Interac in a flash
Now you can tap and pay for your smaller purchases using your credit union debit card. Interac Flash® is the newest contactless payment method; it’s fast, convenient and secure – whether you’re looking for a quick coffee before heading to work, or lunch on the run.

How it works
• Look for the Interac Flash® symbol when making debit purchases.
• Hold the card no farther than 4 cm from the front of the terminal.
• Listen for the beep or approval message that indicates the transaction is complete.
• The purchase amount will be debited from your credit union account.
• That’s it!

Benefits for you
• It’s quick, easy, and completely secure.
• Eliminates the need to carry cash and change for small purchases.
• No need to enter in PINs for smaller purchases under $100.
• Backed by Interac’s Zero Liability Policy.

Talk to us today about how Interac Flash® can change the way you pay.

Frequently asked questions

What is Interac Flash®?
Interac Flash® is a contactless payment technology that lets you pay for purchases under $100 by simply holding your Interac Flash® enabled credit union debit card up to an Interac Flash® enabled debit machine.

Is Interac Flash® secure?
Yes, Interac Flash® uses secure chip processing technology that provides all the benefits of Interac® Debit, including protection against skimming, counterfeiting, replay fraud, and electronic pickpocketing. Interac Flash® uses the latest chip technology, has unique security that protects every transaction, and comes backed by Interac’s Zero Liability Policy.

Why are there spending limits?
Spending limits are set on Interac Flash® to protect you. A single transaction cannot exceed $100, and no more than $200 can be spent in consecutive Interac Flash® transactions. When you reach one of these limits, you’ll be prompted to insert your debit card and enter your PIN to confirm you are the legitimate cardholder. Once you have entered your PIN, your Interac Flash® limits are reset.

How do I use it?
To pay using Interac Flash®, you follow these 4 easy steps:
1. Look for the Interac Flash® symbol when making debit purchases
2. Hold the card no farther than 4 cm from the front of the terminal.
3. Listen for the beep or approval message that indicates the transaction is complete
4. The purchase amount will be debited from your credit union account

How do I activate my new Interac Flash® debit card?
When you receive your new Interac Flash® credit union debit card, it will have a new number on the front but will still contain your existing PIN. To activate your new card, all you have to do is enter your existing PIN in a credit union branch or at a POS device the first time you use it. Once this is done, your new card is activated and so is Interac Flash®!

Which one of my accounts will be debited?
Your purchases will be debited from the savings or chequing account you have associated with your credit union debit card. The default account debited is your chequing account. If you don’t have a chequing account, purchases will be debited from your savings account.

Are there fees for using Interac Flash®?
Interac Flash® transactions are processed the same way as your regular credit union debit card transactions. There are no surcharges applied to Interac Flash®.

How can I tell if Interac Flash® is an accepted form of payment?
Interac Flash® enabled debit cards and debit machines will display this symbol: 
For a list of merchants who accept Interac Flash®, visit: http://www.interac.ca/en/interac-flash-consumer.html
 
What if I don’t want to use Interac Flash®?
Interac Flash® is an optional feature and intended to offer you more convenience. You can choose not to use it and continue using your credit union debit card with chip and PIN access.

How do I keep track of purchases made using Interac Flash®? Will I be able to get receipts?
Your Interac Flash® debit card functions just as your previous debit card did. Transactions will be itemized on your account statement and appear under your online or mobile banking account activity with the rest of your transactions. If you want a receipt, you can request one from the business where you made the purchase.

Will my Interac Flash® debit card work with terminals that are not Interac Flash® enabled?
Yes. Your card will work, but you’ll have to insert your card for the chip-reader and enter your PIN.

Can I accidentally pay for something if I stand or hold my debit card too close to a terminal?
Two things would have to happen at the same time for a transaction to go through while your card is still in your wallet. First, the machine would have to be ready to receive a debit transaction. Second, your card would have to get within 4 cm of the machine. It is good to be aware of where your card is when entering line ups for purchases, but making a purchase without being aware is virtually impossible.

Can the information on my card be stolen, even if my debit card is in my purse or wallet?
No. There is security built into the chip in your credit union debit card that protects you. The chip uses processing power and cryptography that prevents fraudulent activity like skimming and counterfeiting.

What if someone steals my debit card?
We offer the Lock'N'Block™ feature which allows you to lock or block your credit union debit card via MemberDirect online banking, anywhere, anytime. See more here.
Also, Interac Flash® is backed by Interac’s Zero Liability Policy to protect you form unauthorized use of your card. If your card is stolen, contact your credit union immediately to report it. We’ll talk you through the process from start to finish.