Frequently Asked Questions on Account Truncation

What does "account number truncation" mean?
Although individual states' and card brand company requirements may vary, Chase Paymentech's products have been designed to comply with the following definition: account number truncation is the suppression of the expiration date and all but the last four digits of the cardholder's account number on electronically printed transaction receipts.

Do I have to provide account number truncation on every single receipt?
No. Account number truncation rules do not apply to handwritten or manually imprinted receipts, but are strongly suggested for the merchant's copy of the receipt. In some point of sale product configurations (i.e: restaurant applications), the merchant's copy of the receipt may be needed to re-enter transactions that may be lost during a power outage or equipment failure. Be aware of changing federal regulations, card brand company requirements and your state legislation to form educated decisions regarding your store policies.

Why is account number truncation necessary?
In an age of increasing awareness and concerns over protecting private information and reducing fraud, the credit card industry and many states have enacted laws and regulations to protect personal account information.

How do I know if my POS terminal is compliant or not?
To be compliant with card association rules, you should not see more than the last four (Visa and MasterCard) or five (American Express and Discover) digits of the cardholder number on the receipt, nor should you see the card expiration date.

When do the new requirements go into effect?
For newly deployed terminals - immediately. Visa required that all terminals deployed after July 1, 2003 be in compliance immediately. Terminals that were in use prior to July 1, 2003 must have been compliant by July 1, 2006. MasterCard set its new and existing terminal deadline at April 1, 2005. Meeting the Visa/MasterCard deadlines will meet federal deadlines. Individual state deadlines will vary, and in many cases the deadline for compliance has passed.

What do I do if I am not in compliance?
If your terminal prints a full cardholder account number and/or the card expiration date on the customer or merchant copy of the receipt, contact your account representative to ask for upgrade assistance.

What are the penalties if I am not compliant?
Penalties for non-compliance vary. We encourage you to visit your state's legislative website and the website of the Federal Trade Commission for information and to learn the specific penalties.

How much will this cost me to upgrade and comply?
Chase Paymentech offers a broad array of compliant equipment and application software choices. Some customers will only require a new application, other customers may need to purchase an upgraded terminal. Please call your account manager to learn more about your business' requirements.

If you need further assistance please contact your account representative.