set up your Chase card by calling the number on the back or using the Chase mobile app

Chase requires you to set up your card before you can use it for purchases. You have two main routes: call the set up number printed on the back of your card, or log into the Chase mobile app and set up it there. Both take a few minutes and happen when ready.

The phone line is fastest if you have your card in hand right now. The app is faster if you are already logged in and prefer not to call. Either way, you will need your card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to confirm your identity.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the set up number on the back of your card or use the Chase mobile app to set up within minutes of receiving it.
  • You will need your card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to complete set up.
  • Your card cannot be used for any purchase until set up is complete, even if you have an active account.
  • If you do not set up within a set period, Chase may deactivate the card and you will need to request a replacement.

set up by phone call

The fastest method is to call the number printed on the back of your new card. This is a dedicated set up line, not a general customer service number. Have your card and a form of ID nearby.

When you call, the system will ask you to enter your card number using your phone keypad. Then it will ask for the last four digits of your Social Security number. After you enter both, the system will confirm your identity and set up the card on the spot. You will hear a confirmation message, and your card is ready to use when ready.

If the automated system cannot verify your information, you will be transferred to a Chase representative who can set up it manually. This usually means you need to answer security questions or provide additional information about your account.

set up through the Chase mobile app

Open the Chase mobile app on your phone and log in with your username and password. Once you are in your account, look for a notification or banner about your new card, or navigate to the Cards section of the app.

Tap on your new card and select the option to set up. The app will ask you to confirm the last four digits of your card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. After you confirm, the card activates when ready and you will see a confirmation on your screen.

If you do not see an set up option in the app, your card may already be active. Chase sometimes activates cards automatically when they are issued, though you should still verify by attempting a small purchase or checking your card settings.

What happens if you do not set up your card

Your card will not work for any transaction until you set up it, even if your account is in good standing. Merchants will decline the card at checkout, and online purchases will fail at the payment screen.

Chase typically gives you a window of 30 to 45 days to set up a new card before the bank deactivates it for security reasons. If your card is deactivated, you will need to contact Chase and request a replacement card, which adds another week or two to the process.

set up a replacement or reissued card

If Chase sent you a replacement card because your original was lost, stolen, or expired, the set up process is the same. Call the number on the back or use the app. The replacement card has a different number than your old card, so merchants will see it as a new payment method.

If you had recurring charges set up with your old card number — subscriptions, automatic bill payments, or stored payment methods at retailers — you will need to update those separately with your new card number. set up does not carry over your old card's settings.

Troubleshoot set up problems

If the automated phone line rejects your information, verify that you are entering your card number and Social Security number correctly. The card number is the long string of digits on the front; do not include spaces or dashes when you enter it by phone.

If the app shows an error or does not recognize your card, try logging out and logging back in. Sometimes the app needs to refresh to see a newly issued card. If the problem persists, call the set up line instead — the phone system is more reliable for newly issued cards.

If you cannot remember your Social Security number or do not have it available, you can still set up by phone by speaking to a representative. Press the option to speak to someone, and they can verify your identity using other information from your account, such as your address or recent transactions.

What to do after set up

Once your card is active, you can use it when ready for in-store purchases, online shopping, and cash withdrawals at ATMs. There is no waiting period after set up.

If you set up a PIN for your card, you can use it at ATMs and some merchants right away. If you have not set up a PIN yet, you can do so through the Chase app or by calling the number on the back of your card. A PIN is required for ATM withdrawals but optional for most retail purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my card before I set up it?

No. Chase blocks all transactions on an unactivated card. The card will be declined at checkout, online, and at ATMs until you complete set up through the phone line or app.

How long does set up take?

set up is when ready. Once you confirm your information by phone or in the app, your card is ready to use within seconds. There is no processing time.

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

Yes. Even if you have an existing Chase checking or savings account, each new card must be activated separately before use. The set up is tied to the specific card number, not your account.

What if I lose my card before I set up it?

Contact Chase when ready and report the card lost. Chase will cancel that card and issue you a replacement. You will then set up the replacement card using the same process.

Can someone else set up my card for me?

No. Chase requires the cardholder to set up using their own Social Security number. If you are unable to set up yourself, you can call the set up line and speak to a representative, who can walk you through the process or answer questions, but you must provide your own information.