Mastercard received an additional range of 2-series numbers (range 222100-272099) to add to the 5-series (range 510000-559999). Mastercard credit/debit cards are commonly known to begin with the number 5, with this change, that took effect in 2017, issuers are issuing Mastercard credit/debit cards that begin with the number 2.
All merchant POS terminals that accept Mastercard card numbers must be 2-series ready. Please contact your local POS systems technician or your POS systems help desk to make sure you can accept the new bin. Legacy POS systems, such as Ruby and Sapphire will require a technician visit.
Mastercard has begun conducting field tests and any merchants that cannot properly support and accept a 2-series card will be fined, until they are compliant. The fine will be based on the location’s transaction volume and can range anywhere from $100 - $2,500 but can escalate up to $20,000 per occurrence if the issue is not resolved. A transaction processed through use of one of the offered 2 series BIN card/account options will be accepted for the purpose of validating resolution of the acceptance issue. Clark Client Services can assist with the processing of this transaction.