How to order a new bank card
You can order a new debit or credit card through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. Most banks let you request a replacement card in minutes online, and the card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee, or you can visit a branch to pick up a temporary card the same day.
The process differs slightly depending on whether you're replacing a lost or damaged card, ordering a duplicate for a family member, or getting a card for the first time. Your bank will ask you to confirm your identity before issuing a new card, and they may temporarily freeze your old card to prevent fraud.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks process new card orders online or through their app within minutes, with delivery in 7 to 10 business days.
- You'll need to confirm your identity and specify whether you're replacing a lost card, ordering a duplicate, or requesting a new card type.
- Expedited shipping costs extra but can get a card to you in 2 to 3 business days; some banks offer same-day pickup at branches.
- Your old card is usually frozen immediately when you order a replacement, so have a backup payment method ready.
- If your card was lost or stolen, report it to your bank before ordering a replacement to protect against fraud.
Ordering through your bank's website or app
Log into your online banking account or mobile app and look for a "Cards," "Manage Cards," or "Account Services" section. Click the option to order or replace a card. You'll be asked to select which account the card is tied to, confirm the card type (debit or credit), and choose a delivery method.
At this point, your bank will show you the estimated arrival date—usually 7 to 10 business days for standard shipping. Some banks display expedited options with costs ranging from $10 to $25 for 2 to 3 business day delivery. Review the details, confirm your mailing address, and submit the request. You should receive an email confirmation immediately.
Your old card will be deactivated automatically, usually within a few hours. Check your account settings to see if you can track the card's shipment; many banks send tracking information via email or text once the card ships from their fulfillment center.
Ordering by phone or at a branch
Call the customer service number on the back of your current card or on your bank's website. A representative will verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up previously. Tell them you want to order a new card and whether you need standard or expedited delivery.
If you visit a branch in person, bring a photo ID and your account information. Many banks can issue a temporary card on the spot—a paper card or a digital card added to your phone's wallet—that works immediately while your permanent card is being printed and shipped. This option is useful if you need to make a payment before your new card arrives.
What to do if your card was lost or stolen
Report the lost or stolen card to your bank immediately, either through the app, website, or by calling customer service. Your bank will freeze the card right away to stop anyone else from using it. This is a separate step from ordering a replacement, though most banks let you do both in one call or session.
Once you've reported the card, order a replacement using the steps above. Your bank may flag your account as compromised, which could trigger extra verification steps when you use the new card for the first time or make large purchases. This is normal fraud prevention and usually clears within a few days.
Check your recent transactions for any unauthorized charges. If you spot fraud, contact your bank to dispute those charges. Most banks cover fraud on debit and credit cards, though the timeline for refunds varies—typically 10 business days for debit cards and up to 60 days for credit cards.
Ordering a duplicate or additional card
If you want a second card on the same account—for a spouse, adult child, or backup—log into your account and look for an option to "Add a cardholder" or "Order a duplicate card." You'll need the other person's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Some banks require that person to be a joint account holder; others allow authorized users who don't have ownership of the account.
The new cardholder will receive their own card in 7 to 10 business days. They may need to set a PIN or activate the card before using it. Check your bank's rules about spending limits for additional cardholders—some banks let you set daily or monthly caps.
Choosing a card type or design
When you order a new card, you may be able to choose between standard and premium designs, or between a debit card and a credit card if your bank offers both. Some banks let you customize the card with a photo or design. These options usually don't affect the card's function or cost, though premium or custom cards may take longer to arrive.
If you're switching card types—for example, from a basic debit card to a rewards credit card—you may need to open a new account or go through a separate approval process. Ask your bank whether the new card will have the same number as your old one or a different number. A new number means you'll need to update any automatic payments or subscriptions linked to your old card.
What happens while you wait for your new card
Your old card stops working once the new one is ordered, so set up a backup payment method before you submit the request. Use a different debit or credit card, a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay, or set up online bill pay through your bank's website. If you have automatic payments scheduled, update them to use your new card number once it arrives, or switch them to a different payment method temporarily.
If you need cash before your new card arrives, visit an ATM with your old card before it's deactivated, or withdraw cash at a bank branch using your ID. Some banks let you add your new card to a digital wallet before the physical card arrives, which gives you a way to pay online or in stores right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a new bank card?
Standard delivery is 7 to 10 business days. Expedited shipping costs $10 to $25 and takes 2 to 3 business days. Some banks offer same-day pickup at branches or can add the card to your digital wallet immediately so you can pay before the physical card arrives.
Will my new card have the same number as my old one?
No. A replacement card always has a new number. If you have automatic payments or subscriptions linked to your old card, update them with the new number once your card arrives. Your bank can tell you the new number before the card ships if you need it urgently.
Can I order a card if my account is frozen or on hold?
Most banks won't issue a new card if your account is frozen due to fraud, unpaid fees, or a dispute. Contact your bank to resolve the issue first. Once your account is cleared, you can order a replacement card.
What if my new card doesn't arrive after 10 business days?
Check your email for tracking information from your bank's fulfillment center. If tracking shows the card was delivered but you didn't receive it, contact your bank immediately. They can cancel that card and issue a replacement. If tracking shows the card is still in transit after 12 business days, call customer service to request expedited reshipment.
Do I need to activate my new card when it arrives?
Most debit cards activate automatically and work right away. Credit cards often require activation through the bank's app, website, or a phone call. Check the paperwork that comes with your card or log into your account to see if activation is needed. You won't be able to use the card until it's activated.