Credit card transactions in the U.S using PIN numbers

Chip & Pin does not exist in the USA. The PIN pads there are only used with magnetic stripe debit cards. The only UK debit cards they will recognise are Maestro debit cards.

Thanks for the quick reply Matthew; however, something does not add up. When I try to use my credit cards on a retailer's machine that does not have the facility for putting in a signature (and these are becoming more common here), the display asks for a PIN - and then does not accept my PIN, but displays a "Not Authorised" message. Stalemate

- so I then have to pay by cash.

CRB

The display probably asked if it is a debit or credit card. Always choose credit, regardless of your actual card type, and you will not be asked for a PIN. The USA does not use PINs for credit cards except when they are being used to withdraw cash advances from ATMs. If the machine does not have a facility for entering a signature then (for all transactions over some small floor limit) you will be required to sign a copy of the paper receipt that is printed by the machine after the transaction is accepted.

Tony

Thanks for the input Anthony, this solved my problem at the local Publix store. I was also advised by a seemingly knowledgeable cashier that if the display at another retailer does ask for a PIN, simply press the Enter button.

CRB

One other advice, if you have a visa debit card, which UK issues, choose the credit button as well for that card.

However, it might work with a pin on the interlink atm network. Don't really know for sure on this.

Greg