A Comdata card is a payroll card that allows employees to instantly receive their paychecks. Each payroll period, an employee’s net pay is deposited onto their card in lieu of receiving a paper check. Holders of the card can withdraw cash, make online purchases and pay bills. The cards are backed by MasterCard and can be used as debit cards wherever MasterCard is accepted.

Like most debit and credit cards, a Comdata card must be activated before using it for the first time. There are two ways a cardholder can activate a Comdata card, online or by telephone.

Online Activation

Comdata has an internet portal that allows cardholders to activate their cards online. On the Comdata activation page, choose the “click here to register” option. Enter the card number and your activation code. The activation code is your nine-digit Social Security Number. Click “next” and continue to follow the prompts until the site indicates that the registration of your card is complete.

When you activate your Comdata card online, you will also set up an account profile. Through this profile, you will see the balance available on your account. You can also set up direct deposit to transfer funds from your Comdata account to a designated bank account.

Telephone Activation

Alternatively, activate your Comdata card over the phone by calling toll-free (888) 265-8228. The automated service will guide you through the activation process.

You will need to enter the card number and the activation code. Your activation code may be your date of birth, phone number, employee number or other code provided by your company.

PIN Number

You will automatically receive a personal identification number (PIN) when you activate your card online or by phone. You can then change the PIN to something that is easier for you to remember.

This four-digit number is needed for certain transactions, including ATM withdrawals or debit purchases. The PIN is also required when you use the Comdata automated phone system.

Other Types of Comdata Cards

Comdata offers a variety of cards in addition to payroll cards. Comdata also provides cards to help manage fleet operations, corporate expenses, accounts payable, travel expenses, per diems and corporate disbursements.

All Comdata cards can be activated using the two methods above. The information required may differ slightly, depending on the card. For example, holders of a Comdata Prepaid MasterCard call a different toll-free number and enter a three-digit security code found on the back of the card.

The specific activation instructions for each Comdata card are included in the materials provided when you receive your card.