What is a PIN and what is it used for?
A Personal Identification Number (PIN) issued to each cardholder to enable them to: • identify themselves by entering their PIN (instead of a signature) when making purchases in shops where the Chip and PIN facility is available, • withdraw cash from any ATM displaying the VISA sign (for Visa cardholders) or the MasterCard or Cirrus sign (for MasterCard holders). Note that some companies may choose not to allow access to cash from ATMs for their cardholders. If a card is reported lost or stolen, a new PIN will be issued. In order to prevent fraud and theft, cardholders should never disclose their PIN number or keep a record of it with their card.
It’s an electronic access code number that serves as your identifier. Your PIN helps you to: • Apply online for federal student aid, using FAFSA on the Web. • “Sign” your application electronically and complete the student aid process totally online. If you’re a dependent student and your parents have a PIN, they can sign the application electronically, as well. Signing the application at the time you apply means you’ll get your results faster. • Make corrections to your FAFSA. • Access your Student Aid Report and make corrections to it. • Access all your federal student aid records online, including federal loan information.
