Pen or PIN - FAQs

What is a PIN?
How many digits is my PIN?
How will I transact?
Can I still sign?
I know my PIN; do I need a new one?
I forgot or have misplaced my PIN, how do I get a new one?
Will there be a PIN on the MasterCard® Gift card?
What happens if I have a secondary card?
Will my card be taken if I get the PIN wrong three times, like an ATM?

What is a PIN?

PIN stands for personal identification number. It is the security access code that belongs specifically to that card. Note, while a card can have multiple account access, there is a single PIN to access the card itself

How many digits is my PIN?

Westpac issues 4-digit PIN numbers on its cards. However, some customers elect to have a PIN greater than 4 digits. This is not recommended as some industries (and countries) only accept a 4-digit PIN with their terminals. Having a longer PIN can result in unsuccessful transactions.

How will I transact using my PIN?

For face-to-face purchases, you will be able to verify the transaction with the PIN that belongs to your card. You do this by pressing 'Credit' on the payment terminal. You will then be prompted to enter your PIN, press OK and then be issued with a receipt.

Can I still sign?

Yes. However if you know your PIN we encourage you to use it to verify the sale as it will be quicker and more convenient for you and the merchant.

I know my PIN; do I need a new one?

No, you do not need a new PIN. If however your card is re-issued in the future and your PIN does change, we will write to you with new PIN details.

I forgot or have misplaced my PIN, how do I get a new one?

Phone 1300 788 384 and request a PIN to be mailed to your address. This usually takes up to 5 working days.

Will there be a PIN on the MasterCard® Gift card?

No, there is no PIN on this card type. You will need to use signature verification for in-person transactions.

What happens if I have an additional card?

All cards have a dedicated PIN. The additional cardholders on your account should also receive their own dedicated PIN. Please contact Westpac (1300 788 384 Monday - Friday 8am - 8pm EST) if you have any questions regarding additional cardholders.

Will my card be taken if I get the PIN wrong 3 times, like an ATM?

No, your card will not be taken by the shop. If the card becomes 'blocked' due to too many incorrect PIN tries, further attempts to use the card for PIN transactions will be declined.

Business customers

If you need a credit card for business purposes, see our range of Business cards.

MasterCard Exclusives

For those things money can buy, MasterCard is accepted at more locations worldwide and offers cardholders an exclusive box office ticketing service.

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