set up your card before you use it for the first time
Bank of America requires you to set up a new credit card before you can make purchases or cash advances. set up is free and takes a few minutes. You have three ways to do it: online through your Bank of America account, by phone, or at an ATM.
The card will not work until you complete this step, even if you received it in the mail weeks ago. set up confirms that you received the physical card and that it is in your hands — not lost or intercepted.
Key Takeaways
- You must set up your credit card before making any purchases, and Bank of America offers three set up methods: online, by phone, or at an ATM.
- Online set up through your Bank of America account is the fastest option and requires your card number and the security code on the back.
- Phone set up uses the number on the back of your card and takes about five minutes with an automated system.
- You can set up at any Bank of America ATM by inserting your card and following the on-screen prompts.
- Once activated, your card is ready to use when ready for purchases, online payments, and cash withdrawals.
set up online through your Bank of America account
Log into your Bank of America account on the website or mobile app. If you do not have an online account yet, you can set one up using your Social Security number and other identifying information.
Once logged in, look for a section labeled "set up Card" or "Manage Cards." You will be asked to enter the 16-digit card number printed on the front of your card and the three-digit security code on the back. After you submit this information, the system will confirm that your card is now active.
This method is the fastest because you do not have to wait on hold or visit a location. Your card is ready to use when ready after confirmation appears on your screen.
set up by phone
Call the number printed on the back of your credit card. This line connects you to Bank of America's automated set up system, which works 24 hours a day.
The system will ask you to enter your card number using your phone's keypad. You will also need to verify your identity by providing your Social Security number or date of birth. Once the system confirms your information, your card is activated. The entire process usually takes about five minutes.
If you reach a live representative instead of the automated system, they can set up your card for you as well. This may happen if you call during business hours or if the automated system directs you to a representative.
set up at a Bank of America ATM
Find any Bank of America ATM and insert your new credit card into the slot. The ATM will recognize that the card has not been activated and will display an set up option on the screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts, which will ask you to enter your PIN (personal identification number) or verify your identity another way. Once you complete these steps, the ATM will confirm that your card is active. You can then withdraw cash or check your balance if you want to test the card when ready.
This method works even if you do not have online banking set up yet, as long as you know your PIN or can verify your identity at the machine.
What happens after set up
Your card is ready to use for purchases at stores, online, and over the phone as soon as set up is complete. You can also use it to withdraw cash at any ATM that accepts Visa or Mastercard, depending on which type of Bank of America credit card you have.
Charges will appear in your Bank of America account within one to three business days. You will receive a monthly statement showing all purchases and the amount you owe. If you set up online banking, you can check your balance and recent transactions anytime.
Keep your card in a safe place and do not share the card number or security code with anyone unless you are making a purchase from a business you trust. If your card is lost or stolen, call the number on the back of your card or your account statement to report it.
If your card will not set up
If you see an error message or the set up does not go through, the most common reason is that you entered the card number or security code incorrectly. Check that you typed all 16 digits of the card number and the three-digit code on the back. Try again with the correct information.
If the problem continues, contact Bank of America directly. Call the number on the back of your card or visit a Bank of America branch in person. A representative can check whether there is a problem with the card itself or with your account, and they can set up it for you over the phone.
In rare cases, a card may arrive damaged or with a manufacturing defect. If this happens, Bank of America will send you a replacement card at no cost. The representative you speak with can start this process and give you a timeline for when the new card will arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my card before I set up it?
No. Bank of America blocks all transactions on a new credit card until you complete set up. If you try to make a purchase before activating, the card will be declined.
How long does set up take?
set up is when ready with all three methods. Online and at an ATM, you see confirmation when ready. By phone, the automated system completes it in about five minutes. Your card is ready to use right away.
Do I need to set up my card in person at a branch?
No. You can set up online, by phone, or at an ATM without visiting a branch. In-person set up is only necessary if you have a problem with the other methods or if you need help from a representative.
What if I lose my card before activating it?
Call Bank of America when ready using the number on your account statement or by visiting a branch. Report the card as lost, and Bank of America will cancel it and send you a replacement. The replacement card will need to be activated the same way.
Can someone else set up my card for me?
No. Bank of America requires the cardholder to set up their own card for security reasons. You must be the one to enter the card number and verify your identity. This protects you if the card is intercepted in the mail.