A new debit card may not be contactless because it hasn't been activated via a Chip and PIN transaction, it lacks the necessary antenna (look for the wifi-like symbol), or it is a lower-tier card not featuring the technology. Other common reasons include merchant terminal issues, needing a first-use chip insertion, or a, "1" issue.
Make sure your card is activated for contactless payments, check if it's damaged, and ensure you haven't exceeded the transaction limit. If all else fails, use chip and PIN instead. Why isn't my tap card working? Your tap card might not work if it's damaged, dirty, or has reached its contactless limit.
The first time you use your contactless card, you'll need to use chip and PIN or sign for your purchase. Once you've done that, all future transactions can be contactless. Hold your card close to the reader - around two to four centimetres - for it to work.
Contactless means you don't need to faff with chip & PIN or cash; your card, phone or smart watch has a tiny chip that securely transmits payment details. Cards: Almost all new UK debit and credit cards are contactless. Smartphones: Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Wallet let you add your card to your device.
Set up tap to pay
Sometimes when you try to make a contactless payment, your card may not be recognised by the payment terminal. This can be due to a number of reasons, including a faulty card or a technical issue with the terminal.
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.
New and replacement cards
If you have a new or replacement contactless card, you might not be able to make a contactless payment until you've made your first chip and PIN transaction. This is a security measure applied by your card issuer. Also check the 'Valid From' date to ensure it's ready to be used.
How do I know if my card or device can make contactless payments? You'll see the Contactless Indicator on your card.
Use Online Banking: Log in to your bank's online banking portal or mobile app. There should be an option to check the status of your card under the account or card management section. Visit an ATM: Insert your card into an ATM and try to perform a transaction, such as checking your balance or making a small withdrawal.
Activate your contactless card
When you get your new contactless card, you must use it for a Chip and PIN transaction or an ATM cash withdrawal before making a contactless purchase (so we know you've received your card). Once you've done that, you're ready to make contactless payments.
Yes, you can activate your debit card without going to the bank by using your bank's mobile app, online banking portal, calling the activation number, or sometimes by simply making a purchase or using an ATM with your new PIN. Most banks offer these convenient, self-service options for activation.
Inactive Card
If you have a new debit card, make sure you called in to activate it. The card will not work until that activation occurs.
How to set up Tap to Pay on your Android device?
You don't need to activate your new card when you get it – you just need to make a chip-and-PIN transaction before you can make a contactless payment. Your new card will have a different number, so you'll need to update your card details if you've registered them anywhere.
By using NetBanking or Phone Banking, your new Debit Card can be activated in a matter of a few hours.
Contactless payments
Your NFC may not be working due to it being turned off, outdated software, interference from metal cases, or app conflicts. Hardware damage or improper positioning of the phone against the NFC tag or reader can also prevent proper functioning.
To check whether your credit or debit card is contactless, look out for the symbol on the card. It's four lines, curved and increasing in size from left to right, on the front or back of your card. You might notice it's similar to the Wi-Fi symbol.
Your card didn't work, it may be because: There's a problem with the terminal. There's a problem with your card. You might have reached the contactless limit on your card and for security reasons you will need to insert your card and complete a chip and PIN transaction.
Whether you're applying for a new debit card or replacing a lost or stolen card, instant issue allows you to immediately activate your new debit card and use it at a moment's notice. You won't have to wait for your new card to arrive in the mail.
Call customer service: You can call the phone number on the back of your credit card to reach customer service. You'll be able to check the status of your card and, if it is deactivated, you can ask about reactivation. Make a purchase: Another way to check if a card is active is to try and use it to make a purchase.