What you need to do to set up a new ATM card

Bank of America sends new ATM cards in the mail, but they do not work until you set up them. You can set up your card in three ways: call the phone number on the back of the card, use the Bank of America mobile app, or visit an ATM and follow the on-screen prompts. Most people finish set up in under five minutes. Your card will not work at any ATM or point-of-sale terminal until this step is complete.

The set up process confirms that you received the card and that it belongs to you. Bank of America uses this as a security check — it prevents someone who intercepted your mail from using the card before you do.

Key Takeaways

  • You can set up your ATM card by phone, through the mobile app, or at any Bank of America ATM using your PIN.
  • set up happens when ready once you complete any of these methods — your card works right away.
  • You will need your card number and either your Social Security number or online banking password to set up by phone or app.
  • If you do not set up within a set period, Bank of America may deactivate the card and you will need to request a replacement.

Activating by phone

Call the number printed on the back of your new ATM card. You will reach Bank of America's automated set up line. Have your card in front of you and be ready to enter your card number when prompted. The system will ask you to verify your identity using either your Social Security number or the password you use for online banking.

The entire call takes about two minutes. Once you confirm your identity, the system will tell you your card is activated. You can hang up and use the card when ready. If you reach a live representative instead of the automated system, they can set up the card for you as well.

Activating through the mobile app

Open the Bank of America mobile app and sign in with your username and password. Look for the card management or cards section — the exact location varies depending on your app version, but it is usually under settings or account management. Find your new card in the list and select the option to set up it.

The app will ask you to confirm your card number and may ask you to verify your identity again. Once you confirm, set up is complete. This method works even if you are away from home or do not want to make a phone call.

Activating at an ATM

Insert your new card into any Bank of America ATM. The machine will recognize that the card has not been activated and will prompt you to complete set up on screen. You will need to enter your PIN — the same four-digit code you chose when you opened your account, or a new PIN if this is your first card.

After you enter your PIN, the ATM will set up the card. The machine will return your card and you can use it when ready. This method is useful if you are already at an ATM and want to set up on the spot.

What happens if you do not set up your card

Bank of America typically gives you 30 days from the date the card is mailed to set up it. If you do not set up within that window, the card will be automatically deactivated and you will not be able to use it. You will need to contact Bank of America to request a replacement card, which will take another 7 to 10 business days to arrive.

If you lose your card before activating it, call the number on the back when ready to report it lost. Bank of America will cancel that card and send you a replacement. Do not attempt to set up a card you no longer have.

Troubleshooting set up problems

If set up fails when you try by phone or app, the most common reason is that you entered your card number or identity information incorrectly. Try again, entering each digit carefully. If you are not sure of your Social Security number format or your online banking password, use the other verification method instead.

If you have tried multiple times and set up still fails, or if you never received your card in the mail, contact Bank of America directly. You can visit a branch in person, call the customer service number on your statement, or use the mobile app to send a find message. A representative can check whether the card was mailed, resend it if needed, or set up it for you over the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Bank of America blocks all transactions on unactivated cards. The card will be declined at ATMs and at checkout, even if you enter the correct PIN or card information. set up must happen first.

Do I need to set up a replacement card if my original card was already active?

Yes. Each physical card requires its own set up, even if you are replacing an old card on the same account. The new card has a different card number, so it needs to be activated separately.

What if I set up my card and then lose it?

Call the number on the back of your card or contact Bank of America when ready to report it lost. They will freeze the card so no one can use it, even if they have the card in hand. You can request a replacement, which will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.

How long does set up take?

set up is when ready. Once you complete the process by phone, app, or ATM, your card works right away. You do not need to wait for anything to process or update in the system.