When you get a new credit card, you often must activate it before you can use it. You’ll typically get your card in the mail along with activation instructions. There may be several ways to activate it, such as by phone, online or via the bank’s mobile app.
Activating a credit card is usually a quick and simple process. Here, we’ll discuss how to activate your credit card, including what happens afterward and how to handle hiccups along the way.
Common ways to activate a credit card
When you receive your credit card, it will typically come with activation instructions. Those are often listed in the letter that comes with your new card. Your new card may also have a sticker with activation instructions. You may have several options to activate your card, including online, by phone or in a mobile app.
The exact steps depend on the lender and the method you choose. You may have to provide personal information (like the last four digits of your Social Security number or date of birth) as well as your card’s information (like the security code).
Online
Typically, you’ll navigate to a specific URL and follow the instructions.
By phone
You may be able to call a phone number to activate your card. You may be prompted to enter certain information.
Through the bank’s mobile app
If your card issuer has a mobile app, you may be able to activate your credit card there by following the prompts.
