A payment system that uses replacement account identifiers is disclosed. An encrypted primary account number (PAN) may be received by a secure computer from a data entry device. The encrypted PAN may be decrypted by the secure computer and the secure computer may transmit a zero, nominal or no dollar authorization request to an issuer. Using the zero, nominal or no dollar authorization request, the issuer may verify the account. If the account is verified, then a replacement account identifier can be issued at a later time. The replacement account identifier may be used instead of the actual PAN to conduct payment transactions.