It is legally required to sign the back of a credit card, but some people write “see identification” instead. Not signing can break the contract with the credit card company, and some merchants may require ID. Some credit cards now have photos for ID verification, but not all companies use this method.
Many people sign the back of a credit card as a matter of course. Others write the words “see identification” (identification), do not sign their cards, or both sign the card and write “see identification.” Some cards even come with an identification sticker attached to the front of the card, so merchants will remember to ask for identification to ensure they are entitled to use the card.
From a purely legal standpoint, you’re supposed to sign the back of a credit card. In fine print above or below the card, some variation of the following statement “Not valid unless signed” may appear. If you do not sign it, you may be prompted at the time of purchase to do so. Also, not signing can essentially break your contract with the credit card company, which requires you to sign your card when you receive it. Although this is rarely a forced part of your contract, there is a small chance that a credit card company may refuse to extend you credit if your card is not signed.
There are various opinions on whether or not you should sign the back of a credit card. Some companies now issue cards with photos of people on the front. This makes ID verification much easier as it looks or doesn’t look like the picture. Many people notice that not only are they never asked for ID, but merchants rarely ask to see credit card, see ID, or compare signatures on card and credit card receipts. This depends on each merchant. In areas where credit card fraud occurs regularly, restrictions are likely to be more stringent, and you may be required to provide identification and sign the card before a merchant will allow you to make a purchase.
Many people write see ID because their signature and photo on an ID card are better protection. It is true that signatures, even in permanent ink, can fade over time, and it is somewhat difficult to fit a good signature in the small space provided for one. Writing see ID also prevents a thief from having the opportunity to copy her signature. On a blank card, the thief can simply sign with his own hand, and then use that signature in the future.
However, legally, the credit card company requires you to sign the back of a credit card. If you don’t, and the card is stolen, you may not be entitled to the same protection, especially if the card is recovered and not signed. This new method of using photo identification on cards may be particularly helpful in solving the problem, but not all credit card companies have embraced it.
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