How to Register a Credit Card

Activating and registering a credit card are two separate actions. Activating your credit card makes it possible to actually use the card, while registering your credit card provides online access to a suite of card information and tools. Both are important.

What is credit card registration?

Registering a credit card account refers to creating an online account and logging on to the credit card’s online dashboard for the first time. Actually using the card for purchases generally will not require online registration. Activities like viewing a statement online or setting up automated payments will require registration.

See if you’re pre-approved

How does credit card registration work?

When your credit card arrives, it will come with instructions to register your account online. You’ll usually be asked to enter your credit card’s number and expiration date, plus personal information such as your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number.

Benefits of registering your credit card online

When you register credit cards online, you gain access to a number of card management services. Discover cardmembers who register credit cards for the Account Center have 24/7 access to account summaries, statements, online bill pay, and messaging.

Setting up autopay

One way to never miss a credit card payment is to set up automatic payments through your issuer’s website. Cardmembers can opt to link their payment directly to a bank account so that when their monthly due date comes around, they won’t have to manually enter the required information.

Tracking cash back rewards

If your credit card offers rewards, an online portal can provide updates on just how much you’ve earned. If your card offers bonus categories, you can activate them online to earn more points.

Tracking your credit score

Some major issuers provide free credit scores on their portals, which is useful if you’re working on improving your credit and would like to see how it changes with your spending and payment behavior. Credit scores are important to credit issuers and lenders when making credit-related decisions, so it’s the score you’ll want to keep your eye on.

Updating information or freezing your credit card

An issuer’s online portal will often allow cardmembers to update important card information like addresses and status of card. If you misplace your card, for example, issuers may allow you to put a temporary hold on your credit card while you search for it. If you’re sure it’s gone, you may be able to report the card lost or stolen through the portal, also alerting your issuer to send a new one in its place.