Chip-Card Frequently Asked Questions

What is a an chip-enabled card?

ILWU Credit Union's new chip-enabled debit card features an embedded microchip that improves security every time you make a purchase at a chip-enabled terminal. The chip technology creates a unique code for each transaction that is difficult to duplicate, reducing the risk of fraudulent charges on your account.

What if a merchant doesn't have a chip-enabled terminal? Will my card work?

Yes. Just swipe your card's magnetic stripe, like you would with your old card. Online purchases still work the same way they did with your old card.

How do I know when to swipe or insert the new card?

When in doubt, swipe your card. If the terminal is chip-enabled, it will recognize that your card has a chip and prompt you to insert it instead.

Does my chip card work at the ATM?

Yes. You can still use your card at an ATM to get cash, check balances and more.

Where can I use my chip card?

You can use your card anywhere VISA is accepted worldwide. Use your chip card at the exact same merchants you do now by inserting the card into card terminals that are chip enabled or by swiping your card at merchant locations that have not yet switched to chip-enabled card terminals. You can also use your card as you did before for online payments and ATMs.

Are there any addtional fees with this new card?

No additional fees apply to the card.

How do I get a PIN (Personal Identification Number) for my new chip-enabled card?

Your PIN for your chip-enabled credit card will be mailed to you. You can change your PIN by calling the number on the PIN mailer from your primary phone number listed on your account. If you do not know what your primary phone number is on your account, please contact a Member Services Representative at 866.445.9828 to confirm or update your number.

How will I make a purchase with my chip-enabled card?

1. Insert the chip card "chip first" faced up into the chip-enabled terminal. With chip transactions, your card remains in the terminal throughout your transaction.

2. Follow the prompts on the terminal and wait for the transaction to be processed.

3. You will be asked for a signature to complete most purchases. In some cases a Personal Identification Number (PIN) may be requested.

4. Remove the chip card after the transaction is approved and you are prompted to do so.

You can still use your card in the traditional way by swiping the magnetic stripe in the swipe section of a terminal if it permits.