue Number on a Credit or Debit Card?
Demystify the issue number on your credit or debit card. Understand this unique identifier's purpose and relevance for payment details.
An issue number on a credit or debit card serves as a unique identifier, sometimes appearing on payment cards to differentiate specific versions of a card linked to the same account. It functions as a numerical detail that can be requested during certain transactions, providing an additional layer of information. This number is separate from the primary account number, expiration date, or the security code found on the card.
Defining the Issue Number
An issue number represents a specific version or re-issuance of a financial card. This detail helps identify how many times a card has been replaced or reissued to the cardholder while the underlying account remains the same. Typically, it appears as a single or two-digit number, often starting with “1” for the initial card and incrementing with each subsequent replacement. This numerical identifier is distinct from the primary account number and the security code.
The presence of an issue number varies significantly across different regions and card types. It is more commonly found on debit cards and older credit cards, particularly those issued in the United Kingdom and some European countries. In contrast, cards issued by financial institutions in the United States rarely feature an explicit issue number, as US card issuers often use alternative internal systems for tracking reissued cards.
Locating the Issue Number
Should a credit or debit card include an issue number, it is generally printed on the front of the card. Its typical placement is near other key card details, such as the main card number or the expiration date. The number itself is usually small and might be labeled as “ISSUE NO.” or simply appear as a standalone digit.
It is important to note that not all payment cards feature an issue number. If a card does not have a clearly visible issue number in these typical locations, it indicates that the card does not utilize one.
How the Issue Number is Used
The issue number primarily functions as an additional data point for card verification, particularly in certain online or phone transactions. Some merchant systems or online payment forms, especially those catering to international card schemes like Maestro, Switch, or Solo, may request this number to process a transaction. Providing this detail helps confirm the legitimacy of the card and the cardholder during a purchase.
When an online payment form requires an issue number but the card does not have one, users typically have a few options. Many payment gateways are designed to accommodate cards without this identifier, allowing the field to be left blank. If a numerical entry is mandatory, entering “0” or “00” can sometimes serve as a recognized placeholder, enabling the transaction to proceed.