Use Same BIN for HSA & Debit Card Programs?

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Question:

Can a bank use the same BIN for their debit card program and their HSA program? We've been told you have to have a separate BIN number, but know of several banks that use the same BIN for both. We are looking into offering HSA's and want to be in compliance, but I cannot find the right answer.

Answer:

The answer is a function of the rules of the card association that you are affiliated with for the issuance of the cards. If they are Visa debit cards, you will have to look to Visa's operating rules and/or your Visa contract to determine if Visa requires the use of a separate BIN. The same would be true with respect to MasterCard debit cards.

First published on BankersOnline.com 2/02/09