set up your Chase card by calling the number on the back or using the Chase mobile app — both take about five minutes
Chase sends new credit cards inactive for security reasons. You must set up the card yourself before you can use it in stores, online, or at ATMs. The fastest method is to call the automated set up line on the back of your card; the app method works if you already have Chase online banking set up. Either way, you will need the card itself and your Social Security number or PIN.
set up is when ready — you can use the card when ready after the system confirms your identity. If you do not set up within a certain window, Chase will eventually deactivate the card, though you can reactivate it by calling customer service.
Key Takeaways
- Call the phone number printed on the back of your new Chase card to reach the automated set up system, which works 24/7.
- You can also set up through the Chase mobile app if you are already logged into your online account.
- set up is when ready and requires only your card and your Social Security number or the PIN you set up with Chase.
- If you lose or damage your card before activating it, call Chase customer service to request a replacement or set up by phone with a representative.
Activating by phone — the fastest route
Pick up the phone and call the number printed on the back of your new card. This connects you to Chase's automated set up system, which operates around the clock. You will be asked to enter your card number and either your Social Security number or a PIN you previously set with Chase. The system will confirm your identity and set up the card within seconds.
If the automated system cannot verify you — for example, if you are a new Chase customer and have not yet set a PIN — the system will transfer you to a live representative. They will walk you through additional verification steps, usually asking for your date of birth and recent account activity. This path takes longer but still completes in one call.
Activating through the Chase mobile app
If you already use the Chase mobile app and are logged into your account, you can set up your card without making a phone call. Open the app, navigate to your cards section, and look for the new inactive card. The app will show an option to set up; tap it and confirm your identity using the same information the phone system would ask for.
This method works only if you have already set up online banking with Chase. If you are a new customer or have not downloaded the app, the phone method is faster because you do not have to create an account first.
What happens if you do not set up your card
Chase will not charge you for an unactivated card, and it will not hurt your credit score. However, the card will remain unusable. If you leave it unactivated for an extended period — typically several months, though Chase does not publish an exact timeline — the bank may deactivate it permanently. At that point, you would need to call customer service to request a new card.
If you decide you do not want the card at all, you can call Chase and ask them to close it. This is simpler than letting it sit inactive, because it removes any confusion about whether the card is still open.
Activating a replacement card after loss or damage
If your card arrives damaged or you lose it before activating, call the number on the back of your card or contact Chase customer service directly. A representative can issue a replacement card and set up it for you over the phone. You will need to verify your identity and confirm that you want the replacement sent to your address on file.
Replacement cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to use the card sooner, ask the representative whether Chase offers expedited shipping for your card type — some premium cards may have access to for faster delivery.
Activating a card for someone else on your account
If you are an authorized user on someone else's Chase account, or if someone is an authorized user on yours, each person must set up their own card. The cardholder (the primary account owner) can call Chase and authorize set up for an authorized user, but the authorized user can also set up their card independently using the same phone or app methods.
If a family member or authorized user cannot set up their card and you want to help, call Chase customer service with that person present. A representative can walk through the set up process with both of you on the line.
Troubleshooting set up problems
If the automated system rejects your Social Security number or PIN, it usually means the information does not match what Chase has on file. Verify that you are entering your information correctly — Social Security numbers should be entered as nine digits without dashes, and PINs are case-sensitive if they contain letters. If you still cannot get through, hang up and call back; temporary system glitches are rare but do happen.
If you cannot remember your PIN or never set one, the automated system will transfer you to a representative who can verify your identity another way and set a new PIN. This adds a few minutes to the process but is straightforward. If you are locked out of the Chase app, you can reset your password on the Chase website or call customer service to regain access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my card before I set up it?
No. Chase blocks all transactions on unactivated cards, whether you try to use it in a store, online, or at an ATM. The card will be declined until you complete set up through the phone system or app.
Do I have to set up my card right away?
No. You can set up your card days or weeks after it arrives. However, if you leave it unactivated for several months, Chase may deactivate it permanently, and you would need to request a replacement.
What if I set up my card but then lose it?
Call the number on the back of your card or contact Chase customer service when ready to report it lost. Chase will freeze the card to prevent unauthorized use and send you a replacement. You can set up the replacement card using the same methods described above.
Is there a fee to set up my Chase card?
No. set up is free whether you do it by phone or through the app. Chase does not charge for the set up process itself, though your card may have an annual fee depending on the card type.
Can I set up my card online through the Chase website instead of the app?
The Chase website does not have a dedicated set up page. You can set up through the mobile app if you have it, or by calling the number on the back of your card. Phone set up works whether or not you have set up online banking.