Call the number on the back of your card or use the BofA mobile app

Bank of America sends you a credit card that is not ready to use until you activate it. You have two main ways to do this: call the activation line printed on the back of your card, or open the Bank of America mobile app and follow the activation prompt. Both routes take about five minutes and happen instantly—your card works as soon as the activation is complete.

The phone number on the back of your card connects you to an automated system. You will need your card number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The app method is faster if you already have BofA online banking set up, because it recognizes you automatically. If you do not have an online account yet, you can set one up during the activation process.

Some cards arrive with a temporary PIN printed on a separate piece of paper. If yours did, you may be asked to confirm or change this PIN during activation. Write down whatever PIN you choose—you will need it for ATM withdrawals and some in-person transactions.

Key Takeaways

  • Activation happens by phone (the number is on your card) or through the Bank of America app, and takes effect immediately.
  • You will need your card number, Social Security number, and date of birth to activate by phone.
  • If your card came with a temporary PIN, you can confirm it or create a new one during activation.
  • Your card will not work for purchases, online payments, or cash advances until activation is complete.
  • If you lose or damage your card before activating it, contact Bank of America customer service to request a replacement.

Activation by phone: step by step

Call the number printed on the back of your card. An automated system will ask you to enter your card number using your phone keypad. Have your card in front of you so you can read the 16-digit number accurately.

Next, the system will ask for your Social Security number and date of birth to verify your identity. Enter these exactly as they appear in your Bank of America records. If the system does not recognize your information, hang up and call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 to activate manually with a representative.

Once verified, the system will confirm your card is now active. Some systems offer the option to set up a PIN or change a temporary one at this point. If you skip this step, you can set or change your PIN later through the app or at an ATM.

Activation through the Bank of America app

Open the Bank of America mobile app and sign in with your username and password. If you do not have an account yet, select "Enroll" and follow the steps to create one. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid email address.

Once signed in, the app will usually show a prompt to activate your new card. Tap it and confirm your card details. The system will verify your identity and activate the card within seconds. If you do not see a prompt, go to the "Cards" or "Accounts" section, find your new card, and look for an "Activate" button.

After activation, you can set a PIN through the app by going to "Card Settings" or "Security Settings." This PIN is optional for online purchases and phone orders, but required for ATM withdrawals and some in-store transactions.

What happens if you do not activate your card

An inactive card will be declined at checkout, at the ATM, and for online purchases. Merchants will not know why—the transaction simply fails. You cannot make a payment on the card or use it for anything until activation is complete.

Bank of America does not charge a fee for activation, and there is no deadline to activate. However, the longer you wait, the longer you cannot use the card. If your card arrives and you do not plan to use it, you can leave it inactive without penalty.

Troubleshooting activation problems

If the automated phone system rejects your information, the most common reason is a mismatch between what you entered and what Bank of America has on file. Hang up and call customer service at 1-800-432-1000 to speak with a representative. They can activate your card manually and correct any information errors.

If the app shows an error during activation, try signing out and signing back in. If the problem persists, use the phone method instead. Both routes lead to the same result—a fully active card.

If you never received your card in the mail, or if it arrived damaged, contact Bank of America customer service. They can confirm whether the card was mailed and request a replacement if needed. A replacement card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Using your card after activation

Once activated, your card works immediately for in-store purchases, online transactions, phone orders, and ATM cash withdrawals (if you set a PIN). You can also use it to pay bills online or set up automatic payments through your Bank of America account.

Your credit limit and interest rate were set when Bank of America approved your application. You can view both in the app or by logging into your online account. If you want to request a higher credit limit, you can do that through the app under "Card Settings" or by calling customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I activate it?

No. Your card will be declined at every merchant, ATM, and online store until activation is complete. Activation takes only a few minutes by phone or app, so most people complete it the day they receive the card.

What if I activate my card but forget my PIN?

You can reset your PIN through the Bank of America app, at any ATM, or by calling customer service. You will need to verify your identity with your Social Security number and date of birth. A new PIN takes effect immediately.

Do I have to set a PIN when I activate?

No. A PIN is optional for online and phone purchases, but you will need one to withdraw cash from an ATM or complete certain in-store transactions. You can set a PIN anytime after activation through the app or at an ATM.

What if I activate my card and then lose it?

Call Bank of America immediately at 1-800-432-1000 to report it lost or stolen. They will freeze the card so no one else can use it, and you can request a replacement. You are not responsible for fraudulent charges made after you report the card lost.

How long does activation take?

Activation is instant by phone or app. Your card works immediately after you complete the process. There is no waiting period or processing time.