Chip and PIN technology is used with your Citi commercial card as part of a global scheme aimed at preventing fraud. Instead of using your signature to verify your identity, you may now be asked to enter a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) known only to you.
Retailers who have not upgraded to this new technology will continue to request your signature to identify you as the cardholder. Therefore it is important that you sign the back of your card as soon as you receive it.
Important PIN information
- Do not let anyone else know or use your PIN.
- Never provide your PIN when making purchases online or over the phone.
- Never write your PIN down.
- Always be aware of your surroundings when entering your PIN.
- For security reasons, avoid selecting a PIN that could be easily guessed.
Chip and PIN – How to Guide and Frequently Asked Questions
How to activate your card and select a PIN: There will be a sticker across the front of the card. You will need to call the number on the activation sticker and follow the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) instructions for activating the card and setting the PIN.
How to use your card for the first time at a chip-enabled terminal: Insert the card (chip side first) into the terminal and do not remove it until the transaction is complete. Confirm the purchase amount on the terminal and sign the terminal receipt.
How to use your card at subsequent chip-enabled terminals: Subsequent chip transactions will prompt for a PIN. Enter your PIN on the keypad, just as you would at an ABM cash machine. Follow any additional terminal prompts to complete the transaction.
What if I enter an invalid PIN three or more times? If you enter an invalid PIN three or more times, your PIN will be blocked and you will need to select a new PIN by calling the toll-free or collect phone number listed on the back of your card. Once you have completed selecting a PIN, the following transaction with your card will require you to sign for the purchase, exactly like your first chip transaction with the card.
What if I want to change or have forgotten my PIN, but have not blocked my PIN? You can select a new PIN by calling the toll-free or collect phone number listed on the back of your card. Please be aware that during your next transaction at a chip-enabled terminal, you may be required to enter the new PIN three times before the terminal will recognize it and complete the transaction.
Will I be able to use my existing PIN if I receive a replacement card? Yes, if this is a replacement card for a previous Chip card, the PIN from your previous card has been transferred to your new card. You can begin using the PIN immediately.