Float virtual cards are ideal for managing online purchases, subscriptions, and even in-person payments through digital wallets. This FAQ answers common questions about how and where you can use virtual cards, spending limits, PIN requirements, and card reassignment. Whether you're using a CAD or USD card, this guide will help you get the most out of your virtual card.
For common questions regarding physical Float cards, see: Physical Cards FAQ.
How do I create a virtual card in Float?
Only Administrators in Float can create virtual cards. Other user roles in Float (i.e. Spender, Manager etc) will need to submit a spend request for a new card.
For the process to request a new Float card, see: Spend Requests for New Cards or Limits.
Can I use a virtual card to pay in person?
Technically, yes!
The easiest way to do this is to add your virtual card to a mobile wallet and tap-to-pay (where accepted).
If the machine/store allows you to input the specific parameters that the virtual card has (full number, expiry, CVC), then it should work. However, this largely depends on the physical machine used by the store. Usually, you can ask the person working to take the transaction as if it was an over the phone transaction where they enter the numbers manually.
Typically, virtual cards are used for online purchases/subscriptions and physical cards are used for in store/person purchases.
Please Note: Some US merchants will require a PIN for virtual card transactions made in person. For steps on how to set a PIN for your Virtual USD Card, see: Why was I prompted to enter a PIN for my Virtual USD Card transaction?
Can I use my virtual card for recurring subscriptions?
Yes. Virtual cards are ideal for recurring expenses like subscriptions. You can even create individual cards for specific subscriptions for better expense tracking.
Can I use the same virtual card for all my transactions?
Yes, but this depends on the spending policies implemented by your business. For tracking purposes, the best practice is to use a virtual Float card per vendor or purpose. This gives you better visibility and control—especially if a vendor experiences fraud or needs to be cancelled.
Note: If you have questions regarding what your business spending policies are, we recommend reaching out to a Float Administrator for your business for more information.
What is the tap limit when using my virtual card in person?
Virtual CAD cards added to a Digital Wallet are limited to CAD $250 per transaction. This regards transactions made in both Canada and abroad.
For USD cards added to a Digital Wallet , there is no specific tap limit, transactions over USD $100 made in the US will require a merchant signature at checkout.
Can a virtual card be reassigned to another user in Float?
Yes, virtual Float cards can be reassigned to another user by an Administrator.
See: Re-assigning Float cards to different users
Can I assign a PIN to my virtual card?
Virtual CAD cards do not have the ability to assign a PIN for.
Note: Some US merchants will require a PIN for virtual card transactions made in person. For steps on how to set a PIN for your Virtual USD Card, see: Why was I prompted to enter a PIN for my Virtual USD Card transaction?
Can I change the in-app name of my virtual card?
Only Administrators have the ability to change the name of a card in Float. If you would like the name of your virtual card updated, you will need to reach out to a Float administrator for your company.
Can receipts be sent via text to Float for transactions made on my virtual card?
SMS notifications for text receipt capture are enabled by default for physical cards only. If you need SMS notifications for virtual cards, please have an Administrator for your company reach out to support@floatfinancial.com for further information.
My virtual card was declined—what should I do?
Check the following:
- The card hasn’t been paused or cancelled
- Confirm with the merchant that they accept virtual cards as a payment method
- Confirm the transaction amount doesn’t exceed the card’s limit
- The billing information matches what’s on file in Float
For more information on card declines, see: Card Declines: Why They Happen and How to Fix Them
If the issue continues, please reach out to support@floatfinancial.com.
Can a card be assigned to more than one spender at a time?
No, each card can only be assigned to a single Spender. Virtual cards can be reassigned from one spender to another, but cannot simultaneously belong to more than one Spender.