Activating a credit card: What you should know

Whether you replaced a lost card or signed up for a new account, it’s important to know how to activate a credit card once it arrives in the mail. Luckily, activating a new card is usually a simple process you can do online or over the phone. And you can use these guidelines to help make credit card activation a breeze. 

What you’ll learn:

• Activating a new credit card is an easy process that you can do online, by phone or by using a mobile app.

• Be prepared to verify your identity and your new card information when activating a credit card.

• Activate your new card as soon as possible, especially if you reported your previous card lost or stolen.

• Spend some time looking into all your card’s benefits and features so you know how to get the most out of your new card.

Here are a few things to consider doing while you’re waiting for your new card to come in the mail:

• If you’re replacing a lost or stolen credit card, make sure to review all recent charges on the account. That way, you can spot any fraudulent charges and help protect yourself from identity theft. 

• Check to see whether your card comes with a mobile app. If it does, you may want to download the app and set up an account so you can manage your credit card account from anywhere. 

• Set up digital tools, like Eno, your Capital One assistant, to help with account management.¹          

• See what kind of account or credit monitoring is available. Some tools, like CreditWise from Capital One, are free and available to everyone.² You can also get a free copy of your credit report by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.

Activating a new credit card is simple. And there are usually several ways to do it. But regardless of the method you choose, be prepared to verify your identity and your new card information. 

Here are a few ways you may be able to activate a new credit card:

You can easily activate your credit card online. There will typically be an activation URL or QR code on your new card or the paperwork that came with your new card in the mail. Visit the website and enter the necessary information to activate your card. Keep in mind that you might have to create an online account with the issuer if you don’t have one already.

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. For example, with the Capital One Mobile app, you can:³ 

• Access your statements, stay on top of your spending and view enhanced transactions in real time. 

• Lock your card if it’s ever misplaced, lost or stolen.⁴ 

• See how many credit card rewards you’ve racked up and a rundown of your rewards history. Plus, you can easily redeem your rewards right within the app.

You may also activate your new card over the phone. To find the phone number, check the sticker on your card, the back of the card or the paperwork you were sent. Once you call it, follow the prompts to activate your card.

Just make sure you’re getting the phone number from an official source so you can avoid any phishing or vishing scams.

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 may have account features like virtual cards that let you access your credit line right away. So, you can use your credit card before the physical card arrives in the mail.⁵

Even if you don’t activate your credit card, your account will likely remain open. If it remains inactive for too long though, your credit card issuer may close the account. And that’s an inconvenience that can also impact your credit scores. 

Remember that activating your new card can be an important part of preventing credit card fraud.

The easiest way to activate your Capital One credit card is on the Capital One website or by using the Capital One Mobile app. But first, you’ll need to be enrolled in online banking. If you’re already enrolled, simply sign in to your account. 

You’ll need to enter the three-digit security code to complete the activation. So keep your new card close by.

Once you’re done activating your new credit card, you’re ready to use it as usual. But there are a few things to keep in mind after activating a card: 

• Use your card responsibly. When you use your new credit card responsibly, it can help you build your credit history and improve your credit scores.

• Put safety first. If your new card is a replacement, be sure to destroy your old card immediately. You won’t need it anymore. And whether you’re opening a new account or replacing an old card, check out what kinds of security features come with it, like purchase notifications. 

• Go automatic. Consider setting up automatic payments for your monthly credit card bills so you don’t have to worry about late or missed payments. And if you plan on using the card for any other recurring payments—like utility bills—make sure to update your card information with the merchants. 

• Get digital. Consider signing up for text alerts so you’re always on time and in the know about what’s going on with your account. You may also want to add your card to your digital wallets so you can check out without having to take out your card. 

• Consider how you’ll use your new card. Now that you’re ready to use your new card, be prepared for how you’ll use it. Is it a card for your everyday purchases? Or for big-ticket items only? If you have a rewards card, how can you maximize your benefits?

Credit card activation is a simple process with different options you can use. Once activated, be sure to explore your benefits and take full advantage of your new credit card. 

Ready for a new credit card? Compare credit cards from Capital One to find the right fit. You can even see if you’re pre-approved before applying without any harm to your credit scores.