How to activate a credit card
If you’ve had your credit card application accepted, the next step is to activate it. Our guide explains all you need to know
Key takeaways
Activating your new credit card is essential before you can start using it
For activation, you will need your card number and you may also be asked for your date of birth and other personal details to verify your identity
You can activate your card online, over the phone or via contactless payment
Generally, you have up to two months to activate your new credit card but this depends on the provider
Receiving a new credit card can feel like a step towards financial flexibility. But before you can start using it, there's an important step you must take: activation. This guide will walk you through the process of activating your new credit card, ensuring you can use it safely and securely.
How do I activate my credit card?
Activating your credit card is a simple process, but you'll need some information on hand. On the back of your new credit card, you’ll see the card number which you’ll need to activate the card.
Additionally, you'll be asked for your date of birth and potentially other personal details to verify your identity. This process can be done through various methods, including:
Online banking. Log into your existing account with the provider and look for the activation prompts. If you don't have an online account, you'll need to set one up, which usually involves providing some personal information and creating login credentials
Mobile banking app. Log in and follow the activation instructions. If it’s unclear, there is often an in-app chat facility that can direct you
Phone call to your provider. Have the card information to hand and an automated phone service process will take a few minutes to get it activated
At a cash machine. You can also activate your credit card at an ATM. Again just follow the details on screen. Note that while you might want to use the ATM to activate your card, withdrawing funds at the same time may incur fees and immediate interest charges
Contactless payments require an additional step. To use your credit card to make contactless payments you need to enter your PIN in a card reader or ATM. This initial step is necessary to activate the contactless feature on your card, ensuring secure transactions in stores.
Can I use a credit card before it’s activated?
No, you can’t use your credit card if you haven’t activated 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 the cardholder. Even though the credit card account is open, the physical card requires activation to initiate transactions.
How will I know if my credit card is activated?
Following the lender's instructions should lead to a swift and successful setup with confirmation that your card is activated.
However, if you're unsure whether your card is ready for use, you can always contact your provider or check your online banking.
You’ll also know if your credit card isn’t activated if it is declined when you try to use it.
How soon do I need to activate a new credit card?
Generally, you have up to two months to activate your new credit card, but the exact length of time you’ll have to activate your credit card will depend on the provider.
Remember to sign the back of your card as well, as this is an important security feature.
Personal Finance & Insurance Expert
Our expert says
“Activating a credit card is usually made straightforward by the provider, but if it’s the first card you’ve ever had, it’s understandable you’d have questions.
"Activating your card means you’re clear to start spending, but while researching here, it’s also worth gaining a more thorough understanding of how credit cards work. We’ve lots of guides to help and it will allow you to make the most of your credit card and also avoid any expensive pitfalls.”
Other useful guides
Understanding your credit card goes beyond just activation. There are several aspects of credit card use and protection that are essential to know. For further reading, consider these guides:
Compare credit cards with MoneySuperMarket
If you're in the market for a new credit card, MoneySuperMarket offers a comparison service that tailors to your personal details and intended use. You can compare deals by APR and rewards, and the service even shows the likelihood of acceptance without affecting your credit rating.
MoneySuperMarket is a credit broker – this means we’ll show you products offered by lenders. We never take a fee from customers for this broking service. Instead, we are usually paid a fee by the lenders – though the size of that payment doesn’t affect how we show products to customers.
Author
Tim Heming
Personal Finance Expert
Tim Heming is a journalist and editor who has written about personal finance for national newspapers and consumer websites for 15 years. Tim enjoys providing no-nonsense information to help consumers...
Reviewer
Jonathan Leggett
Former Senior Content Editor
With over 15 years of experience in online content and journalism, Jonathan is a former MoneySuperMarket’s editor at large and works across our Broadband, Mobiles, Energy and Money channels. Along...
