Call the set up number on the back of your card

The fastest way to set up a Bank of America credit card is to call the number printed on the back of the card itself. This is an automated system — you do not need to speak to a person. The call takes about two minutes.

Have your card and a form of ID ready when you call. The system will ask you to enter your card number and verify your identity, usually by confirming your Social Security number or date of birth. Once verified, your card becomes active when ready and you can use it right away.

Bank of America's set up line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are calling from outside the United States, check the back of your card for the international number.

set up online through your Bank of America account

If you already have a Bank of America online banking account, you can set up your card without making a phone call. Log into your account at bankofamerica.com and look for the card set up option, usually found under "Account Services" or "Cards."

The online set up process asks you to confirm your card number and verify your identity through security questions or a code sent to your phone. Once you complete these steps, your card is active and ready to use.

This method works if your new card is linked to an existing Bank of America account. If you do not yet have online banking set up, you can create an account during the set up process.

Use the Bank of America mobile app

The Bank of America mobile app includes a card set up feature. Open the app, sign in with your username and password, and navigate to your cards section. You should see an option to set up your new card.

Tap the set up option and follow the prompts to verify your identity. The app will confirm your card number and may ask security questions. Once complete, your card is active within seconds.

The mobile app method is convenient if you already use the app for banking. The set up happens just as quickly as the phone line, and you have a record of the set up in your app history.

What happens if you do not set up your card

Bank of America does not automatically set up new cards when they arrive. If you receive a card and do not set up it, you cannot use it to make purchases, even if you have a credit limit. The card straightforward sits inactive in your wallet.

There is no time limit to set up a card — you can set up it days or weeks after receiving it. However, if you plan to use the card soon, activating it right away prevents delays when you are ready to make your first purchase.

set up for different types of Bank of America cards

The set up process is the same whether you have a cash-back card, a travel rewards card, a student card, or a secured card. All Bank of America credit cards use the same three set up methods: phone, online, or mobile app.

If you received a replacement card because your old one expired or was lost, the set up process is identical. The new card number is different from the old one, so you will need to set up the replacement card before using it.

Troubleshooting set up problems

If the automated phone line rejects your identity verification, try again with different information — sometimes the system has trouble with certain name spellings or address formats. If it continues to fail, you can speak to a Bank of America representative by staying on the line after the automated prompts end.

If you cannot log into your online account to set up the card, reset your password first. If you have never set up online banking, you will need to create an account before you can set up through the website or app.

If you lose your card before activating it, call the number on the set up notice that came with your card, or contact Bank of America directly at 1-800-435-7000. They can cancel the lost card and send you a replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • You can set up your Bank of America credit card by calling the number on the back of the card, logging into your online account, or using the mobile app.
  • The phone set up line is available 24 hours a day and takes about two minutes to complete.
  • Your card will not work for purchases until you set up it, even if you have a credit limit.
  • The set up process is the same for all types of Bank of America credit cards, including replacement cards.
  • If automated set up fails, you can speak to a representative by staying on the phone line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Bank of America credit cards do not work for any purchases until you complete the set up process. The card is blocked at the point of sale until set up is finished.

How long does set up take?

set up is when ready. Once you complete the phone call, online form, or app process and verify your identity, your card is active and ready to use right away. You do not need to wait for confirmation emails or additional steps.

Do I need to set up my card if I only plan to use it online?

Yes. set up is required for all uses of the card, whether you plan to use it in a store, online, or over the phone. The set up process is the same regardless of how you intend to use the card.

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

Call Bank of America when ready at 1-800-435-7000 to report the card lost or stolen. They will cancel the card right away so no one else can use it. You can request a replacement card, which will arrive in the mail and will need to be activated before use.

Can someone else set up my card for me?

No. The set up process requires you to verify your identity using personal information like your Social Security number or date of birth. Bank of America will not set up a card for someone other than the cardholder.