I was looking up info on my debit card and using it abroad and my bank states that a PIN may be rejected if it starts with 0 (zero). Is this true? Any experience with this? It's a major US bank, but I did not see this when looking up info with my other bank. Is this just specific to this bank/card? If all else fails, I could change my PIN before and after the trip to Paris, just didn't want to if I didn't have to. I have enough on my to-do list, lol.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
Ana, One other point to mention is that it's a really good idea to pack along a "backup" ATM card, in case there are any problems with the primary card (I know that from personal experience!). Also, your travel funds must usually be in a chequing account. Happy travels!
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19274 posts
My debit card PIN starts with a '0' and works in Europe.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
This almost approaches "urban myth" status. There is or was a very small truth to the statement. In the very early days of ATMs, maybe 20, 30 years ago, zero was problem but it was quickly change. Zeros have been fine for decades now. I would worry about a bank that provides that kind of out dated info. However, you do need to stay with the four digits requirements.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
I have two debit cards from two separate accounts at two different credit unions. The PINs for both, not selected by me, both start with 0. I have used both cards abroad with no problem over the last 10 years or so of travel. If it was true once, it's no longer true that leading 0 causes a problem. It doesn't.
Posted by
OP
DFW, Texas, USA
5 posts
Thanks everyone! I was really shocked when I saw it, considering it hasn't been mentioned anywhere else. I saw everything about chip and pin cards, but I would think that would be something mentioned. Since it wasn't, I figured I'd ask. We have two separate checking accounts and a Capital One credit card just in case. Thanks again!