Credit card numbers explained
You probably think you should know what all the numbers mean on a credit card, but why would you if you’ve never had one before? Our guide breaks it down for you.
Key takeaways
The long credit card number uniquely identifies your card. It comprises the bank identification number (BIN), your account number, and a check digit at the end for verifying authenticity.
Common uses for a credit card number include online shopping, booking flights and hotels, and setting up automatic payments for recurring charges.
Additional numbers on a credit card, such as the security code (CVV), expiration date, and issue number, enhance transaction security and help manage card validity and replacement.
What is a credit card number?
A credit card number serves as a unique identifier for your card. It is not merely a random sequence of digits. Each number is structured to include information about the card issuer and your account.
When you make a purchase, the card number is used to identify your account so the card issuer can authorise the transaction and check whether it can be approved.
The structure includes a bank identification number (BIN) that identifies the issuing institution. It is followed by an account number and a check digit. The check digit is used to verify the card’s authenticity.
Find out more with our 'what is a credit card' guide page.
When will I need to use my credit card number?
Your credit card number is essential in several everyday situations. Here are common scenarios where you'll need it:
Online shopping
You're buying books, clothes, or electronics, for example. You’ll need to enter your credit card number at the online checkout to complete your purchase.
Booking flights or hotels
Planning a holiday or business trip? You'll usually need your credit card number to secure hotel bookings, hire cars and other reservations, even if you don't pay until later.
Setting up automatic payments
Your credit card number can be used to set up recurring payments for bills such as utilities and subscriptions. Once authorised, payments are taken automatically, helping you avoid missed payments.
What is the difference between my credit card number and my account number?
Understanding the distinctions between your credit card number and your account number is crucial.
A credit card number specifically identifies your card. This number is the long series of digits on the front or back of your card.
Conversely, an account number is tied directly to your bank account. It is used primarily for direct debits, bank transfers, or receiving money.
Each number plays a pivotal role in banking. The credit card number facilitates daily purchases and online shopping.
Meanwhile, the account number is essential for broader financial management and receiving funds.
Will my credit card number change when I get a new card?
When you receive a new credit card, the card number may change depending on why the replacement was issued.
If your card is lost, stolen or compromised, your card issuer will usually issue a replacement with a new card number.
This helps protect your account by preventing unauthorised use of the old card details.
If you're receiving a replacement because your card has expired, your issuer may keep the same card number, although the security code will usually change, as will the expiry date. In some cases, you'll receive a completely new card number.
It's important to activate your new card by following your issuer's instructions. This is often done through your banking app, online banking or by calling the activation number provided.
If your card number changes, remember to update your payment details with any services that use your card for recurring payments.
This includes subscriptions, utility providers and online retailers. Updating your details helps prevent failed payments and interruptions to your service.
What are the other numbers that are found on a credit card?
Security code (CVV)
The Card Verification Value (CVV) is a three or four-digit security code printed on your credit card. On most cards it appears on the back, while on American Express cards it is on the front. The CVV provides an extra layer of security by helping verify that the person making a purchase has the physical card.
Expiration date
The expiration date is usually printed on the front of your card, although some cards display it on the back. It shows when the card expires and helps your card issuer know when to send a replacement. It is also used as an additional security check when making purchases online or over the phone.
Issue number
An issue number was once used on some UK payment cards to distinguish between different versions of the same card account after a replacement or renewal. It helped identify the most recent card if an earlier one had been lost or replaced. Issue numbers are now uncommon and most modern credit cards do not include one.
What are virtual credit card numbers?
Virtual credit card numbers are temporary or unique card numbers linked to your existing credit card account. They can be created through your card issuer’s app or online banking, or provided by some banks and payment providers as an added security feature.
They allow you to make online or telephone purchases without sharing your actual card number. If the virtual number is compromised, it can often be deleted or replaced without affecting your physical card.
Some providers also let you set spending limits or expiry dates for added protection. Availability varies between providers.
You can read more about virtual credit cards with our guide.
Should I share my credit card number?
Only share your credit card number when you're making a payment with a trusted retailer or service provider. Be cautious about who you're sharing your card details with and how they're requested.
It's usually safe to…
Share your card number, expiry date and security code (CVV) when making a purchase with a trusted retailer over a secure website or by phone.
Provide your card details to trusted companies for recurring payments, such as utility bills, streaming services or insurance premiums.
Check that a website is secure before entering your details. Look for a padlock icon in your browser and ensure the web address starts with https://.
Never…
Share your CVV or full card details in an email, text message or social media message, even if the request appears to come from your bank or a retailer.
Give your card details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, such as through a cold call, unsolicited email or text message. Your bank will never ask for your full card number, CVV or PIN in this way.
Share your PIN with anyone or write it down where it could be found.
Provide one-time passcodes (OTPs) or verification codes sent by your bank. These are for your use only and should never be shared.
If your card details are compromised…
Contact your card issuer immediately if you think your card details have been stolen or used fraudulently
Freeze or lock your card using your banking app if this feature is available, then report the issue to your card provider
Monitor your account for any unfamiliar transactions and report suspicious activity as soon as possible
Update your card details with legitimate merchants if your card is replaced and you use it for recurring payments.
Other useful guides
If you’re looking to find out everything about credit cards, you have come to the right place. We have easy-to-follow guides that cover everything you might need to know about getting the right credit card and using it wisely. These include:
Compare credit cards with MoneySuperMarket
If you’re looking for a credit card, it’s quick and easy to compare with MoneySuperMarket.
Our eligibility checker tool shows you the cards you’re most likely to be approved for by doing a ‘soft’ credit search, which won’t affect your credit score.
You'll be shown a range of credit cards, which you'll be able to sort according to features such as interest rate, length of interest-free period and your chances of being approved, before making a final decision. That way you can apply with greater confidence.
MoneySuperMarket is a credit broker – this means we’ll show you products offered by lenders. We never take a fee from customers for this broking service. Instead, we are usually paid a fee by the lenders – though the size of that payment doesn’t affect how we show products to customers.
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Tim Heming
Personal Finance Expert
Tim Heming is a journalist and editor who has written about personal finance for national newspapers and consumer websites for 15 years. Tim enjoys providing no-nonsense information to help consumers...
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Alan Cairns
Senior Content Editor
Alan breaks down money, home, and energy topics into plain English to help you save money. Ask him about pound cost averaging or Balkonkraftwerk.
