Today a cashier asked to see my identification when I tried to pay for something with my Visa credit card. I thought they weren't allowed to do that. When I asked why it was necessary she assured me that it was for my protection, that she needed to know that I was really me and not someone who had stolen the card (this was before the card was swiped or she even looked at the signature). I searched the Visa website and the only time merchants are instructed to ask for ID is when the card is unsigned. With all the fraud protection offered by the credit card companies it seems unreasonable and insulting that I should have to prove I'm not a theif! Can I refuse to show my ID? If I won't show my ID, can the merchant refuse to accept my perfectly good, non-stolen credit card?
2007-03-24 11:42:43 · 15 answers · asked by Anna 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Personal Finance
I seem to always make people angry when I type this answer, but, I didn't make the credit card policies.
It is against Visa, MasterCard and AmEx policy for a merchant to request ID when the card has a proper signature.
If a merchant requests ID, when the card has a proper signature, and the person files a complaint with Visa, MC or AmEx - the merchant may receive a warning. If more complaints are filed, the merchant may receive a fine and/or lose the right to take whichever credit card (Visa, MC or AmEx)
It is against credit card policy for a merchant to request a fee for using a credit card for purchases - It is also against the law in some states.
If a properly signed credit card is stolen, the card holder is only liable for the first $50. If the card company realizes that the card had not been properly signed, the card holder may be responsible for the full amount of any charges due because of the theft.
2007-03-24 19:39:44 · answer #1 · answered by echo 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You sound really silly, you know. You're upset that someone's making sure it's you using your credit card?
Fraud protection is great after the fact, but why not keep the fraud from happening in the first place? What's more, get the theives caught. The transaction would be flagged much earlier than usual if the cashier asks for your ID, meaning they'd actually give the police something to go on. When you go to a cashier and ask them to describe a person who used so-and-so's card last month, they won't remember.
2007-03-24 22:32:11 · answer #2 · answered by calliope320 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Each store has a policy. I would be flattered in this day and age that someone took the time to actually ask me for it. In my business, I have a quick response time for a stolen credit card, they may not or have had some issues in the past. Visa is constantly changing the rules about things and merchants lose out on revenue because someone didn't do their job like ask for id or zip code.
2007-03-24 18:55:22 · answer #3 · answered by De 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
A merchant can ask you for ID for any purchase except cash (and even then if it's a regulated item). If you refuse, they can also refuse to honor your purchase and tell you to leave. Don't make life suck for the cashier. She is doing her job and has been instructed to ask for ID. Most merchants in my area do so and they accept cards other than VISA as well.
If you are insulted, the problem is with you, not with the merchant.
2007-03-24 19:00:03 · answer #4 · answered by CarbonDated 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Every store has a different policy. But yes, they have every right to ask to see your ID, and can refuse service if you don't show it. They didn't single you out; they're protecting you. If they ask everyone, they don't have to seem shady when they card a strung-out wino shaking with DTs trying to buy expensive jewelry. Yes, they can refuse service: I've done it. I used to work at a store where I was required to check the ID of everyone not paying with cash.
2007-03-24 19:12:08 · answer #5 · answered by Chotu B 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I don't know about the rules but I am asked to provide I.D most every time I use my Visa card. I have perfect credit history. I guess that I must look like a thief. lol.
2007-03-24 18:51:03 · answer #6 · answered by dean h 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is absolutely for your safety. I always thank clerks when they ask. It's quite easy for someone to steal your wallet and use your credit card. If the clerk asks for a photo ID she can compare the photo to you, then compare the name and signature on the card.
I always had my staff check ID when there was a purchaser that they'd never met before (most of our sales are repeat purchases). It protects the store but most of all it protects you!
2007-03-24 18:52:14 · answer #7 · answered by Ichiban 1 · 2⤊ 2⤋
I don't understand why you are so mad If you reach into your wallet for your card than your id should be in there to.People have Job to do and if checking id is one of them so what.How would you like for someone to criticize your job lighten up
2007-03-24 19:46:37 · answer #8 · answered by what did you say 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Each store has it's own policy, some of which require ID for credit card purchases. If you refuse to show ID, they have the right to refuse your sale. Their store, their policy.
2007-03-24 18:48:31 · answer #9 · answered by simplynxplicable@verizon.net 3 · 2⤊ 3⤋
She was just making sure for your protection. I hope someone steals your card and uses it at a place where they don't check ID's and then you will learn a valuable lesson.
2007-03-24 19:15:21 · answer #10 · answered by sport1fun 1 · 0⤊ 2⤋