How to Activate an ATM Card

Whenever you receive a new ATM card--when you open a new banking account or your current card expires--you must activate the card before using it. Why? Security. You wouldn't want just anyone to be able to take your new ATM card from your mailbox and use it. Also, use caution when you receive an ATM card in the mail, particularly if you did not request one or you current ATM card is not near the expiration date.

Instructions

How to Activate ATM Card

1. Read the fine print that comes with your card. Some credit card companies offer what appears to be an ATM card to establish a new line of credit. Activating the card will open the new account. If you receive a card you did not apply for or it is not from your bank, cut the card in half and return it to the mailer.

2. Check the expiration date on your current ATM card. If the card is not close to expiration, the card you received in the mail could be part of a scam. Do not activate it If the expiration date is close and the bank that sent the card is your bank, proceed to the next steps.

3. You can activate the card either at an ATM machine or by phone. The phone number activation usually is on a sticker attached to the card or listed in the letter accompanying the card.

4. If using the phone, you typically you will be asked to provide the last four digits of your social security number, the PIN of your ATM card, your mailing address and the answer to a security question that you set when opening your banking account. Follow the telephone prompts to activate ATM card.

5. If using an ATM, you can activate a new card simply by putting it into the machine to check your account balance. Some banks will allow you to activate your card by using the ATM for a transaction. Entering your PIN into the ATM will automatically activate the card and continue your banking account services.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are concerned a new ATM card you've been sent is not legitimate, go to your bank and ask if the card was issued for your account.

References

• FDIC Common Sense for ATM Cards
• ATM Saftey