EMV for Your Debit and Credit Cards

A microchip embedded in every card adds an extra layer of protection against fraud for purchases made at the point of sale. The embedded computer chip provides more security and wider international acceptance.

Information programmed into the chip is personalized for your account and each transaction generates a unique code, adding an extra safeguard against unauthorized use and counterfeiting. These cards are already in wide use around the world and are now becoming the standard in the U.S.

Check out this tutorial to learn more about using your EMV chip card.

Follow these steps to use your card at a chip-enabled terminal:

1. Insert your card, face up and chip end into the chip-enabled terminal.
2. Leave the card in the terminal during the entire transaction.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen and either sign your name or enter your PIN as needed. Be sure to remove your card and take your receipt when the transaction is complete.

If a merchant isn't using a new chip-enabled terminal yet.

You will 'swipe' your card to make your purchase, just as you do today. EMV Chip Cards will continue to have the magnetic stripe on the back.

Using Your EMV Card For Online Or Phone Purchases

Provide your card information as you have done in the past. EMV Chip Cards will not change the way payments are made online or by telephone.

Using Your EMV Card at An ATM

The process is essentially the same as at a merchant. Insert your card, leave it in the ATM, and follow the prompts on the screen. Depending on the type of ATM, you might be prompted to re-insert your card. Leave the card in the ATM until the transaction is complete and the card is released, and then remove your card. A PIN is needed for ATM transactions.

First Alliance Credit Union is proud to offer it's members credit and debit cards with EMV chip technology. Have questions about your EMV chip card? Contact us at 507-288-0330 or hello@firstalliancecu.com