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Is billing address the same as shipping address?

When you order a product online, the shipping address may not be the same as your billing address.

You may use your credit card for purchases sent directly to others, or to a secondary residence. But your credit card issuer will use your billing address as its default address for you, unless you request a preferred address.

The billing address ZIP code and other details can be used to help verify your identity when using the credit card in question, through using an Address Verification System (AVS).

An AVS compares your card’s billing address to the address you (or someone with your card’s information) has filled in for an online transaction. If the two addresses don’t match, the system should notify the vendor through a code.

This helps prevent identity theft.

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Billing address adds security

Theoretically, if someone steals your credit card information and tries to use it online to buy, say, a smart watch, the person will have to fill in a billing address. If it doesn’t match the address your credit card company has on file, the transaction should be flagged through AVS.

This extra security measure helps ensure that if your credit card information is ever stolen, your issuer will be able to track illegitimate purchases easily and efficiently. It may even lead the company directly to your fraudster.

More: Privacy helps to secure your online purchases and billing address information. Sign up today and protect your privacy.

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The content provided on MoneyWise is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.