Business

How to Easily Activate Your Credit Card

RawatDecember 23, 2024

Once the financial institution approves your credit card application, you need to activate the card. Doing so will ensure you can start enjoying all of its many features and rewards. There are only a few easy steps you must follow to activate credit cards. With numerous issuers providing many types of credit cards, learning how to activate them is vital.

The activation process is typically quick and straightforward. And, you can do it via several avenues, be it online or offline. 

Activate Your Credit Card Online

Get your credit card ready for use by activating it online through a simple process. You can either use internet banking or your issuer’s mobile app to complete the activation quickly. Follow the steps below to activate your card with ease:

Using Internet Banking

  1. Visit your issuer’s official website
  2. Log in using your internet banking account using your credentials
  3. Navigate to the card activation section
  4. Enter your credit card details and submit
  5. Input your ATM PIN on the next screen and confirm
  6. Enter the One-time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number
  7. Click ‘Continue’ or ‘Next’ to activate your credit card

Via Mobile Application

  1. Download and log in to your issuer’s mobile app
  2. Navigate to the option that lets you activate your card
  3. Enter your card details, such as the card number and expiry date
  4. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number
  5. Submit the OTP and set up your user ID and password
  6. Choose a security question and answer it
  7. Confirm to complete the activation

Activate Your Credit Card Offline

Activating your credit card in person is straightforward and offers convenient options. You can choose to get direct assistance from customer support or use SMS for activation. Both methods allow you to activate your card without needing internet access. Here’s how you can do so:

Through the Customer Support Service

  1. Find the customer support contact details on your issuer’s official website
  2. Dial the customer support number listed
  3. Request the representative for the steps to activate your card
  4. Follow the prompts and instructions provided by the representative
  5. Provide any necessary information, including your card details and personal identification
  6. Confirm your card activation as directed by the customer support staff

Via SMS

  1. Find the SMS number of your card issuer and the code to activate the card
  2. Open the messages box on your mobile and frame an SMS with the code
  3. Send the SMS to the designated number provided by your issuer
  4. Await an immediate response regarding the activation process
  5. Follow the steps outlined in the response to complete the activation of your card

Create a PIN for Your Card

After you activate your card, you will need to set up a PIN. It is a 4-digit number that ensures you can use it securely. You can create your card’s PIN by following these steps:

  1. Access your net banking account
  2. Select the ‘Credit Card’ option
  3. Click on ‘Generate Credit Card PIN Online’
  4. Choose your card and enter the CVV
  5. Click ‘Submit’ to receive an OTP, then enter the OTP
  6. Create your new PIN


You can also use the OTP as the PIN to set up a new PIN by visiting your bank’s ATM. Here is how:

  1. Visit your bank’s ATM
  2. Insert your card into the machine
  3. Select the option for setting a new PIN
  4. Enter the OTP you get on your phone
  5. Create and confirm your new PIN
  6. Complete the process and take your card

Tips to Start Using Your Credit Card Safely

After you activate your credit card, remember these tips to ensure you use it responsibly:

TipDescription 
Keep Your Card SecureAlways keep your card within sight during transactions to prevent theft
Regularly Change Your PINChange your PIN at least every six months to enhance security
Never Share Your PINKeep your PIN and OTP private; don’t share them with anyone
Monitor Alerts and StatementsRegularly check alerts and statements for unauthorized transactions.
Shop Safely OnlineUse secure websites (look for “https://”) when shopping online to avoid scams.
Report Losses ImmediatelyContact your issuer promptly if your card is lost or if you notice fraudulent transactions.
Use Contactless OptionsActive contactless payments and tap or wave your card at POS devices so that you do not need to hand over your card to reduce fraud. 
Be Wary of Suspicious LinksAvoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or messages claiming to be from your issuer.

In today’s diverse financial landscape, selecting the right credit card is crucial for effective money management. Once you’ve activated your credit card, you can enjoy its various benefits and rewards. For a hassle-free experience, consider the One Credit Card, which offers lifetime-free benefits. 

With its innovative app, you can track your spending, manage your finances, and earn rewards with every transaction. Download the app or visit the website to apply now!