Activating a credit card: What you should know

Whether you replaced a lost card or opened a new account, it’s important to know how to activate a credit card once it arrives in the mail.

These guidelines can 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 through 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.

• Activating your Capital One credit card online or through the Capital One Mobile app are typically the quickest, easiest options.

Activating a new credit card is simple. And there are usually several ways to do it. 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.

Look for an activation URL or QR code on your new card or the paperwork that came with it. If you see one, visit the website and enter the necessary information to activate your card. Keep in mind that you might have to create an online account if you don’t have one already.

Some credit card issuers let you activate your card using their mobile app. Start by downloading the app. Then, if you haven’t already done so, create an account and sign in. 

Once your card is activated, you might be able to use the app to manage your account. For example, with the Capital One Mobile app, you can:

• 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.

• See how many credit card rewards you’ve earned and review your rewards history. 

• Redeem your rewards.

Check for a phone number on the sticker on your card or the paperwork you were sent. When you call, follow the prompts to activate your card. You may need to verify your identity and enter the card number or three-digit security code during activation. So it’s a good idea to keep your card handy.

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 potential identity theft. 

• Check 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. 

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

• See whether account or credit monitoring is available. Some tools, like CreditWise from Capital One, are free and available to everyone. 

• Review your card’s benefits and rewards program to make sure you know how to get the most out of your new card.

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. 

Issuers, including Capital One, provide access to virtual cards that might let you use your credit line before the physical card arrives in the mail.

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 affect your credit scores. Activating your new card can also be an important part of preventing credit card fraud.

If you use the account that’s connected to the unactivated card—by shopping online with a virtual card number, for example—you’re still responsible for the balance. This is true even if you haven’t activated your physical card. And you still may be charged interest and fees.

The easiest way to activate your Capital One credit card is through Capital One’s mobile app or website. But first, you’ll need to set up online access. 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 process. So keep your new card nearby.

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

• Consider how you’ll use your new card. Is it a card for your everyday purchases? Big-ticket items? If you have a rewards card, how can you maximize your benefits? When you use your new credit card responsibly, it can help you build your credit history and improve your credit scores.

• Sign your credit card. Some issuers may require you to sign your credit card. If you see a blank signature panel on your card, sign your name there. You may need to remove the sticker on your card to find the signature panel. 

• Put safety first. If your new card is a replacement, be sure to destroy your old card immediately. Whether you’re opening a new account or replacing an old card, check out security features such as purchase notifications. 

• Create an online account. If you don’t already have one, create an online account with your card issuer. This gives you a convenient way to pay your bills, view your balance and redeem rewards. 

• 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. 

• Update other billing information. If you plan on using the card for recurring payments, such as 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 in stores without having to take out your card.

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.

If you’re new to credit or searching for your next credit card, Capital One can help: 

• See if you’re pre-approved for credit cards without harming your credit scores. 

• If you’re looking to build your credit with responsible use, explore cards for people with fair credit. 

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day with a cash back rewards card. 

• Monitor your credit report and score with CreditWise from Capital One. It’s free for everyone, and using it won’t hurt your credit.