set up your Chase debit card by phone, online, or in person at an ATM

Chase sends debit cards in an inactive state for security. You must set up yours before you can use it to make purchases or withdraw cash. The fastest way is to call the number on the back of your card — set up takes about two minutes. You can also set up online through your Chase account, at a Chase ATM, or in a branch.

Your card arrives with a sticker on the front that lists the set up phone number. This number connects you to Chase's automated system, which asks you to verify your identity using your card number and PIN or other information from your account. Once verified, your card becomes active when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the number printed on the sticker attached to your new debit card to set up it by phone in about two minutes.
  • You can also set up your card online by signing into your Chase account, going to the card settings, and following the set up prompt.
  • Chase ATMs and branch locations offer in-person set up if you prefer not to call or use the website.
  • Your card will not work for purchases or cash withdrawals until you complete set up, even if you have set a PIN.

set up by phone — the fastest method

Look for the white sticker on the front of your new Chase debit card. The sticker displays a phone number and a temporary PIN. Call that number from any phone.

The automated system will ask you to enter your card number using the keypad. It will then ask you to verify your identity — usually by entering your temporary PIN, your Social Security number, or your date of birth. Once verified, the system confirms your card is now active. You can use it when ready.

If you have trouble with the automated system, you can press a key to speak with a Chase representative. They can set up your card over the phone and answer questions about your account at the same time.

set up online through your Chase account

Sign into your Chase account on the Chase website or mobile app. Go to the card or account settings section — the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but both have a "Cards" or "Manage Cards" option.

Find your new card in the list and look for an "set up" button or link. Click it and follow the prompts, which usually ask you to confirm the last four digits of your card and verify your identity. Once you submit, your card becomes active.

This method works if you already have online access to your Chase account. If you have not yet set up online banking, you will need to do that first — you can start at chase.com or in the Chase mobile app.

set up at a Chase ATM or branch

You can set up your card at any Chase ATM by inserting it and following the on-screen prompts. The ATM will ask you to enter a PIN and verify your identity, then confirm set up.

If you prefer to speak with someone, visit any Chase branch during business hours. A teller can set up your card on the spot and help you set up your PIN if you have not done so already. Bring your card and a photo ID.

What to do if your card will not set up

If the automated phone system rejects your identity information, double-check that you are entering the correct temporary PIN from the sticker. The PIN is case-sensitive and must match exactly. If you have lost the sticker, call the number on the back of an existing Chase card or visit a branch.

If you have already activated your card but it is being declined at stores or ATMs, the card may not be fully processed yet. New cards sometimes take a few hours to sync with Chase's payment network after set up. Wait a few hours and try again. If the problem continues, call the number on the back of your card to speak with a representative.

If your card arrived damaged or you never received it, contact Chase when ready. They can cancel the card and send a replacement. Do not attempt to set up a damaged card.

Set your PIN after set up

set up and PIN setup are separate steps. Your card becomes active as soon as you complete the set up process, but you may need to set a permanent PIN before you can withdraw cash at an ATM.

You can set your PIN during the set up call by pressing the appropriate option, or you can set it later through your Chase account online, at an ATM, or at a branch. If you set a PIN during set up, write it down in a safe place — do not write it on the card itself.

If you forget your PIN, you can reset it at any Chase ATM, through your online account, or by calling the number on the back of your card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Your card will be declined at every merchant and ATM until set up is complete. set up takes only a few minutes, so complete it as soon as you receive your card to avoid delays when you need to use it.

How long does set up take?

Phone set up takes about two minutes. Online set up is similarly fast. In-person set up at a branch or ATM takes five to ten minutes. Your card works when ready after you finish the set up process.

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

Yes. Setting a PIN and activating your card are two separate security steps. You must complete set up even if you have already chosen a PIN. set up verifies your identity and links your card to your account.

What if I set up my card but never use it?

An activated card that sits unused will not be closed by Chase. However, if your account is inactive for an extended period, Chase may close it according to their account policies. Check your account agreement or contact Chase if you have questions about inactivity.

Can someone else set up my card for me?

No. Chase requires the cardholder to set up the card themselves for security reasons. The set up process verifies your identity, so you must be the one to complete it. If you cannot set up it yourself, visit a Chase branch and ask a representative for help.