Q: How do I apply for a Mastercard?

Mastercard does not issue cards directly to consumers, please contact a financial institution to apply for a Mastercard product. Please click here for the list of financial institutions that issue Mastercard Card. 

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card.

Q: The ATM wouldn't accept my card. What should I do?

A: If you had a problem using an ATM, please contact the bank that issued your card for assistance.

 

Q: Can I pay my billers who accept Mastercard directly from this site?

A: No. To pay a bill, please visit your biller's Web site for instructions on how to provide payment to them.

Q: Do I have to pay a fee for bill payment using a Mastercard?

A: Mastercard does not charge a fee for bill payment. While most service providers do not charge a fee, be sure to ask if they charge any fees or have any restrictions associated with making a payment using your Mastercard.

Q: How do I pay a bill with a Mastercard?

A: Please contact your biller to make an electronic payment. Many provide this payment option through their Web sites or by phone. 

Q: How often can I make automatic bill payments, and when do bills get paid?

A: Automatic bill pay is an arrangement you make with your selected biller or service provider(s), so you will need to contact each directly to arrange payment amounts and scheduling. Each biller has its own procedure for automatic bill payment. 

Q: Is there a limit to the number of automatic bill payments I can have on a Mastercard?

A: No, but you may be limited in making overall charges to your Mastercard account if doing so would cause you to exceed your credit limit.

Q: Who issued my card?

A: You will find your card issuer's contact information on the back of your Mastercard and on your billing statement.

Q: Which cards can I use to pay bills?

A: You can use a credit or debit card that bears the Mastercard logo. We recommend that you confirm with each biller to ensure that it accepts your card as a form of payment.

Q: What is automatic bill payment?

A: Automatic bill payment can help you avoid late fees and charges by allowing your selected service providers to automatically charge your Mastercard account on a regular basis.

Q: What is manual bill payment?

A: With manual bill payment, you have the freedom of selecting the amount to pay and the date on which you want to make payment. Each time a bill is due, you initiate the payment process.

Q: If I enroll in automatic bill payment, will I continue to receive a bill?

A: Automatic bill pay is an arrangement you make with your selected service provider(s), so you will need to contact each directly (by phone or online) to arrange payment amounts and scheduling. Most billers continue to mail a bill indicating the total amount they will charge. However, some providers may allow you to elect to receive an online bill or no bill at all. At the time you initiate an automatic bill payment relationship, you should determine how the provider will bill you.

Q: What information will the service provider/biller request?

A: Bill pay is an arrangement you make with your selected service provider(s), so you will need to contact each provider directly to arrange payment amounts and scheduling.

Typically, the biller will ask for your Mastercard account number and the expiration date. For automatic bill payment, the biller may also require the payment amount it is authorized to automatically charge, and the specific date you wish to be charged each month.

Note: Not every service provider/biller will allow you to choose this date. And, some service providers may require additional information, such as your signature.

Q: What if my Mastercard account information changes?

A: Your Mastercard account information may change due to a lost or stolen card, expiration date change or an upgrade to a new product. To prevent an interruption in service, you must contact each biller and give them your new account information. We recommend that you keep a list of the billers that you pay automatically so you can efficiently update this information when necessary.

Q: What if I want to stop an automatic bill payment?

A: Contact the biller with whom you've set up the automatic bill payment, and follow their procedures to cancel or change the method of payment.

Q: What if I don't agree with a payment amount made to a biller/service provider on my Mastercard statement?

A: It is recommended that you review the paper or electronic bill that your biller provides prior to any payment being made with your Mastercard. However, if there is an error or question about a payment billed to your card, contact your biller immediately to resolve payment discrepancies.

As a Mastercard cardholder, you are not responsible for unauthorized purchases charged to your account. Learn more about our Mastercard Liability Protection* coverage. Exceptions apply.

Q: What are the benefits of bill payment using a Mastercard?

A: Using your Mastercard is much faster and more convenient than writing checks. You can initiate payments at anytime and from anywhere in the world. Charges will appear on your monthly statement, so it is an easy and efficient way to stay organized and keep track of your expenses. In addition, if  you use automatic bill payment you won't have to worry about missed payments or late fees. Depending on the card you use, you may also be able to earn rewards.

Q: Having problems accessing mastercard.com?

A: This site is optimized for the following browsers:

• Google Chrome (latest version)
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Q: What card benefits and insurance are provided at no cost to me with my Mastercard?

A: Mastercard provides many different features and benefits that vary depending on the specific card you use. To learn more about your card benefits, please contact your issuing bank.

Q: What happens if I lose an item that I purchased with a Mastercard?

A: If you lost an item that you paid for in full with your Mastercard, you may be eligible for replacement or reimbursement. Mastercard provides many different features and benefits that vary depending on the specific card you have. To learn more contact your issuing bank.

Q: How can I find out more about my card benefits?

A: Mastercard provides many different features and benefits that differ depending on the specific card that you have. To find out the benefits offered by your card, please contact your issuing bank.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card.

Q: How can I get the name of the merchant where my card account was compromised?

A: Mastercard appreciates the concern and diligence you are taking to protect your finances as it relates to credit cards and the inquiry regarding a card account breach that has impacted you directly. We take each card breach occurrence very seriously and work closely with investigative agencies. Additionally, Mastercard has increased penalties to processors to help ensure each of these companies protects cardholder data with extreme care and diligence.

Specific to card breaches, Mastercard cannot determine which merchant transaction caused a card breach since this data is not generally provided to us. We encourage you to contact the financial institution that issued your Mastercard for the most up-to-date information. Typically, there is a customer service number on the back of each card that you can call.

Q:  What is cash with purchase?

A:  Cash with purchase is a service offered by select retailers that allows consumers to get cash from their debit card when making a purchase.

Q:   Is there a fee for this service?

A: Although the majority of retailers do not charge for this service, there are some locations that charge a fee.

Q:  What is the advantage of getting cash at purchase?

A:  Cash with purchase is a convenient way to quickly and easily get cash from your account while shopping at your favorite retail locations, saving you a trip to the ATM. And, in most cases, there is no fee for this service whereas you may be required to pay a fee at the ATM. 

Q:  Is there a maximum amount of cash I can get with my purchase?

A:  The amount of cash available may vary by merchant and may be subject to availability of funds at the time of purchase. If you have questions about the availability of funds at a particular merchant, please contact the merchant directly. Cash with purchase amount is also subject to availability of funds in the account that is linked to your debit card.

Q: What is an EMV chip card, and how can this technology help my business?

A: The EMV chip card is a card embedded with a computer chip. They are simple to use and accept, and give cardholders increased convenience and security. These cards can even keep track of purchases, offering retailers and service providers marketing opportunities.

Q: What are chip cards?

A: A chip card is like the card you have today, but includes an embedded microchip. The chip contains information that is encrypted making it extremely difficult for the card to be copied or counterfeited.

Q: What are the benefits of chip?

A: The embedded microchip provides robust security features and other capabilities that are not possible with traditional magnetic stripe cards. A chip card is virtually impossible to counterfeit.

Q: Who do I contact if I want more information?

A: For more information about your chip card, please contact your financial institution.

Q: How does chip work?

A: Whether your card is inserted in the terminal or tapped, the chip communicates with the terminal to determine whether the card is authentic. Typically, the terminal will prompt you to enter a PIN to validate your identity. Once approved, your transaction will be complete.

Q: How do I know if my chip card has Mastercard contactless?

A: Cards that have contactless capabilities will have the word "contactless" and may also have a contactless symbol on the card. You can tap to pay at merchants that have the following symbol or contactless on the terminal:   

If a merchant does not have this functionality, you will need to insert your chip card into the terminal and enter your PIN.

Q: Why does my credit card have a PIN?

A: Your credit card has a PIN in order to provide you with the latest security features. By entering your PIN, you validate that you are the authorized user of the card. You will not be charged a fee to use your PIN unless you are using your credit card to get a cash advance at the ATM.

 

Consumer FAQs

Q: What is Mastercard contactless?

A: Mastercard contactless is like having exact change wherever you go. A simple tap of your card, key fob or smart phone is all it takes to pay at checkout.

Q: Why should I use contactless?

A: There are many benefits to contactless payments:

• It's like having exact change wherever you go, so you don't have to worry about carrying around cash or fishing for coins.
• You are in control because your contactless-enabled card or device never leaves your hand at checkout.
• You get better record keeping of all your purchases than you do when using cash.
• It's fast and ideal at places where speed is essential, like stadiums, fast food restaurants, gas stations and more.

Q: Where can I make contactless payments?

A: Anywhere you see the contactless symbol at checkout  you can simply tap to pay. This includes fast food restaurants, gas stations, convenience stores, pharmacies, stadiums and more.

Find participating locations

If you don't see the symbol, your contactless-enabled card can still be used by inserting your chip card or swiping at checkout.

Q: How do I pay with Mastercard contactless?

A: To make a purchase, simply tap your Mastercard contactless card, key fob or smart phone on the payment reader at the checkout of participating retail locations.

Find participating locations

Q: Can I use my contactless card or device on payment readers that don't display the contactless logo?

A: You can make contactless payments on any contactless payment reader that displays this symbol . You may also use contactless cards in magnetic stripe readers by swiping the card. However, you cannot use a contacless key fob or smart phone in a magnetic stripe reader.

Q: How close does the "tap" have to be to the checkout reader?

A: Typically, when you tap your card/device at checkout, it must be within an inch or two of the contactless symbol on the terminal at the counter. Please note that if you have more than one contactless card in your wallet, you should remove the specific card you would like to use rather than tapping your wallet against the reader.

Q: How will purchases appear on my monthly statement?

A: Purchases made with contactless will be displayed on your statement just like any other purchase you make with a card.

Q: How does it work?

A: Contactless uses a hidden embedded computer chip and radio frequency antennae. After you tap your contactless card or device at checkout, payment details are sent wirelessly to the Mastercard network. If using a mobile phone, moments after you tap, you'll receive payment confirmation and be on your way.

Q: What is a key fob or payment tag?

A: A key fob or payment tag is a special contactless device that you can attach to your key chain. Card issuers sometimes provide this as a companion to your traditional primary Mastercard plastic card. 

Q: Do I have to treat my Mastercard contactless card or device in any special way?

A: Treat your contactless card or device as you would any other credit, debit or prepaid card. Always know where your contactless card or device is and keep it in a safe place. And be sure to keep a record of all of your card numbers, expiration dates and emergency phone numbers.

Q: Is there a battery?

A: No, there is no battery.

Q: Do I need to turn it on/off?

A: If you have a contactless-enabled mobile phone, you can turn it on or off. If you are using contactless card or fob, it is always on and ready to use.

Q: Is it safe?

A: Yes. Contactless payments provide secure encryption technology and Zero Liability protection and are as safe as your regular card.

• You are in control – your contactless-enabled card or device never leaves your hands to make a payment
• No accidental payments – your contactless-enabled card or device must be close to the reader at checkout to work
• Not billed twice – even if you tap more than once at checkout, you'll only get billed once for your purchase

More about security

Q: Why aren't signatures required?

A: To ensure that using contactless is as simple and convenient as cash, merchants that accept contactless do not require you to sign for small purchases ($50 or below). However, for your protection, purchases over $50 generally require a signature or PIN.

Q: What do I do if my contactless card or device has been lost or stolen?

A: If you have lost your card or suspect unauthorized activity on your account, contact the financial institution that issued your card immediately. If you don't know your card issuer's number, contact Mastercard and we will assist you in finding that information.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card. You can always contact the Mastercard Assistance Center either toll free at 001-800-11-887-0663 or collect at 1-636-722-7111.

Merchant FAQs

      

Q: What is Mastercard contactless?

A: Mastercard contactless is like having exact change wherever you go. A simple tap of your card, key fob or smart phone is all it takes to pay at checkout.

Q: How does it work?

A: Contactless uses a hidden embedded computer chip and radio frequency antennae. After you tap your contactless card or device at checkout, payment details are sent wirelessly to the Mastercard network. If using a mobile phone, moments after you tap, you'll receive payment confirmation and be on your way.

Q: How will accepting Mastercard contactless benefit my business?

A: Contactless acceptance is proven to bring many benefits for merchants including:

• Faster check-out
• Promotes higher average spend
• Reduces costs related to cash handling
• Enables POS for mobile NFC and new digital payment devices like wearables

Q: What type of merchants can benefit the most from contactless acceptance?

A: Contactless acceptance is an excellent choice for any merchant, especially in environments where speed and convenience are valued or where cash is currently the dominant payment method. Examples include fast food outlets, supermarkets, quick-service restaurants, drive-thrus, convenience stores, vending machines, tollbooths, taxis, parking venues, fuel pumps and public transportation.

Q: Is Mastercard contactless secure?

A: Yes, Mastercard contactless transactions are processed through the same financial payments network that processes billions of Mastercard magnetic stripe and chip card transaction each year.

Mastercard contactless security mechanisms are designed to:

• Protect against counterfeit cards.
• Implement an efficient anti-replay mechanism for contactless transactions.
• Limit the impact of fraudulent capture of contactless data by fraudsters across all environments.

Even if the customer happens to tap twice by mistake, the technology ensures that consumer is bill once.

Q: Is it possible to make refunds to a contactless card, form factor and mobile phone?

A: Yes, it’s possible to issue a refund to customers by tapping the contactless payment device in the same manner as making a purchase. Please follow your store’s refund policy.

Q: Does contactless payment acceptance change the payment guarantee for the merchant?

A: No, if a contactless payment is authorized, online or offline, the merchant still receives a payment guarantee, even for transactions below the contactless CVM limit with no cardholder verification.

Q: What are the costs involved?

A: Cost will vary depending in the selected solution. To accept contactless payments, merchants can choose to implement a plug-in peripheral reader or a fully integrated POS or Stand-alone POS system.

Q: How is accepting mobile payments different than accepting cards?

A: To the cashier, mobile payments will look like contactless card payment; except the customer may verify their Mobile PIN, biometric or pattern recognition on the mobile device.

Q: How does the payment verification process work for contactless?

A: For transactions up-to the location established contactless cardholder verification limit, no PIN or signature is required for cards and form factors. For purchases above this limit, PIN code or signature is required.  For a purchase conducted with a mobile phone, the consumer will normally authenticate themselves on the mobile device with a Mobile PIN, biometric or pattern recognition.

Q: How would a customer know that contactless payments can be made at a location?

A: The point of sale (POS) reader must display the contactless acceptance symbol . Many merchants display POS signage highlighting contactless acceptance as well. 

In addition, within two months of a merchant’s first Mastercard contactless transaction, the merchant’s name and address should appear on the Mastercard Contactless Locator website and the Mastercard Nearby™ app.

Q: Could customers unknowingly make a purchase if they walk past the reader?

A: No, you have to activate the terminal first and the cashier must enter the payment amount to activate the contactless terminal. In addition, the card or device has to be held within 2 cm (1 inch) of the terminal.

Q: Does the merchant need to print a receipt for all contactless transactions?

A: No, you’re not required to print a receipt for low value transactions unless your customers asks for a receipt.

Q: What is the transaction limit for Mastercard contactless cards?

A: Contactless payments should be accepted for all amounts, the same as traditional card payment.

Q: What if the cash register doesn’t respond?

A: Try these troubleshooting steps:

• Make sure the terminal and adaptors are all turned on and plugged in. A light, wording or graphics on the screen should indicate the terminal is turned on.
• If your terminal is a non-integrated terminal with a separate contactless reader, make sure that the contactless reader is lit up after the transaction is registered. The light may not turn on before then.
• Register the transaction again as you would for a card transaction and ask your customers to tap again. Make sure their card/device is within 2 cm (1 inch) from the terminal and you hear a beep or see a change in the light.
• If your terminal is still not responding, contact the terminal manufacturer or distributor. 

Q: How does Mastercard contactless technology work for mobile devices?

A: At checkout, your customers will need to follow the prompts on their device (this varies depending on the type of device) and then simply tap their device correctly over the terminal. When paying with a mobile phone, your customer normally authenticate themselves on the mobile device with a PIN, biometric or pattern recognition.

Q: Where can I find exchange rate information?

A: In order to provide easy access to exchange rate information, Mastercard has created a tool using multiple market sources (such as Bloomberg, Reuters, Central Banks and others). 

Click here to visit our Currency Conversion Tool

Q. What is the currency rate for a country I am visiting?

If you would like to know what the latest currency exchange rate is for the location you are visiting, please visit our website for the latest currency exchange rates.

Q: How is currency conversion charged to my account?

A: We recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your card to determine the currency conversion charges that are applied to foreign transactions. Typically, there is a customer service number on the back of each card.

Q: I made a purchase in my local currency, so why was I charged a currency conversion fee?

A: We recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your card to determine the currency conversion charges that are applied to foreign transactions. Typically, there is a customer service number on the back of each card.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card.

Q: How do I begin accepting Mastercard?

A: It's easy to get started. The first step is to contact an acquirer or a payment services provider to apply for a merchant account with a bank or one of its agents. 

Get started accepting payments

Q: How can I accept e-Commerce payments?

A: Many payment service providers can assist you in accepting e-commerce payments. In fact, many providers can also help you create a Web site, add a shopping cart function and enhance the security of your site and transactions.

Q: How can I download the Mastercard brand mark for use on my Web site?

A: Electronic versions of the Mastercard brand mark are available from the Mastercard Brand Center for download.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, your best option is to contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they have your account specific information. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of each card that you can call.

Q: How can I apply for a Mastercard?

A: If you already have a deposit account with a bank, you might want to contact them first to see if they can provide you with a Mastercard. If you do not currently have a relationship with a financial institution or would like to get offers from various issuers, please click here

Q: Are there any programs that will help to grow my business?

A: Yes, Mastercard has programs designed to grow various types of businesses.

Q: How does the payment process work?

A: Let's review the payment process.

Q: What are the benefits of accepting Mastercard?

A: Whether you're a new or established business, card acceptance can have a positive impact on your bottom line. Here are just a few of the many benefits:

• Increased Sales
  Consumers spend more when they're not constrained by cash on hand. You may see increased purchases of higher-margin products as well as specialty items. And customers may visit your store more often.
• Higher Customer Satisfaction
  Your customers will appreciate the fact that you allow them the flexibility to pay the way they want to pay - including by credit or debit card. Happier customers are more loyal customers.
• Faster Checkout
  You'll speed your customers through checkout with rapid electronic payment. No more counting change or waiting while customers write checks.
• Improved Efficiency
  Card transactions are conducted electronically. These paperless payments can save you time and money by minimizing cash handling and payment reconciliation, giving you more time to do more important things - like managing and growing your business.
• Safety
  With lower volumes of cash, you're less vulnerable to theft and pilfering.
• Currency Conversion
  Electronic payments on Mastercard and Maestro-branded cards are settled in the currency in which you sell your goods and services, regardless of where the cardholder is from. So, if you sell in Singapore dollars, that's how you'll be paid.

Q: How do I start accepting card / digital payments?

A: Find what you will need to start accepting electronic payments.

Q: What's the difference between an acquirer and a payment facilitator?

A: A payment facilitator is a merchant of record who facilitates transactions on behalf of a sub-merchant. An acquirer is the bank or financial institution that processes credit and/or debit payments for a merchant.

Q: What's an acquirer and why do I need one?

A: Also referred to as a merchant bank, an acquirer is a financial institution that is licensed by Mastercard to help a merchant accept Mastercard payments. Acquirers either sell their processing services directly to merchants or hire agents to sell on their behalf. These agents must be registered with Mastercard and clearly identify the Mastercard issuing bank that they represent on their business cards and stationery. The merchant agreement should also clearly identify the name of the bank.

Q: What's an interchange rate?

A: Interchange rates are fees paid by acquirers to card issuers on purchase transactions conducted on payment cards. They are only one of many cost components included in a Merchant Discount Rate. Mastercard establishes its interchange rates, which are a necessary and efficient method by which Mastercard maintains a vibrant payments network.

Learn more about Mastercard interchange rates

Q: Who do I call if I have a problem with my point-of-sale terminals?

A: Contact your acquirer or payment facilitator if you have a question related to your terminals.

Q: Will I incur any cost to accept payments?

A: Your acquirer/payment facilitator will provide you with information about costs.

Q: I work in law enforcement and I'm investigating a fraud case, who can I speak with?

A: Please email our Law Enforcement Support Center at Law_Enforcement_Support@mastercard.com. Please do not include full card numbers in the email; provide only the first 6-digits of the card number. We will respond to your inquiry within 48 business hours.

Please also be advised that Mastercard does not maintain accounts or establish individual customer relationships with cardholders.  While banks and financial institutions do issue cards branded with the Mastercard name and mark under a license from Mastercard, the actual relationship with a cardholder is solely that of the issuing institution.  As a result, any account information is maintained by the bank or financial institution that issues the Mastercard card, and it is the bank or financial institution that also provides periodic statements, disclosures and communications to the cardholder.

Q: Where can I get Mastercard logos?

Downloadable logo artwork and usage guidelines are available at the Mastercard Brand Center.

Q: I no longer have my Mastercard, how do I report the card as lost or stolen?

A: A Mastercard representative will be able to assist you in filing a lost or stolen card report. You can call our Emergency Service number at 001-800-11-887-0663 for assistance. You should also contact the financial institution that issued your Mastercard.

Q: What liability do I have for unauthorized purchases made on a lost or stolen Mastercard?

A: If Mastercard Zero Liability protection applies to your Mastercard, once you report your card to Mastercard as lost or stolen, no unauthorized charges should be posted to your account in most situations. We recommend that you review the next two billing statements after you report a lost or stolen card to ensure that no unauthorized transactions have been posted. If you see unauthorized transactions, please promptly contact the financial institution that issued your card. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution listed on the back of the card or on your billing statement.

Q: How can I get a replacement card?

A: Mastercard can assist you in receiving a replacement card by working with the financial institution that issued your card.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card.

Q: Lost or stolen card?

A: Whether you're the victim of credit card theft, have lost your card or just need help locating an  ATM, we're here to assist you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call to speak with a representative regarding:

• Lost or stolen cards
• Emergency replacement cards
• Emergency cash advances
• How to locate an ATM that accepts Mastercard, Maestro and Cirrus brands
• Questions about applicable card benefits

Emergency Contact

In Thailand: 001-800-11-887-0663

Click here for a list of all emergency contact numbers.

For locations not listed in our directory, you can call the following number collect to the United States: 1-636-722-7111.

Q: Where can I get a Mastercard Prepaid Card?

A: It's easy to find the Mastercard Prepaid Card that's right for you. They are available at participating stores and online.

Q: Do I have to activate and register my prepaid card before using it?

A: Activation and registration requirements vary, so check your card packaging for detailed instructions. To take advantage of the reload function and card benefits such as zero liability or card replacement, you will need to register your card.

Q: How do I use a Mastercard Prepaid Card?

A: When you're ready to make a purchase, give the cashier your card or, if asked, swipe your card at the terminal. The purchase amount will automatically be deducted from the card balance.

Q: Where can I use my Mastercard Prepaid Card?

A: You can use your Mastercard Prepaid Card anywhere that Debit Mastercard is accepted - that's millions of locations worldwide from retail stores to online, mail and phone orders. You can also use your card to pay bills online.

Q: My available card balance will not cover my purchase amount. Can I still use my prepaid card?

A: Yes, just tell the cashier in advance how much to deduct from your prepaid card and how much you will pay using an alternate payment method. Note that this process, known as "split tender," may not be supported by all merchants.

Q: How do I return an item that was purchased on a Mastercard Prepaid Card?

A: When you make a return, the cashier may ask to see your card. The value of the returned merchandise will be credited back to the card.

Q: What if my card is lost or stolen?

A: Contact the issuer of your card immediately to report a lost or stolen card. There is a customer service number listed on the back of the card. Be sure to keep a record of the Mastercard Travel Card number. Your issuer may need this information to cancel the card and issue a replacement. 

If you registered your Mastercard Travel prepaid card, it may provide Zero Liability protection. Certain exceptions apply. Click here for terms & conditions.

Q: How much does a Mastercard reload transaction cost?

A: Retailers may charge reload fees. Please refer to the fees section and also check with your local participating retailer for the most up-to-date information.

Q: Questions not answered here?

A: If your question is not listed, we recommend that you contact the financial institution that issued your account as only they hold information specific to your account. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of the card.

Q: How can I get a replacement card?

A: Please contact your financial institution that issued your card to arrange a replacement card.

Q: I received an email/phone call from Mastercard about my account but it appears to be a scam or a phishing email. What should I do?

A: Mastercard will never solicit personal or account information from a cardholder and we suspect that the information you received is fraudulent. Consumers should always safeguard their personal information and refrain from responding to suspicious email/phone scams. If you suspect fraud on your account, please contact your issuing bank immediately to report it. We would appreciate if you could forward the original email to stopit@mastercard.com. 

Q: Someone called to offer a lower rate on my Mastercard but it seems to be a scam. What should I do?

A: Mastercard does not contact individuals to request personal information including credit or debit card account information. If you received an unsolicited phone call, email, text or social media request from an individual claiming to be a Mastercard representative do not respond.

Mastercard cardholders should always safeguard their personal information and not respond to any suspicious emails or inquiries.

If you are a victim of a phishing attack and believe your account information may have been compromised, please contact the financial institution that issued your credit card or debit card to report the incident.

Q: I believe fraudulent purchases were made on my Mastercard credit card or debit card. How do I report it?

A: If you believe that a transaction posted to your account is fraudulent, you should immediately contact the financial institution that issued your card. Typically, there is a customer service number for your financial institution on the back of each card that you can call.

Q: I know who committed fraud on my Mastercard credit card or debit card. How do I report it?

A: If you believe that you have information about a person who has committed fraud by using your Mastercard without your permission, please contact the financial institution that issued your card. Contact information can be located on the back of your card or on a monthly billing statement.

Q: I believe someone has applied for a Mastercard credit card in my name. What should I do?

A: Mastercard does not issue cards and we can't tell you if an account has been opened in your name. If you know the name of the financial institution, you should contact them immediately and cancel the account.

Q: There was a breach on my account and I received a new card. How can I get more information?

A: Mastercard appreciates the concern and diligence you are taking to protect your finances. We take each card breach very seriously and work closely with investigative agencies. We encourage you to contact your financial institution for the most up-to-date information. Typically, there is a customer service number on the back of the card that you can call.

Q: How do I report potential fraud?

A: If you possess contact information for someone who has committed fraud on a Mastercard account, please contact your merchant service provider for assistance in reaching the financial institution that issued the Mastercard account.

Q: Can a merchant charge a surcharge or fee when I use my Mastercard card?

A: Merchants can charge an extra fee to customers who pay with debit, prepaid or credit cards, where permissible by law. Merchants must clearly disclose their surcharge policies at the register or point of payment and clearly indicate the amount of the surcharge on the receipt.

Q: Someone called to offer a lower rate on my Mastercard but it seems to be a scam. What should I do?

A: Please be advised that Mastercard does not attempt to contact individuals to request personal information including credit or debit card account information. If you receive an unsolicited phone call, email, text message or social media request from an individual claiming to be a Mastercard representative: DO NOT RESPOND.

Mastercard cardholders should always safeguard their personal information and not respond to any suspicious emails or other inquiries.

If you are a victim of a phishing attack and believe your account information may have been compromised, please contact the bank or financial institution that issued your credit, debit or prepaid card to report the incident.

Q: What is tokenization?

A: Tokenization is the process of replacing a card’s primary account number (PAN)—the 16-digit number on the plastic card—with a unique alternate card number, or “token.” Tokens can be used for mobile point-of-sale transactions, in-app purchases or online purchases.

Q: What are the benefits of tokenization?

A: Tokenization reduces fraud related to digital payments by making transactions more secure by including a dynamic component with each transaction. It takes the security of a physical EMV chip and applies it to non-card environments including proximity, mobile and internet payments.

Merchants benefit from more secure transactions, as well as faster checkout experiences, new payment acceptance options and more ways to sell.

Q: How do I ensure that I can accept transactions from eligible devices?

A: Existing contactless terminals are compatible with tokenized transactions and no action is required. Mastercard offers merchants a free, optional service for a more secure in app payment acceptance called Digital Secure Remote Payment (DSRP). To use DSRP merchants must:

• Contact their acquirer to ensure that they support DSRP
• Integrate their mobile app with the digital wallet partner

Q: What is Mastercard’s role in the launch of digital wallets?

A: The new digital wallets connect into Mastercard Digital Enablement Service (MDES), so participating issuers can enable secure mobile payments on millions of devices.

Q: What do these new digital payments mean for me?

A: For consumers and merchants alike, every purchase made with a tokenized Mastercard debit, credit, prepaid or small business card using a Digital Wallet offers the enhanced security and benefits of a digital Mastercard transaction including secure tokenization technology.

Q: Will this affect the way that I identify new or returning consumers?

A: Merchants that use card numbers to identify customers will not be able to recognize returning customers if it is the first time they are using their token since it appears as a new card number. However, when used again, merchants will be able to recognize the token associated with the consumer’s device.

Q: Do any of the digital wallets support my loyalty programs?

A: Google Pay allows merchant loyalty program cards to be added and used at checkout.