Address Verification System (AVS)

The Address Verification System (AVS) is a tool used by banks and merchants to confirm that the billing address provided by a customer matches the address on file with the credit card issuer. When a purchase is made online or over the phone, AVS checks the address details to help prevent fraud and unauthorized use of the card. If the addresses match, the transaction is more likely to be approved; if not, it may be flagged for further review. AVS enhances security by verifying that the customer is the legitimate cardholder.