PIN Debit Processing Versus Credit Card Processing

You can process Visa or Mastercard branded debit cards through the credit card network the same way that you process credit cards, by using the credit card authorization and capture services. The transactions are considered credit card transactions.

PIN debit transactions and credit card transactions are processed differently:

For a PIN debit transaction, you need to request only the PIN debit purchase service. You do not need to request a capture because the PIN debit purchase service authorizes the transaction and moves the money.

For a credit card transaction, you receive an authorization code indicating an approval. For a PIN debit transaction, you do not necessarily receive an authorization code. Some processors provide an authorization code, but the code is not required for you to receive your money. For a PIN debit transaction, you cannot verbally obtain an authorization code from the processor or bank.