You can typically get a replacement credit card within seven business days. In many cases, you won't have to wait that long. For example, American Express offers free next-day shipping; Visa cards can be replaced in one to three days once your bank approves.
You can apply and get approval for a credit card within minutes; receiving your card in the mail can take 7-10 business days. Some credit card issuers allow qualifying customers instant access to credit.
If your card was damaged
You can continue to use your current credit card until your new one arrives. When you have the new card, cut up or shred the old one. Your automatic payments will continue as scheduled since your new credit card will have the same number.
You can order a replacement earlier than your expiration date if needed.
Because of their expiration dates, credit cards get replaced every few years. Your credit card issuer will typically mail your new card ahead of the old card's expiration date. And you can usually activate your new card by signing in to your account online, using your card issuer's app or calling the activation number.
When you report the lost credit card, the issuer will most likely cancel your old card number in an effort to prevent any unauthorized charges and then send you a new card with a new number. But it could take a few days for the replacement card to arrive.
Does a lost credit card affect your credit score? Replacing a credit card won't affect your credit score. Even if you get a new card with a new 16-digit number, the card account and the age of that account remain the same for the purpose of credit reporting. Replacing a credit card doesn't zero out what you owe.
It's also a good idea to wait at least 90 days between new credit card applications, and it's even better if you can wait a full 6 months. Waiting between credit card applications helps protect your credit score from the negative effects of too many credit inquiries.
You don't need to wait to activate this new card—you do it as soon as you get it. Make sure you destroy your old card as soon as you activate the new one. Ideally, you'll always activate your credit card right away to avoid running into any activation issues.
This rule allows cardholders to pay their credit card bill three days before the due date without paying late fees or interest charges. It's a safety net designed to help with minor payment delays, ensuring that unexpected situations don't cause financial penalties for users.
There are some differences around how the various data elements on a credit report factor into the score calculations. Although credit scoring models vary, generally, credit scores from 660 to 724 are considered good; 725 to 759 are considered very good; and 760 and up are considered excellent.
Request expedited shipping
If you can't wait the standard seven to 10 business days to receive your credit card in the mail, you could ask if your issuer offers expedited shipping. Just keep in mind that you might be charged a fee for the service.
How do I request a replacement card if my card is lost, damaged or no longer works? To request a replacement card, sign in to Chase Online℠ and follow the instructions. We'll send you a replacement card that'll arrive within 5-7 business days.
Some issuers may let cardholders use their credit card accounts almost as soon as their application is approved. These might be called instant-use credit cards. Some other issuers may require cardholders to wait for physical cards to arrive in the mail. To use a card instantly might require a virtual credit card.
Yes, you can use a credit card before it arrives in the mail, but only with certain cards. If you want to use a credit card early, you must either have an American Express or Capital One credit card or one of a handful of other offers, including the Apple Card, and some store credit cards.
What is the 5/24 rule? Many card issuers have criteria for who can qualify for new accounts, but Chase is perhaps the most strict. Chase's 5/24 rule means that you can't be approved for most Chase cards if you've opened five or more personal credit cards (from any card issuer) within the past 24 months.
Quick Answer
It's generally best to wait six months between credit card applications. That will prevent hard inquiries from making a significant negative impact on your credit score.
There's no such thing as “too many” hard credit inquiries, but multiple applications for new credit accounts within a short time frame may point to a risky borrower. Rate shopping for a particular loan, however, may be treated as a single inquiry and have minimal impact on your creditworthiness.
A replacement card—which you'd get if your original has been lost or stolen—typically arrives within 7 days. Most credit card issuers offer expedited shipping for replacement cards—just ask.
If you've outgrown your current credit card, you could ask your card issuer to upgrade it or apply for a new one. Upgrading your credit card generally won't hurt your credit, while a new application can cause a slight, temporary decrease in your score.
The Bottom Line
When you lose your credit card, you can avoid an impact to your finances by reporting the card lost or missing immediately. In general, a lost or stolen credit card will have no impact on your credit score. In most cases, you will not be held responsible for charges on a lost or stolen card.
Replace your damaged credit cards
While you wait for it to arrive, you can still use the existing card.
If I Get a New Debit Card, Will It Cancel My Subscription? No, getting a new debit card doesn't necessarily cancel your subscription.
Closing older accounts can lead to a score drop, especially if you decide to close the card you've had the longest. Even though closed accounts remain on your credit report for up to 10 years, they no longer contribute to the ongoing aging of your credit history.