The fastest way to set up your card

You can set up a Bank of America credit card in three ways: online through your Bank of America account, by phone, or at an ATM. The online method is fastest — it takes about two minutes if you already have online banking set up. You will need your card number, expiration date, and CVV (the three-digit code on the back). If you do not have online access yet, calling the number on the back of your card or visiting a branch works just as well.

Your card will not work for purchases until you complete one of these steps. Some cards may have a temporary hold placed on them for fraud prevention, which the set up process removes. Once activated, you can use the card when ready for in-person purchases, online shopping, and cash advances at ATMs.

Key Takeaways

  • Online set up through your Bank of America account takes about two minutes and requires your card number, expiration date, and CVV.
  • You can also set up by calling the number printed on the back of your card or by visiting a Bank of America branch in person.
  • Your card will not work for any purchases until you complete set up, even if you received it in the mail.
  • set up is free and happens when ready — you can use your card right away once the process is complete.

Activating online through your Bank of America account

Log into your Bank of America online banking account at bankofamerica.com or through the mobile app. Once you are signed in, look for a section labeled "set up Card" or "Card Services" — the exact location varies depending on whether you are using the website or app. You should see your new card listed under your accounts.

Click on the card you want to set up. The system will ask you to confirm your card number, expiration date, and the three-digit CVV code from the back of the card. Enter these details exactly as they appear on the card. After you submit this information, the set up is complete — you will see a confirmation message on screen, and your card is ready to use when ready.

If you do not see an "set up Card" option in your account, your card may already be active. Bank of America sometimes activates cards automatically when they are issued. You can test this by attempting a small purchase, or you can call the customer service number on the back of your card to confirm the status.

Activating by phone

Call the customer service number printed on the back of your new credit card. You will reach an automated system that will ask you to enter your card number using your phone keypad. Have your card in front of you when you call.

The system will walk you through confirming your expiration date and CVV. After you enter this information, the set up is complete. The entire call usually takes less than five minutes. If you prefer to speak with a representative instead of using the automated system, you can stay on the line and press the option for customer service, though this will take longer.

Activating at a Bank of America ATM

Insert your new credit card into any Bank of America ATM. The machine will recognize that the card is not yet active and will prompt you to complete set up. Follow the on-screen instructions, which will ask you to enter your PIN (personal identification number) and confirm your identity.

This method works only at Bank of America ATMs and only if you have already set up a PIN for your credit card. If you have not created a PIN yet, you will need to use the online or phone method instead. Once you complete set up at the ATM, your card is ready to use.

What to do if set up does not work

If you enter your card information and receive an error message, the most common cause is a typo in your card number, expiration date, or CVV. Go back and re-enter each piece of information carefully, checking against the card itself. Make sure you are entering the expiration date in the correct format — usually MM/YY (month and year).

If you still cannot set up after a second attempt, call the customer service number on the back of your card. A representative can check whether there is a fraud hold on your account or another issue preventing set up. They can also set up the card for you over the phone if the automated system is not working.

In rare cases, a card may arrive damaged or with a printing error that prevents set up. If a representative tells you this is the case, they will order a replacement card at no charge and provide you with a temporary card number you can use while you wait.

Using your card before set up is complete

Your card will decline at checkout if you try to use it before set up. This is a security feature — Bank of America holds new cards in an inactive state until you confirm you received it. Do not attempt multiple purchases with an inactive card, as this may trigger a fraud alert on your account.

If you need to make a purchase before you can set up (for example, if you are traveling and your card arrives while you are away), call the customer service number on the back of your card. A representative can provide you with a temporary card number over the phone that you can use for online or phone purchases while your physical card is being activated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does set up take?

set up is when ready. Once you submit your information online, by phone, or at an ATM, your card is active and ready to use right away. You do not need to wait for any confirmation email or letter.

Do I have to set up my card, or does it set up automatically?

Most Bank of America credit cards require you to set up them before use. However, some cards may set up automatically after a certain period of time. To be safe, set up your card as soon as you receive it. If it is already active, the system will tell you.

Can I set up my card if I do not have online banking yet?

Yes. Call the number on the back of your card or visit a Bank of America branch in person. You do not need an online account to set up. If you want to set up online banking at the same time, a representative at the branch can help you do that.

What if I lost my card before activating it?

Contact Bank of America when ready at the number on your account statement or by calling 1-800-432-1000. Report the card as lost, and they will cancel it and order a replacement. Do not attempt to set up a card you no longer have.

Is there a fee to set up my card?

No. set up is free regardless of which method you use. Bank of America does not charge for activating credit cards.