TFCU's Chip Card FAQ
Why am I receiving a new debit card?
TFCU is upgrading your debit card to offer you a more secure way to pay with chip technology. We are committed to helping you reduce your risk of financial fraud and are happy to provide this technology designed to do just that.
What is chip technology and why do I need it?
The card’s chip contains encrypted information used to process your transactions that is extremely difficult to copy or counterfeit. We are switching to chip cards for enhanced security. The microchip provides extra protection of your information when used at a chip-enabled terminal. A new transaction code will be created every time you use your card, decreasing the ability for hackers to make fraudulent charges on your card.
Will my debit card number be the same?
If you are the primary person on the account then yes, your number will remain the same. If you are a joint owner on an account, you will receive a new card as well as a new card number. For security and authorization purposes, each member needs their own unique card number to protect against and minimize counterfeit transactions.
What should I do with my old card?
We encourage you to activate your new card immediately! As soon as you do, your old one will be deactivated. At that point, you should destroy it.
Why am I being asked to verify my contact information with TFCU?
Please make sure your member contact information (name, address, phone number(s) and email address) is up to date so there will not be a delay in receiving or activating your new chip card. Plus, with the threat of fraud it’s important that we can reach you if we feel you may be compromised. Having up-to-date contact info in our system helps us keep your money safe and avoid any disruptions to service.
I like to process my transactions as Credit. Can I still select the Credit option with my new card when paying?
Yes, but sometimes the options on the chip-enabled terminals may look different than before, and you may need to ask the store’s cashier how to back out of the debit transaction and proceed as credit.
I use my debit card for automatic payment to certain merchants. Do I need to notify them of this change?
Your chip card may have a new card number, expiration date and security code on the back of the card. If you have automatic payments linked to your card, please update the merchant with your new information.
Will all my TFCU cards have chip technology?
Yes. All of TFCU’s electronic access cards are transitioning to chip technology. VISA Credit Cards were upgraded to chip cards November 2016; and as part of our Debit Card accelerated reissuance over the next 12 months, members will be receiving their new debit card in the month it is scheduled to be reissued – regardless of the year it expires. We also provide chip cards at account opening or as needed via our instant issue program at all branch locations.
What will the new cards look like?
Your new Chip Card will be simple to use:
- Insert your card, face up and chip end into the chip-enabled terminal.
- Leave the card in the terminal during the entire transaction.
- 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 does not support chip technology, the magnetic stripe on your card will still work and you will swipe your card and sign for your purchase.
