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To activate a credit card, call the number on the back of the card or go to the website listed on the activation sticker attached to the card. Credit card activation typically requires the credit card number, the security code (CVV), or both.
The exact steps required to activate a credit card depend on the card issuer, so it’s best to follow the instructions from the sticker attached on your card. If you’ve lost your sticker – or you’re just wondering – here’s a quick reference guide to credit card activation with some of the biggest card issuers.
Here’s how to activate credit cards from major issuers:
Issuer | Activation Phone Number | Activate Online? | Activate via Mobile App? |
American Express | |||
Bank of America | |||
Barclays | No | ||
Capital One | Phone number on the back of your credit card | ||
Chase | No | ||
Citibank | Phone number on the back of your credit card | ||
Discover | Yes | Yes | |
U.S. Bank | Phone number on the back of your credit card | ||
Wells Fargo | Phone number from the sticker attached on your card. |
It’s important to remember that some credit card issuers will require your Social Security number or other information to verify your identity when you activate your card. Once you’ve activated your credit card, you can use it right away.

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