If you’ve ever wondered about the 4246 credit card type, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a consumer, business owner, payment processor, or cybersecurity professional, understanding what a credit card starting with 4246 represents can help with card verification, fraud prevention, or simply satisfying your curiosity. The 4246 credit card type is part of the Visa network, often issued by major U.S. banks. In this guide, we’ll break down what the 4246 BIN number means, who issues these cards, their benefits, and how to identify them. Let’s dive into the world of credit card prefixes and make it simple!
What Is a 4246 Credit Card Type?
Understanding BINs (Bank Identification Numbers)
Every credit card has a unique number, and the first six digits are called the Bank Identification Number (BIN) or Issuer Identification Number (IIN). This number acts like a fingerprint for the card, revealing key details like the card network (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and the issuing bank. The 4246 BIN number is a specific code that helps identify the card’s origin and type. Knowing the BIN is useful for merchants, payment processors, and consumers who want to verify a card’s legitimacy or understand its features.
4246 Is a Visa Credit Card Prefix
If a card number starts with the digit “4,” it’s part of the Visa network. The 4246 credit card type is no exception. All cards beginning with 4246 belong to Visa, one of the most widely accepted payment networks globally. The first six digits, including 4246, form the BIN, which confirms the card is issued by a financial institution under Visa’s network. This prefix doesn’t tell you the exact bank or card product right away, but it’s a starting point for identifying the card issuer and type.
Who Issues 4246 Credit Cards?
The 4246 credit card type is commonly issued by major U.S. banks. Some of the most well-known institutions that use the 4246 BIN number include:
- Chase Bank: Known for popular cards like the Chase Freedom® and Chase Sapphire® series.
- U.S. Bank: Offers a range of personal and business Visa cards.
- PNC Bank: Issues cards like the PNC Visa® Core Card for consumers and businesses.
- Wells Fargo: Provides cards such as the Wells Fargo Reflect® Visa Card.
BINs like 4246 can be reused across different card products, including personal credit cards, business cards, or even student cards. This means a 4246 card could be a rewards card, a balance transfer card, or a basic credit card, depending on the issuer and product.
Benefits of 4246 Visa Credit Cards
Visa Features to Expect
Since the 4246 credit card type is part of the Visa network, you can expect a range of benefits that come with most Visa cards. These features make Visa cards popular for everyday purchases, travel, and online shopping. Here’s what you might get:
- Global Acceptance: Visa cards are accepted at millions of locations worldwide, making them ideal for travel or international purchases.
- Zero Liability for Fraud: Visa’s Zero Liability Policy protects you from unauthorized charges, so you’re not responsible for fraudulent transactions.
- Contactless and Chip-Enabled Payments: Most 4246 Visa cards come with EMV chip technology and contactless payment options for secure, fast transactions.
- Purchase and Travel Protection: Depending on the specific card, you may get benefits like extended warranty protection, purchase protection, or travel insurance (terms vary by card).
These features make 4246 Visa cards versatile and secure for a wide range of users.
Example Cards That May Start with 4246
Here are some example Visa cards that may use the 4246 BIN number, along with their features and why they might use this prefix.
Chase Freedom® Visa
- Issuing Bank: Chase Bank
- Rewards or Cashback: Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly categories (up to $1,500 in purchases, after activation) and 1% on all other purchases.
- Intro APR or Signup Bonus: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, plus a $200 bonus after spending $500 in the first three months.
- Why It Uses 4246: Chase issues many Visa cards under the 4246 BIN for its popular rewards programs, as this prefix is part of their allocated Visa numbers.
PNC Visa® Core Card
- Issuing Bank: PNC Bank
- Rewards or Cashback: No rewards program, but designed for simplicity with low interest rates for qualifying cardholders.
- Intro APR or Signup Bonus: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months.
- Why It Uses 4246: PNC uses the 4246 prefix for its basic Visa cards aimed at consumers who want straightforward credit without complex rewards.
Wells Fargo Reflect® Visa Card
- Issuing Bank: Wells Fargo
- Rewards or Cashback: No rewards, but focused on long-term savings with an extended intro APR.
- Intro APR or Signup Bonus: 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 21 months (with a 3% balance transfer fee).
- Why It Uses 4246: Wells Fargo assigns the 4246 BIN to select Visa cards, especially those focused on balance transfers and low interest.
These examples show the variety of cards that might start with 4246, from rewards-focused to low-interest options.
How to Identify a Credit Card by Number (BIN Lookup)
If you’re trying to identify a card by number, a BIN lookup is the way to go. Here’s how it works:
- First 6 Digits = BIN/IIN: The first six digits of any credit card, like 4246xx, form the BIN or IIN, which identifies the card network and issuer.
- BIN Reveals Network and Bank: For 4246, the BIN indicates it’s a Visa card issued in the U.S. by banks like Chase, U.S. Bank, PNC, or Wells Fargo.
- Use Trusted BIN Lookup Tools: Websites like binlist.net or freebinchecker.com can confirm the card network and issuer. Always use reputable tools to avoid scams.
- 4246 = Visa, U.S.-Issued: The 4246 credit card type is always a Visa card issued in the United States.
- Verify with the Bank: For the most accurate details, contact the issuing bank directly, as BINs can be reused across multiple card products.
Using a BIN lookup tool is especially helpful for merchants or cybersecurity professionals checking for fraud or verifying transactions.
FAQs About the 4246 Credit Card Type
Is 4246 always a Visa card?
Yes, the 4246 credit card type is always part of the Visa network. All cards starting with the digit “4” are Visa cards, and 4246 is a specific BIN used by Visa issuers in the U.S.
Can 4246 cards be debit or credit?
While 4246 is most commonly associated with Visa credit cards, it’s possible for the BIN to be used for Visa debit cards issued by the same banks. Always check with the issuer to confirm the card type.
How do I know which bank issued a 4246 card?
To identify the exact bank, use a trusted BIN lookup tool or check the card’s branding (e.g., Chase, Wells Fargo). For precise details, contact the card issuer directly using the customer service number on the card.
Conclusion
The 4246 credit card type is a Visa card, typically issued by major U.S. banks like Chase, U.S. Bank, PNC, or Wells Fargo. Understanding the 4246 BIN number helps consumers, merchants, and cybersecurity professionals verify card details, prevent fraud, and ensure secure transactions. Whether you’re using a 4246 Visa card for rewards, balance transfers, or everyday purchases, you can enjoy benefits like global acceptance, fraud protection, and contactless payments. For specific details about a card starting with 4246, use a trusted BIN lookup tool or contact the issuing bank. Stay informed, and keep your transactions safe!
