Where to find your credit card PIN

Your credit card PIN is a four-digit code you use at ATMs and some in-person payment terminals. If you set up a PIN when you opened your card, the issuer does not store it where you can retrieve it — they store only an encrypted version. This means you cannot straightforward call and ask them to tell you what it is.

If you remember setting a PIN but cannot recall the number itself, you will need to reset it. If you never set one up, you can create one now. Both routes go through your card issuer's website, mobile app, or customer service line.

Key Takeaways

  • Your card issuer cannot tell you your PIN over the phone because they do not store the actual number, only an encrypted version.
  • You can reset your PIN through your card's mobile app, the issuer's website, or by calling customer service.
  • Most issuers let you set or change your PIN when ready through their app or website without waiting on hold.
  • If you have not set a PIN yet, you can create one the same way — through the app or online account portal.
  • You will need your card number, date of birth, and sometimes a one-time code sent to your phone or email to reset your PIN.

Reset your PIN through the mobile app

The fastest way to reset your PIN is through your card issuer's mobile app. Open the app, sign in with your username and password, and look for a menu option labeled "PIN," "Security," "Card Settings," or "Manage Card." The exact wording varies by issuer — Chase calls it "Card Controls," while American Express uses "Manage Card."

Tap the option to set or change your PIN. The app will ask you to confirm your identity, usually by sending a one-time code to your phone or email. Enter that code, then create your new four-digit PIN. Most issuers let you use any four digits, though some block obvious sequences like 0000 or 1111. The change takes effect when ready.

If you cannot find the PIN option in your app, check the app's help section or search for "PIN" within the app itself. Many issuers hide this feature one or two taps deeper than the main menu.

Reset your PIN on the issuer's website

Log into your account on your card issuer's website. Navigate to "Card Settings," "Security Settings," or "Manage My Card" — the location depends on which bank or credit card company issued your card. Look for an option to set or change your PIN.

You will be asked to verify your identity before proceeding. This usually means entering a one-time code sent to your phone or email, or answering security questions you set up when you opened the account. Once verified, you can create or change your PIN right there. The new PIN is active as soon as you confirm it.

If you cannot locate the PIN option on the website, use the site's search function or contact customer service. Some issuers bury this feature under "Card Controls" or "Security" rather than a dedicated settings page.

Reset your PIN by phone

Call the customer service number on the back of your credit card. Tell the representative you want to set or change your PIN. They will verify your identity by asking for your card number, date of birth, and possibly the last four digits of your Social Security number or answers to security questions.

Once verified, the representative can walk you through setting a new PIN over the phone. Some issuers will let you choose your PIN right then; others will send you a temporary PIN and ask you to change it through the app or website within a certain timeframe. Ask which process applies to your card before you hang up.

Calling takes longer than using the app or website, but it is the right choice if you cannot access your online account or if you are having trouble with the digital reset process.

What to do if you are locked out of your account

If you cannot log into your card issuer's website or app, you cannot reset your PIN online. Call the customer service number on the back of your card and explain that you need to reset your PIN but cannot access your account. The representative will verify your identity and either reset your PIN over the phone or send you a link to reset it via email.

Have your card and a form of ID ready when you call. The verification process usually takes five to ten minutes. Once your identity is confirmed, the PIN reset happens quickly.

PIN versus password: what is the difference

Your PIN is a four-digit code used only at ATMs and some payment terminals. Your password is what you use to log into your card's online account or app. They are separate — resetting one does not affect the other. If you have forgotten your password instead of your PIN, use the "Forgot Password" link on your card issuer's website or app to reset it separately.

Some issuers also offer a CVV or security code, which is a three- or four-digit number printed on the back of your card used for online purchases. That is different from both your PIN and your password. Do not confuse the three numbers.

Why you might not have a PIN yet

If you have never set a PIN, your card issuer may not have prompted you to create one during signup. Many issuers make PIN setup optional. You can set one now through the app, website, or by calling customer service — the process is the same as resetting an existing PIN.

Some cards, particularly store credit cards or older accounts, may not support PIN-based transactions at all. If you cannot find a PIN option after checking the app and website, call customer service to confirm whether your card supports PIN transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the card issuer tell me my PIN if I forget it?

No. Card issuers do not store your actual PIN — they store only an encrypted version. This is a security measure. You must reset it through the app, website, or by calling customer service, but you cannot retrieve the old one.

How long does it take to reset my PIN?

If you use the mobile app or website, the new PIN is active when ready. If you reset by phone, it takes effect right away as well, though some issuers send a temporary PIN and ask you to change it online within 24 hours.

What if I set a PIN but cannot remember it?

You do not need to remember it — just reset it. Go through the app, website, or call customer service to create a new PIN. You will need to verify your identity first, but the process is straightforward.

Is my PIN the same as my CVV or security code?

No. Your PIN is a four-digit code for ATMs and terminals. Your CVV or security code is a three- or four-digit number on the back of your card used for online purchases. They are completely separate.

What if I cannot reset my PIN through the app or website?

Call the customer service number on the back of your card. The representative can reset your PIN over the phone or send you a find link via email. Have your card and ID ready for identity verification.