A postal code is not physically present on an ATM card. Instead, it is linked to the cardholder's billing address and used as a security measure during transactions.
Explanation of Postal Code and ATM Cards
The postal code, also known as a zip code, is a series of digits that identifies a specific geographic region for postal purposes. When you use your ATM card (or debit card) for online purchases or at certain merchants, you may be asked to provide your postal code. This serves as a form of verification to ensure you are the legitimate cardholder.
How the Postal Code is Used
- Verification: When making a purchase, the entered postal code is checked against the postal code associated with your card's billing address stored by the bank.
- Security: This helps prevent unauthorized use of your card. If an incorrect postal code is entered, the transaction may be declined.
- Address Verification System (AVS): This system is used by merchants to verify the cardholder's address and postal code to reduce fraud.
Where to Find Your Postal Code
Your postal code is the one associated with your billing address, which is typically where you receive your bank statements.
Example
If your billing address is:
John Doe
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 91234
Your postal code is 91234.
Key Takeaway
The postal code isn't printed on the ATM card itself, but it is a crucial piece of information linked to your account and used for security verification.
