Chip & PIN
The microchip inside your Card
that helps make an already safe
payment system even more secure.
How to use your PIN
Step 1
Insert your Chip Card into the terminal; it will stay there for the duration of the transaction.
Step 2
Follow the prompts and key in your unique four-digit PIN to authorize the transaction. Your PIN replaces your signature.
Step 3
You will be given a receipt to confirm that your transaction has gone through successfully.
How to manage your PIN
We've made PIN management easy through your Online Services account.
Log in to your account for information on managing your account, and the simple steps to unlock or change your PIN.
FAQs
A Chip Card contains a small embedded microchip, which encrypts your account information, making it difficult to duplicate, copy or access. Transactions can only be completed when your Card is inserted into a chip-enabled terminal and you enter your unique PIN – a number that identifies you as the rightful holder of your Card and replaces your signature. This technology is more advanced than magnetic stripe technology, and it will make an already safe payment system even more secure.
You can use your American Express Card at any merchant that has a chip-enabled terminal.
If your American Express Chip Card is stolen, it will be very difficult for someone to use it without your personal PIN. In the case that your Card is lost or stolen, you should always call American Express immediately.
Yes. The existing PIN on your Card will work for both purchases and cash access. To view your PIN, please log into Online Services.
You may have entered the incorrect PIN. To view your PIN, please log into Online Services. If you are still experiencing problems, please call the number located on the back of your Card.
For your first transaction post PIN change, remember to use your old PIN one more time to complete the transaction. Following that, you can use your new PIN for all transactions.
There are no limitations on the combination of the 4 numeric digits you can select across your Cards. We encourage you to select a PIN that you can easily remember, but difficult for someone to guess.
- Never reveal your PIN to anyone, including friends, family members, merchants or American Express customer service representatives; you will never be asked to provide your PIN by an American Express agent.
- Do not write your PIN down anywhere, including on your American Express Card.
- Do not keep your Card and PIN in the same place, such as in your wallet or purse.
- Do shield the keypad with your hand or body when you are entering your PIN at an ABM or at a store.
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Mobile Wallets
Pay with your eligible mobile device using secure mobile Wallets.
Tap to Pay
Your Card is tap enabled for quick and easy payments1. Just tap to pay and be on your way!
1 At participating American Express contactless merchants. Transaction limits may apply.
®: Used by Amex Bank of Canada under license from American Express.