Activating your credit card

If your credit card has a sticker on the front when it arrives, you’ll need to activate it online. You can activate it in the mobile banking app, or from this page.

If your card doesn't have a sticker, then you don't need to activate it and can use it straight away.

You'll need to make a Chip and PIN transaction with your new card before you can start using contactless.

Use the mobile banking app or online form

  • You can activate your credit card quickly and securely in the app.
  • The main cardholder must activate any additional cards, they can do this online.
  • Once your card is activated you can use it straight away.

Steps to take

We’ll guide you through it.

    1. Log on and select apply at the bottom of the screen.
    2. Select Credit cards, followed by the option Activate credit card.
    3. Check the card details match your new credit card and then select Activate.
    4. All done – your card is now activated and ready to use.
    1. Open our secure online form.
    2. Enter the credit card number, your date of birth and the credit card expiry date and then select Activate.
    3. All done – your card is now activated and ready to use.

    Activate your credit card

Getting started in the app

Mobile banking app

Join our 10 million app users.

  • Simple and secure login.
  • Set up handy notifications.
  • Message us online.

Continue to app

What happens after I've activated my card?

Once you've activated your card you will be able to use it for purchases in store and online. Before you can start using contactless you'll need to make a Chip and PIN transaction with your new card.

Depending on the credit card you have set up, you'll now have access to a range of online services. Learn more about these below.

Ways to manage your credit card

The mobile banking app and online banking let you manage your card in a way which works for. 

Here are just some of things you can do online:

Existing customer support

Card and PIN services

Find out about how you can manage your cards with the app and online banking.

  • View card details - You can view your credit card details in our Mobile Banking app. This lets you make purchases online or over the phone when you don't have your card to hand.
  • View PIN - Can't remember your PIN? Use our app to view your PIN instantly.
  • Change contactless limit - Use our app to change your contactless limit to one that works for you.
  • Freeze your card - Freeze different types of transactions in our app and get more control over your card.
  • Report your card lost or stolen - If you can’t find your card, don’t worry. You can report your card as lost or stolen online and in our app.
  • Order replacement card or PIN - If there’s a problem with your credit or you need a PIN reminder, let us know online.

Let’s look at the details

You may also like

Your Credit Score

Check your credit score for free and view your credit history with no impact on your credit file.

Check Your Credit Score

Do more with our app

Find out about all the great features of our highly rated app, and how it compares to online banking.

More about our app

Help and guidance

Whether you’re new to credit cards or you’re an existing customer we are here to help. 


Help and guidance

Credit cards

What do you need a credit card for? Our range includes balance transfer, large purchase, everyday spending and reward credit cards. A monthly fee may apply to some reward credit cards.

Explore credit cards

Two people walking with surfboards

Credit cards

What do you need a credit card for? Our range includes balance transfer, large purchase, everyday spending and reward credit cards. A monthly fee may apply to some reward credit cards.

Explore credit cards