How to activate your new credit card | Chase (2024)

FAQs

How can a new credit card get activated? ›

How do I activate a new credit card? To activate your new credit card you'll need the credit card number and your date of birth. You can either activate your card via online banking, mobile banking, phoning the card provider directly or in person at the nearest branch of your bank.

For activating the credit card, you have to enter the PIN for the credit card. The PIN will be sent to you by the bank at the address you registered with the bank within seven days of getting the card. You can also generate a PIN via net banking or mobile banking.

Call customer service: You can call the phone number on the back of your credit card to reach customer service. You'll be able to check the status of your card and, if it is deactivated, you can ask about reactivation. Make a purchase: Another way to check if a card is active is to try and use it to make a purchase.

Before you can use a new credit card, you'll have to activate it. This usually cannot be done until you receive the card in the mail, unless you're using a virtual card. Once delivered, you'll want to open the envelope with your new credit card and follow the included instructions to activate it.

This is a common question among new cardholders. The answer is straightforward: a credit card must be activated before use as a security measure. This ensures the person using the card is indeed the cardholder. Even though the credit card account is open, the physical card requires activation to initiate transactions.

It is not the same for all credit cards. Thus, it is very important that you follow the card-specific instructions that you receive when you get your credit card. Some banks may require you to activate the card online, and some might require you to visit an ATM and get the card activated by swiping it.

In most cases, once you activate your new credit card you can use it right away. You'll be able to use the card if the account is open and the card hasn't expired. If you activate the card but have a problem using it, call the number on the back of the card.

Use a mobile app

Some credit card issuers allow you to activate your card using their mobile app. Start by downloading the app to your device. Then, if you haven't already done so, create an account and sign in. In addition to activating your card, you can also use your issuer's mobile app to help manage your account.

Call your bank's automated card activation system or use the website or mobile app to activate your debit card. You can also deposit or withdraw cash at an ATM or make a purchase with your new card using the PIN for your existing debit card. Or, stop in at your bank and ask a teller to activate your card.

What happens if new credit card is not activated? ›

What happens if I don't activate my credit card? If you don't activate your credit card, it remains inactive and cannot be used for any transactions.

Most new credit cards are sent in a de-activated state to the mailing address you provided on your application. This is to prevent unauthorized use in case the card is lost or stolen before you receive it. Instructions on how to activate the card should be enclosed. If you don't see them, call your credit card company.

How long after activating a credit card can I use it? You can typically begin using your credit card immediately after verifying receipt or activating the card.

Your account is considered open from the date you're approved for the card. If you don't activate your card your account will still be open, you just won't be able to use it.

What happens if you don't activate a credit card. Your account is considered open from the date you're approved for the card. If you don't activate your card your account will still be open, you just won't be able to use it.

You should be able to use your new credit card immediately after activating it. And as long as your account is open and remains in good standing, you can use it as often and as long as you need.

Some credit card issuers let you use an instant approval credit card right away, while others require that you wait to receive the physical credit card. Once you activate your card, you can start using it and earning rewards.