My new credit card won't work. What should I do?
If you have activated your new credit card and found that it does not work, you should contact your credit card company.
Most new credit cards are sent in a de-activated state to the mailing address you provided on your application. This is to prevent unauthorized use in case the card is lost or stolen before you receive it.
Instructions on how to activate the card should be enclosed. If you don't see them, call your credit card company.
Last Reviewed: April 2021
Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.