RealPeopleGroup / Getty Images
You must activate it before using a new credit or exchange card.
Why is credit card activation so important? If the credit card issuer sends a credit card via mail, there is no guarantee that the credit card will reach the right person. For example, if you have recently moved, you can accidentally send your credit card to the previous address. Your credit card may be stolen before it reaches you. It’s a rare event, but not impossible.
Once you have completed the activation process, you will be able to verify your identity and confirm that your credit card has reached the legitimate owner. This quick and easy step will help protect both you and your credit card issuer Credit card fraudwhich could damage your credit score.
But how do you activate your credit card? Most credit card activation processes can be completed online or via the mobile app, but you can also activate your credit card on the phone.
Here’s what you need to know about Credit Card Activation:
Activate your card online, on the phone or mobile app
largely Major credit card companies You can easily activate your credit card. New credit cards may come with a welcome letter explaining the activation process. You may also have a sticker with your activation phone number and website address.
When you are ready to activate your credit card, you need to follow two main steps: Verify your identity and check card details.
In the first case, you may need to provide basic identification information such as your name, Social Security number, and date of birth. In the second case, you may need to provide basic credit card information such as your credit card number. Card Verification Value (CVV) Credit card pin.
The basic steps for each credit card activation process are as follows:
How to activate your credit card online
If you already have an account with the publisher, follow these steps:
- Log in to your credit card account. Even if the issuer doesn’t need it, you can streamline the process by logging in to your credit card account first.
- Follow the issuer’s activation instructions. By logging in to your account, you don’t have to go through a long identity verification process. This means you save time overall.
If you don’t already have an issuer account, follow these steps:
- Visit the activation website listed on the issuer’s letter or card sticker. Many credit card issuers offer activation websites that do not require you to log in to your account first.
- Follow the prompts on the Activation website. You may need to review specific identification details or card details before activating the card. Some credit card issuers also need to set up an online banking account at this time.
How to activate your credit card in the mobile app
- Download the mobile app to your phone. If you already have a mobile app, you will be prompted to activate the card. If you don’t have it, you may be able to scan the QR code with the sticker on the card or the issuer’s letter to encourage you to download it.
- Check your card information via the app. Some credit card mobile apps allow you to use your phone’s camera to validate and activate your cards, saving you the issue of manually entering your credit card information. Others need to enter a code or verify their identity in some way.
How to activate a credit card on the phone
- Calls the number of the activation sticker attached to the card. If the credit card issuer does not provide a separate activation phone number, call the number on the back of the card.
- Be prepared to provide basic information that validates both your identity and the credit card you received. This may include Social Security Numbers, Card CVV, etc.
Tips for activating credit cards by issuer
While most credit card issuers can activate their cards through almost the same process, each issuer still has its own rules they want to follow.
The following issuer-specific information will help you understand how to activate your card:
After activating the card
I want to start after activating a new credit card I use my credit card responsibly. Here are some tips to get the most out of your new credit line:
- Decide how to purchase with a credit card without becoming a credit card debt. Just making a purchase that you can fully repay will save you money on interest fees, as well as improving your credit utilization and credit score.
- Understand the credit card reward structure. What purchases earn the most cashback, points, or miles? Knowing how to make the most of your credit card rewards can save you a lot of money over time, whether you’re earning or redeeming them.
- Take advantage of the card’s welcome bonus. Earning a welcome bonus, also known as a sign-up bonus, is one of the best ways to collect valuable credit card rewards. You’ll want to budget your spending to meet your welcome bonus requirements without getting into debt.
- Use your credit card grace period to avoid paying interest. If you pay your statement balance in full before the Grace period expires, the credit card issuer may not charge interest on new purchases. However, if you miss a payment or start holding a balance on your card, the grace period will disappear and the card issuer will start charging interest on both your current balance and new purchases.
- Payment will be made on time every month. Even if you have to post your balance on a new credit card, you can still maintain a good credit by paying on time each month and paying back your balance as soon as possible. You should also avoid missing payments and maximizing your credit card. Both can cause serious damage to your credit score.
Conclusion
Credit card activation is quick and easy. Once you know how to activate your credit card, you can complete the process in just a few minutes. If you have any concerns or issues with the activation process, then you can always Please contact the credit card issuer Customer Service Department. Most credit card issuers have multiple customer service options, including phone, email, and chat options, but be careful when providing identification information to representatives. If you are in doubt, call the number on the back of your card.
By activating you New credit card As soon as you receive it, your card issuer knows that you have a card in your account that will help prevent credit card fraud.
Once you activate your new card, use your credit card responsibly to maintain proper credit. Credit card rewards Don’t avoid credit card debt.
FAQs about Credit Card Active
Bank of America content for this post was last updated on April 24, 2025.
