How to activate a Bank of America credit card

To activate your Bank of America credit card, all you need is online access or a call with a Bank of America customer support representative. No matter which activation option you choose, the process shouldn’t take more than a few minutes and you’ll be able to use your credit card immediately upon activation.

How to activate your Bank of America card online

To use this option, you must be enrolled in online banking. If you’re not, you can enroll using your Social Security number or Tax ID Number, and the last six digits of your card or bank account number. Once you signup, here’s how to activate your card:

1. Go to the Bank of America website and log in to your online account
2. Verify your identity and credit card
3. Your credit card is now activated

How to activate your Bank of America card by phone

If you prefer calling a bank representative to assist you:

1. Call 800-276-9939
2. Say or enter your full account number
3. Follow the prompts

How to activate your Bank of America card with a mobile app

Another option is to use the Bank of America mobile app.

1. Download the app for iOS or Android
2. Log in with the same information as your online banking account
3. Find your new card under accounts and activate it

Getting started with your Bank of America card

Now that you have your new Bank of America credit card active, here’s what you can do to maximize rewards and optimize your credit card:

1. Download the mobile app. Using the Bank of America mobile app will simplify your account management. With the app, you can monitor your account, make payments, activate your BankAmeriDeals or contact support.
2. Set up digital wallets. Bank of America supports a host of digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay and Garmin Pay. Using digital wallets can help you pay inside the store by using your phone or a smartwatch.
3. Enroll in online banking. Visit Bank of America website to enroll in online banking. You need to provide your card’s last six digits and your SSN or TIN to enroll. Use your online account to monitor your cards, activate autopay, redeem rewards and more.
4. Set up a PIN. Your card should already have a personal identification number (PIN). But in case it doesn’t have one — or if you want to reset your old PIN — visit a Bank of America branch or call 800-432-1000. You need PIN for ATM cash withdrawals and when using the card abroad.
5. Set up autopay. You can set up automatic payments either online or through your Bank of America mobile app. First, you must enroll in eBills through the Bill Pay tab.
6. Maximize rewards. If you got a rewards credit card, you’ll want to know how to earn and redeem Bank of America rewards for the best value.

Bottom line

Activate your Bank of America credit card online, by phone or by using Bank of America’s mobile app. Consider adding one of the best secondary credit cards to your wallet to increase your credit limit, get additional perks or earn a new signup bonus.

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Written by

Kliment Dukovski

Writer

Kliment Dukovski was a personal finance writer at Finder, specializing in investments and cryptocurrency. He's written more than 700 articles to help readers compare the best trading platforms, understand complex investment terms and find the best credit cards for their needs. His expert commentary has been featured in such digital publications as Fox Business, MSN Money and MediaFeed. He’s also well-versed in money transfers, home loans and more — breaking down these topics into simple concepts anyone can understand. In another life, Kliment ghostwrote guides and articles on foreign exchange, stock market trading and cryptocurrencies. See full bio

Kliment's expertise

Kliment has written 86 Finder guides across topics including:

• Investing
• Day trading
• Stock market technical analysis
• Personal and business credit cards