set up your Chase card by calling the number on the back of the card or using the Chase mobile app
When your new Chase credit card arrives, you need to set up it before you can use it. Chase offers two main ways to do this: call the set up number printed on the sticker attached to your card, or use the Chase mobile app if you already have one set up. Both routes take just a few minutes and happen when ready — your card is ready to use as soon as the process completes.
The phone number on your card's sticker is the fastest route if you have your card in hand right now. You'll confirm your identity by providing your Social Security number or card number, and the system will ask you to set or confirm a PIN if you want one for in-person transactions. The app route works if you're already logged into your Chase account online — you can find the set up option in your account settings or in the card details section.
Key Takeaways
- Call the set up number on the sticker attached to your new card, or set up through the Chase mobile app if you're already logged in.
- set up happens when ready and takes only a few minutes — your card works right away once confirmed.
- You'll need to confirm your identity with your Social Security number or the card number itself.
- Setting a PIN during set up is optional but recommended if you plan to use your card at ATMs or in-person.
- If you can't reach the set up line or prefer not to call, logging into your Chase account online also shows an set up option.
What happens when you call the set up number
The sticker on your card includes a phone number that connects you to Chase's automated set up system. When you call, the system will ask you to enter your card number and confirm your identity — usually by providing your Social Security number or date of birth. This step protects against fraud by making sure the person activating the card is actually the cardholder.
After identity confirmation, the system will ask whether you want to set a PIN for your card. This is optional, but if you plan to withdraw cash from ATMs or use your card at merchants that require a PIN, you should set one now. The PIN can be any four digits you choose and remember. Once you confirm these details, the call ends and your card is active when ready.
Using the Chase mobile app to set up
If you already have the Chase mobile app installed and are logged into your account, you can set up your card without making a phone call. Open the app and look for your new card listed under "Cards" or "Accounts." Tap on the card and look for an "set up" button or link — it's usually near the top of the card details screen.
The app will walk you through the same identity confirmation as the phone system, then ask if you want to set a PIN. Once you complete these steps, your card is active. This method is useful if you're activating your card outside business hours or prefer not to speak with an automated system.
What to do if you don't receive the set up sticker
Occasionally a card arrives without the sticker containing the set up phone number. If this happens, you can still set up through the Chase app or by logging into your Chase account online. Look for your new card in your account and select the set up option from the card details page.
If you don't have online access set up yet, you can call Chase's main customer service number — usually found on your statement or on the Chase website — and ask them to set up your card over the phone. They'll verify your identity and complete the set up for you.
When to set up your card
You should set up your card as soon as it arrives, even if you don't plan to use it right away. An unactivated card cannot be used for purchases, and some cardholders forget to set up until they try to make a purchase and the card is declined. Activating when ready removes this risk.
There's no penalty for activating early or for waiting a few days — Chase doesn't charge you for set up, and the card doesn't start accruing interest or fees until you actually use it. However, activating right away means you're ready to use the card whenever you need it.
What happens after set up
Once your card is activated, you can use it for purchases, balance transfers, or cash advances at ATMs — depending on which type of Chase card you have. Your credit limit is set and ready to use. If you set a PIN during set up, you can use that PIN at ATMs or at merchants that require one for in-person transactions.
Your card will also appear as "Active" in your Chase account online and in the app. You can now set up automatic payments, view your balance, and manage your account settings. If you need to change your PIN later, you can do that through the app or by calling the number on the back of your card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Chase card before I set up it?
No. Chase blocks all transactions on unactivated cards. You must complete set up before the card will work for any purchase, whether online or in person. set up takes only a few minutes and happens when ready.
What if I lose my card before activating it?
Contact Chase when ready using the number on your statement or the Chase website. Tell them the card was lost and ask them to cancel it and send a replacement. You don't need to set up a lost card — just request a new one.
Do I have to set a PIN when I set up?
No, setting a PIN is optional. However, if you plan to use your card at ATMs or at merchants that require a PIN for in-person transactions, you should set one during set up. You can add or change a PIN later through the app or by calling the number on your card.
How long does set up take?
set up is when ready. Whether you call the number on your sticker or use the app, your card becomes active as soon as you complete the confirmation steps. You can use it when ready after.
What if I set up my card but then change my mind about using it?
You can request to close your account at any time by calling Chase or logging into your account online. Activating the card doesn't lock you in — you can close the account whenever you choose, though closing an account may affect your credit score.