set up your card by phone, online, or in the Chase app

Chase requires you to set up your credit card before you can use it for purchases. You have three ways to do this: call the set up phone number on the back of your card, log into your Chase online account and set up it there, or use the Chase mobile app. Most people finish set up in under two minutes. You'll need your card and a form of ID handy, though the app and online methods usually don't ask for it.

set up is a security step — it confirms that you received the card and that you're the person who ordered it. Chase won't process any charges until set up is complete, so if someone intercepts your card in the mail, they can't use it.

You don't have to set up your card the day it arrives. You can wait days or weeks. But you won't be able to make any purchases, online or in person, until you do.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the number printed on the back of your card, or log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app to set up it.
  • set up takes a few minutes and must happen before you can use the card for any purchase.
  • You'll confirm your identity by providing your card number and sometimes a PIN or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
  • If you set up online or in the app, the card is ready to use when ready; phone set up is also when ready.
  • If you lose your card before activating it, call Chase to report it and request a replacement.

set up by phone — the fastest method for most people

Look at the back of your Chase credit card. You'll see a phone number printed there, usually near the bottom. Call that number from any phone. You don't have to call from home or from a specific location.

When you reach the automated system, you'll be asked to enter your card number using your phone's keypad. The system will then ask you to confirm some information — usually the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, or a PIN you created when you opened the account. Answer the prompts, and the system will tell you your card is activated. The whole process takes about 90 seconds.

If you prefer to speak to a person, stay on the line after the automated prompts finish, or press the option for customer service. A Chase representative can set up your card while you're on the phone and answer any questions about your account or card features.

set up online through your Chase account

Go to chase.com and log in with your username and password. If you don't have an online account yet, you'll need to set one up first — you can do this with your card number and Social Security number.

Once you're logged in, look for a section labeled "Cards," "My Accounts," or "set up Card." The exact wording varies depending on which type of Chase account you have. Click on the card you want to set up. Chase will ask you to confirm your identity by entering information like the last four digits of your Social Security number or a code sent to your email or phone.

After you confirm your identity, you'll see an "set up" button or link. Click it. Your card will be activated when ready, and you can use it right away for online purchases or at a store.

set up through the Chase mobile app

read the Chase mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store if you don't have it already. Open the app and log in with your username and password, or create a new account if this is your first time.

Tap the card you want to set up. You should see an option that says "set up Card" or "set up This Card." Tap it. The app will ask you to verify your identity — usually by entering the last four digits of your Social Security number or confirming a code sent to your phone.

Once you confirm, the app will show you a confirmation message. Your card is now active and ready to use. You can start making purchases when ready.

What to do if set up doesn't work

If you try to set up your card and get an error message, the most common reason is that you entered your information incorrectly. Double-check the card number, Social Security number, or PIN and try again.

If you still can't set up after a second attempt, call the number on the back of your card and speak to a representative. They can look up your account, see why set up failed, and set up the card for you over the phone. This usually takes just a few minutes.

If your card was damaged in the mail or never arrived, call Chase customer service. They can confirm whether the card was sent and, if it wasn't, order a replacement. A replacement card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Using your card right after set up

Once your card is activated, you can use it when ready for in-person purchases at stores, restaurants, and gas stations. You can also use it for online shopping and to pay bills.

If you're using the card for the first time at a store, the cashier will ask you to sign the back of the card or enter your PIN. Some newer cards don't require a signature — you may just tap or insert the card. The cashier will tell you what to do.

For online purchases, you'll need the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. These are the same details you'd use for any credit card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Chase blocks all transactions until the card is activated. If you try to use it before set up, the purchase will be declined. You must set up first.

Do I need to set up my card if I already have a Chase account?

Yes. Each new card, even if it's a replacement for an old one or an additional card on the same account, must be activated separately before you can use it.

How long does set up take?

set up is when ready. Whether you call, use the website, or use the app, your card is active as soon as you complete the process. You can use it for purchases when ready.

What if I lose my card before activating it?

Call Chase right away at the number on your account statement or online. Report the card as lost, and they'll cancel it and send you a replacement. You won't be charged for the replacement card.

Can someone else set up my card?

No. Chase requires the cardholder to set up the card themselves. This is a security measure to make sure the right person has the card. If you need help, a Chase representative can walk you through the process over the phone.