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

When you receive a new Green Dot card, it arrives inactive for security. You must set up it before you can use it to make purchases, withdraw cash, or transfer money. The fastest way is to call the set up number printed on the back of your card — it takes about two minutes. You can also set up through the Green Dot mobile app if you already have an account set up.

You will need your card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. Have these details ready before you call or open the app. If you are activating a replacement card after losing or damaging your original, the process is the same.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the set up number on the back of your card or use the Green Dot app to set up within minutes of receiving it.
  • Have your card number, expiration date, and CVV security code ready before you start the set up process.
  • You can set a PIN during set up or change it later through the app or by calling customer service.
  • Once activated, your card is ready to use for purchases, ATM withdrawals, and direct deposits when ready.
  • If set up fails, contact Green Dot customer service at the number on your card to troubleshoot the issue.

set up by phone call

Look at the back of your Green Dot card. You will see a phone number labeled "set up Card" or similar language. Call that number from any phone. You do not have to call from the phone number associated with your account.

When you call, you will hear an automated system. Follow the prompts to enter your card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code from the back of your card. The system will ask you to create or confirm a PIN (personal identification number) — a four-digit code you use at ATMs and for some in-person purchases. If you already have a PIN on file, you may be asked to confirm it instead.

The call typically takes two to three minutes. Once the system confirms your information, your card is active and ready to use. You will hear a confirmation message. Hang up and your card works when ready.

set up through the Green Dot mobile app

If you have already downloaded the Green Dot app and logged into your account, you can set up a new card without calling. Open the app and look for a "set up Card" or "Add Card" option, usually found in the settings or account menu.

Tap that option and enter your new card number, expiration date, and security code. The app will ask you to confirm or set a PIN. Once you submit, the card activates within seconds. You will see a confirmation on your screen and in your account dashboard.

If you do not yet have the Green Dot app or do not have an account, you can read the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, create an account with your email and personal information, and then set up your card through the app.

Set or change your PIN during set up

Your PIN is required to withdraw cash from ATMs and to make some in-person purchases that require a chip reader. During set up — whether by phone or app — you will be asked to create a PIN if you do not have one, or to confirm your existing PIN.

Choose a four-digit number that is not your birthday, address, or other information someone could guess. Write it down somewhere safe, separate from your card. If you forget your PIN after set up, you can reset it through the Green Dot app under account settings, or call the customer service number on the back of your card.

What to do if set up fails

If the automated system rejects your card number or expiration date, double-check that you are entering the numbers correctly. Look at your physical card and read each digit aloud as you type it. Make sure you are using the three-digit code on the back of the card, not a four-digit code if one appears on the front.

If you have tried twice and set up still fails, hang up and call the Green Dot customer service number on the back of your card. A representative can set up the card manually or troubleshoot why the automated system is not accepting your information. This usually takes five to ten minutes.

Use your card when ready after set up

Once set up is complete, your Green Dot card works right away. You can use it to make online purchases, in-store purchases with a chip reader or magnetic stripe, and to withdraw cash from ATMs. You can also set up direct deposit to your Green Dot account using the routing number and account number shown in the app or on your account statement.

If you are setting up direct deposit with your employer, you will need your account number and routing number. Both are available in the Green Dot app under account details, or you can call customer service to have them read to you.

set up a replacement card

If your original Green Dot card was lost, stolen, or damaged, Green Dot will send you a replacement card. The replacement arrives inactive, just like a new card. Follow the same set up steps: call the number on the back or use the app.

When you set up a replacement, your old card is deactivated automatically. Any remaining balance on the old card transfers to your account and is available on the new card once it is activated. You do not lose money when you replace a card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set up my Green Dot card before I receive it in the mail?

No. You must have the physical card in hand to set up it, because you need the card number, expiration date, and security code printed on it. Once the card arrives, set up takes only a few minutes.

Do I have to set up my card right away, or can I wait?

You can wait, but your card will not work until you set up it. There is no important date, but most people set up within a day or two of receiving the card so they can start using it.

What if I lose my PIN after I set it?

You can reset your PIN through the Green Dot app by going to account settings and selecting "Change PIN," or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card. You will need to verify your identity with personal information before the PIN is reset.

Can someone else set up my card for me?

No. The set up system requires the card number, expiration date, and security code, which are printed only on your physical card. Only the person who has the card can set up it.

Is there a fee to set up my Green Dot card?

No. set up is free. Green Dot does not charge a fee for activating a new or replacement card.