How do I Figure Out the Security Code for a Credit Card?

Security codes verify your account.

Credit cards have a 15- or 16-digit number that identifies your account for billing purposes. Credit cards also have a three- or four-digit security code used to verify that you are the account holder when you are making purchases online or over the phone. Merchants will ask for the security code in addition to your card number before completing the transaction.

Instructions

1. Determine whether your credit card is issued by American Express or a different creditor such as Visa or Mastercard by looking at the logo on the front of the card. If American Express did not issue your card, skip to step 3.

2. Locate the four digits in small type above and to the right of your credit card number as of 2010. This is the security code if you have any American Express card.

3. Turn over your credit card so you see the back of the card.

4. Locate the last four digits of your credit card on the back of your card.

5. Find the next three digits following the end of your credit card number. This is your credit card security code.

References

• Apple.com: How to find the security code on a credit card