set up your Bank of America card by phone, online, or in person within a few days of receiving it

Bank of America sends new credit cards with a temporary hold on purchases. You must set up the card before you can use it. The fastest method is calling the number on the back of your card or the set up sticker inside the envelope — this takes about two minutes and works when ready. You can also set up online through your Bank of America account or visit a branch in person.

set up confirms that you received the card and that it belongs to you. Bank of America will not charge you a fee to set up. You should set up within a few days of receiving the card, though there is no hard important date — the card will remain inactive until you do.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the number printed on the back of your new card or on the set up sticker to set up by phone in under two minutes.
  • Log into your Bank of America online account, go to the card details section, and select the option to set up if you prefer not to call.
  • Visit any Bank of America branch with your card and a photo ID to set up in person.
  • Your card will not work for purchases or cash withdrawals until set up is complete, even if you received it days ago.
  • Bank of America does not charge a fee to set up, and set up happens when ready by phone or online.

set up by phone — the fastest option

The phone number for set up is printed on the back of your new card, usually near the bottom. If you cannot find it, check the set up sticker that came in the envelope with your card — it also lists the number. Call that number from any phone.

When you call, a system will ask you to enter your card number and other information to verify your identity. You may be asked for your Social Security number, date of birth, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. After verification, the system will confirm that your card is now active. The entire process takes about two minutes. You can use your card when ready after set up.

If you reach a live representative instead of an automated system, they will walk you through the same steps. You do not need to speak to anyone — the automated system works just as well.

set up through your online Bank of America account

Log into your Bank of America account at bankofamerica.com or through the mobile app. Once you are logged in, look for your new card in the card management section. The card will usually show as "Inactive" or "Not Yet Activated."

Click on the card and look for an "set up" button or link. Click it, and the system will ask you to confirm your identity by entering information like your card number or the last four digits of your Social Security number. After you confirm, your card will be active. This method takes about three to five minutes and works on any device with internet access.

If you do not see your new card listed in your account yet, wait a day or two — it can take a few days for the card to appear in your online account after you receive it in the mail.

set up in person at a Bank of America branch

Bring your new card and a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) to any Bank of America branch. A teller or banker can set up your card on the spot. This method is useful if you prefer to speak with someone or if you have questions about your card at the same time.

Branch hours vary by location. You can find your nearest branch and its hours on the Bank of America website or by calling 1-800-432-1000.

What to do if your card does not set up

If you try to set up and receive an error message, the most common cause is entering information incorrectly. Double-check the card number, expiration date, and any other details the system asks for. Try again with the correct information.

If you still cannot set up after a second attempt, call the number on the back of your card and speak with a representative. They can look up your account, see why set up is not working, and complete the process for you over the phone. This usually takes five to ten minutes.

If your card was damaged in the mail or you never received it, call 1-800-432-1000 to report the issue. Bank of America can cancel the card and send you a replacement. The replacement card will arrive in five to seven business days and will need to be activated the same way.

When to set up your card

You should set up your card as soon as you receive it, though there is no penalty for waiting. An inactive card cannot be used for purchases, cash withdrawals, or balance transfers. If you wait too long and forget about the card, you may miss the chance to use any introductory offers or rewards that come with it.

Some Bank of America cards come with a limited-time bonus offer — for example, extra cash back or points if you spend a certain amount in the first three months. These offers usually start counting from the set up date, so activating sooner gives you more time to meet the spending requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Bank of America places a hold on new cards until set up is complete. Any attempt to use the card for a purchase or withdrawal will be declined. set up must happen first, and it takes only a few minutes by phone or online.

Do I have to call to set up, or can I do it online?

You can choose either method. Phone set up is fastest if you want to use your card when ready. Online set up works just as well if you prefer not to call. Both methods take a few minutes and are free.

What if I set up my card and then lose it?

Call the number on the back of your card or contact Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to report it lost or stolen. They will cancel the card when ready and send you a replacement. The replacement will arrive in five to seven business days and will need to be activated.

Does Bank of America charge a fee to set up my card?

No. set up is free whether you do it by phone, online, or in person. Bank of America does not charge any fee for this service.

How long does it take for my card to work after I set up it?

Your card works when ready after set up by phone or online. If you set up in person at a branch, it also works right away. You can use it for purchases or cash withdrawals as soon as the set up process is complete.