Ordinarily, the phone number will be a toll-free number, such as an 800 number. Depending upon your card issuer, you may only be able to call at certain times, such as during regular business hours. [2] X Research source Some card issuers only allow activation by phone. [3] X Research source You may be asked to call and activate your card from a phone number that the card issuer has on file. If you do not or cannot, you may have to speak with a representative from the card issuer to activate the card. This is a security measure to prevent credit card fraud. [4] X Research source

Your account number Your PIN number Your social Security number Your address Your date of birth

Remember to destroy your old card, such as by shredding it or cutting it up. [7] X Research source

The website may be hosted by your bank or credit card issuer, or it may be the website of a secure third-party service that it uses. [9] X Research source Avoid visiting credit card activation websites when using unsecure internet connections, such as public wi-fi in coffee shops. It is easier for thieves to access and steal sensitive information like credit card numbers over unsecure connections.

The number of the new card. [10] X Research source This is the sixteen-digit number found on the front of the card. Your social security number, or its last four digits. [11] X Research source Your account number with the bank or credit institution, if applicable. [12] X Research source The CVV number. [13] X Research source This is the three-digit number found on the back of cards issued by Visa and Mastercard. The zip code of the address associated with the card account. [14] X Research source Your date of birth[15] X Research source

Remember to destroy your old card, such as by shredding it or cutting it up. [16] X Research source

You may also be able to activate the card on your smartphone or other device via the institution’s mobile banking app, if it has one, and if your credit card is issued by your bank. Check the information mailed to you along with your card to see if this option is listed for you.

If you are not sure of the account login website, it should be listed in the information mailed to you along with the credit card. If you have an existing relationship with the credit card issuer, but do not yet have an online account, follow the directions provided on the website in order to create a username and password and set up your account. Avoid visiting credit card activation websites when using unsecure internet connections, such as public wi-fi in coffee shops. It is easier for thieves to access and steal sensitive information like credit card numbers over unsecure connections.

If you are unsure of where to click to activate your card, look for keywords like “activate my card” or “new card. ” The directions should also be provided on the materials mailed to you along with your new card. Enter any information requested, including the card number, expiration date, etc. If you get stuck, look for online assistance, or call your credit card issuer for help.

Remember to destroy your old card, such as by shredding it or cutting it up. [21] X Research source