PIN numbers at ATMs

That's a frequently asked question here, and the standard answer is: establish a 4-digit PIN before you go, and use it here, before you leave on your trip, to make sure it works.

If your 6-digit PIN doesn't work, you have a big problem, so best to err on the side of caution.

I also have never had a 6 digit pin but have read a lot of posts re having a 4 digit pin (numbers only - no letters). Be VERY VERY sure to notify your bank AND credit card company of your travel plans. If you don't you run the risk of the bank or credit card companies' fraud alert folk trying to reach you on your home telephone (no luck there to say the least). Also get a personal I.D. pin number for your credit card(s). Required in some places in order to make a purchase (Switzerland's gas stations come to mind). Up your withdrawal limit for the duration of the trip and then go into a bank to withdraw cash if possible. ATM machines, in order not to run out of cash, frequently have lower limits than what you are technically authorized to withdraw.

Mary Gay,

I agree with Kent in that it would be better to go with a four-digit PIN. I suspect the "limiting factor" is the protocols of the ATM machines in Europe. I've never seen one that would accept a six-digit PIN.

Happy travels!

"Also get a personal I.D. pin number for your credit card(s). Required in some places in order to make a purchase (Switzerland's gas stations come to mind)."

Yes, this catches many Americans traveling to some parts of the world. In Sweden I was checking out at a grocery store, produced my MasterCard (credit, not debit) and the clerk asked me to input my PIN on a keypad. Luckily, I had the pin entered into a password-protected app on my Treo, so I was able to look it up, but I'd never been asked for a PIN on a credit card before (except for a cash advance at an ATM, which I avoid since it's so expensive). I found requiring the PIN to be common practice any time you use a credit card in Sweden.

Thank you all for your responses. Will talk to my bank re:Debit card 4 digits and get PINS for credit cards as well. mg

Mary Gay,

Also, make sure your travel funds are in a chequing account! AFAIK, those are the only accounts that can be accessed by the European Banks.

That's certainly been my experience, as NONE of the Banks I've used in various European countries has ever offered an option to access savings or other accounts.

Cheers!