Contactless Cards Are Coming. What You Need To Know.
Over the years, we’ve seen technology evolve. From the simple MAC card, to a debit card, an EMV Chip card and now contactless cards, we’ve come a long way in a short amount of time.
AmeriChoice will be transitioning our VISA credit cards to contactless cards throughout 2020. What does this mean for you and how do you use a contactless card?
All members who currently have a VISA credit card with us will be receiving a new card in the mail as current cards expire that contains the contactless feature, along with the magnetic stripe and EMV Chip. Contactless cards are as quick, simple and easy as “look, tap, go”.
How do you use your contactless card? It’s so simple! When you’re checking out at a merchant, many of the card readers will tell you to swipe the magnetic stripe, insert the chip or tap for contactless. If the card reader doesn’t tell you, simply look for the contactless symbol (it looks like a wifi symbol turned on its side). Hold your card 1-2 inches from the screen and wait a few seconds for the beep, check mark or a green light from the machine to let you know that the payment went through and you’re good to go.
Many national retailers, including Starbucks, Dunkin’, 7-Eleven, Panera Bread, Whole Foods, Aldi, Costco and CVS are accepting contactless payments.
For our members who travel internationally, over half of the merchants in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and France are accepting contactless payments.
Tapping your VISA card to pay is safe! The chip in your card accompanies a one-time code that will securely process your payment. The risk of your card being “skimmed” by a fraudster on the street is slim, the contactless chip needs to be within 2 inches of a card reader and is accompanied by that one-time code for purchases.
If you encounter a merchant that isn’t taking contactless payments yet, simply use the EMV Chip or magnetic stripe on your card to make your purchase.
If you don’t have an AmeriChoice VISA and would like to apply for one, click here.