What Is the Credit Card Issue Number?
Demystify the credit card issue number. Understand this specific, often regional, card detail: where to find it and when it's used.
Credit cards feature several numbers, such as the primary account number, security codes like the CVV, and expiration dates. A less common identifier found on some cards is the “issue number.” This article explains what an issue number is, where it can be found, and when it might be required.
Defining the Issue Number
An issue number is a one or two-digit number present on certain credit and debit cards, primarily those issued in regions like the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its purpose is to distinguish between multiple cards issued to the same account holder. For instance, if a cardholder receives a replacement card due to loss, theft, or expiration, the new card might carry a different issue number to differentiate it from previous versions associated with the same primary account number (PAN). This system helps the issuing bank track the specific iteration of a card in circulation. It is not a universal feature across all credit cards, especially those issued in the United States.
Locating the Issue Number
If a credit or debit card includes an issue number, it is typically located on the front of the card. This number often appears near other card details such as the “valid from” or expiration date. It might be explicitly labeled as “ISSUE NO.” or a similar abbreviation. Many cards, particularly those issued by banks in the United States, do not feature an issue number, so its absence on a card is common and not indicative of a problem.
When It is Required
The issue number is generally requested during online transactions or specific payment processes, particularly on e-commerce websites based in regions where these numbers are prevalent, such as the UK. If a payment form prompts for an issue number and your card does not have one, the field can usually be left blank. Alternatively, some online forms may provide an option to select “N/A” or “no issue number” to proceed with the transaction. It is not a standard requirement for most transactions in the United States.
Defining the Issue Number
An issue number is a one or two-digit number present on certain credit and debit cards, primarily those issued in regions like the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its purpose is to distinguish between multiple cards issued to the same account holder. For instance, if a cardholder receives a replacement card due to loss, theft, or expiration, the new card might carry a different issue number to differentiate it from previous versions associated with the same primary account number (PAN). This system helps the issuing bank track the specific iteration of a card in circulation. It is not a universal feature across all credit cards, especially those issued in the United States.
Locating the Issue Number
If a credit or debit card includes an issue number, it is typically located on the front of the card. This number often appears near other card details such as the “valid from” or expiration date. It might be explicitly labeled as “ISSUE NO.” or a similar abbreviation. Many cards, particularly those issued by banks in the United States, do not feature an issue number, so its absence on a card is common and not indicative of a problem.
When It is Required
The issue number is generally requested during online transactions or specific payment processes, particularly on e-commerce websites based in regions where these numbers are prevalent, such as the UK. If a payment form prompts for an issue number and your card does not have one, the field can usually be left blank. Alternatively, some online forms may provide an option to select “N/A” or “no issue number” to proceed with the transaction. It is not a standard requirement for most transactions in the United States.