How to Activate a Credit Card

You can typically activate a credit card in just a few minutes online, by phone, or using your issuer's mobile app. Most cards come with a sticker that specifies exactly what you need to do to begin using your card.

Activating your card might seem like an unnecessary hassle, but it's an important part of protecting your account from fraud. It also assures the card issuer that you actually received the card you were sent.

This article explains the different methods you can use to activate your card, so you can make the easiest choice and get the task done.

How to activate a credit card

Card issuers want to make it as easy as possible for you to activate your card so you can begin using it. You have a few options – if you forget them, just check your card's sticker.

Before activating your card, ensure you have all the information you need. Issuers typically ask for:

• Your 15- or 16-digit credit card number
• The card's expiration date
• The 3-digit CVV number on the back of the Visa or Mastercard
• The 4-digit CVV number on the front of the Amex card
• Your address and date of birth

Why do you need to activate your credit card?

The first reason you need to activate a credit card before using it is that it's a clear indication that you've received your new credit card.

If you've ever received emails from your issuer urging you to activate a card you never received, it is because a new card was mailed but never reached you. This can be a heads-up for you and your card issuer.

Activating your card also confirms that you're actually the one using your account. If someone managed to steal your new card, they shouldn't have the necessary personal information to activate it, so it's a valuable anti-theft tool.

Activation also signals that the account is open and ready to use. If you haven't completed verification, merchants generally can't accept your credit card when you try to use it.

How to activate a credit card online

Most issuers let you activate a credit card online, using the website listed on the sticker attached to your card. If it's not on a sticker, it'll be included somewhere within your welcome package.

If you already bank with the issuer, you may not even need to look for a separate activation page. Just log in to your account, find your new card, and follow the prompts to get it up and running.

If you haven't set up an online account with the financial institution, you can usually activate the card online anyway. You'll have to enter the credit card number, expiration date, and security code, then verify your personal details.

How to activate your credit card over the phone

Almost all issuers will let you activate your card over the phone, but the process can vary by issuer.

Some will just run you through an automated system, where you punch in details on your phone's keypad. If everything checks out, your card will be activated.

Others may require you to talk to someone who will take your info and verify your identity before activating your credit card.

How to activate a credit card via mobile app

If you use your bank's mobile app, you can activate a new card with just a few taps:

• Log in
• Find your credit card in your account
• Tap the activation link, button, or banner
• Follow the on-screen instructions

Activating through a credit card issuer

Now that you know how to activate a card, check out the specifics based on your card issuer:

How to activate an American Express credit card

Amex offers a few ways to activate your card. The best option is to go online. You can quickly log in and select the card you want to activate, or visit the activation site and follow the prompts.

If you prefer to use the Amex mobile app, log in and select "Activate Card and Online Account." Enter your card details, and you're all set.

If you prefer to stay offline, you can call Amex at 1-800-869-3016 to get your new card activated.

How to activate a BMO credit card

BMO has a few ways to activate your card online. BMO has this page to get your card activated. You can also use their mobile app to get it set up.

If you want to call, BMO has several contact numbers depending on your card:.

• BMO Mastercard: 1-800-263-2263
• BMO eclipse Visa Infinite: 1-833-256-7136
• BMO Infinite Privilege cards: 1-833-256-7137

How to activate a CIBC credit card

CIBC lets you activate your card online through a browser or mobile banking app. But first, you have to create an online account. Once that's done, you can activate your card.

You can also call CIBC at 1-800-465-4653, or 1-866-346-2999 for the CIBC Costco Mastercard.

How to activate a TD credit card

You can activate your TD credit card through the TD mobile app or EasyWeb online banking. Sign in, select your credit card account, and click the activation link. Follow the prompts.

You can also call TD at 1-877-491-6062 to activate your card by phone.

If TD has issued you a replacement card, you may be able to activate it by making an in-store purchase with your PIN. TD allows this with Access Cards and may offer it for some credit cards, too. If it's available, your card's sticker will let you know.

How to activate an RBC credit card

For RBC credit cards, you can visit this page to activate your card – but you'll need to have access to online banking with RBC. Just log in to your account and follow the prompts.

You can also call 1-877-900-5900 to get your card activated.

How to activate a Scotiabank credit card

Visit this site to activate your Scotiabank credit card. You'll be asked whether or not you have access to online banking through Scotiabank. If you already have access to Scotiabank online banking, you'll sign in like normal.

Like with TD, you may be able to activate your card by making a transaction in person using your PIN. Just check the sticker on your card to confirm.

You can also choose to call 1-800-806-8600 to activate your Scotiabank credit card.

There's one exception to all this. If you have a Scotiabank Mastercard, you have to call 1-866-583-6289 to get your card activated.

How to activate an MBNA credit card

MBNA may be owned by TD, but you can still activate your card online. If you're a new customer, you can create your online account and activate your card here.

You can also contact customer service at 1-888-876-6262 to get your card set up.

FAQ

How do you activate a credit card?

To activate your new credit card, call the phone number listed on it, log in to your online account, or use your credit card issuer's mobile app. Some issuers also let you activate by making a purchase with your PIN – you can check the sticker on your card to see if you're eligible.

Is a credit card automatically activated?

Getting a new credit card in the mail doesn't mean it's ready to use. You'll need to activate it first – usually online, by phone, or through your issuer's mobile app. Once you verify your details, your card should be good to go.

How do I activate my credit card online?

To activate your card online, log in to your account on the credit card issuer's website or head to the credit card's online activation form. Enter the card number, expiration date, CVV, and verify your personal details to activate the card.

What is the process with Scotiabank to activate a credit card?

Activating your Scotiabank card depends on which card you have. If you have a Scotiabank Visa or American Express, you can activate it online or call Scotiabank at 1-800-806-8600. If you have a Scotiabank Mastercard, you'll need to call 1-866-583-6289.

How do I activate a TD credit card?

To activate a TD credit card, open the TD mobile app, select your card, and tap "Activate Now." Alternatively, you can call 1-877-491-6062 and TD will guide you through the prompts. Both options take just a few minutes to complete.