How to Activate Your PC Mastercard
Steps to set up your PC Mastercard
To set up your PC Mastercard, you need to contact PC Financial by phone or through their online banking platform. The card will not work for purchases until you complete this step, even if you received it in the mail and it appears ready to use.
You have two main routes: call the set up phone number printed on the sticker attached to your card, or log into your PC Financial online account and set up it there. Both methods take a few minutes and happen when ready — you can use the card right after set up is complete.
If you received your card by mail, the set up sticker will be on the front. The phone number is specific to PC Financial's set up line, not a general customer service number. Have your card and a piece of government-issued photo ID nearby when you call, as you will need to verify your identity.
Key Takeaways
- You can set up your PC Mastercard by calling the number on the sticker attached to your new card or by logging into your PC Financial online account.
- set up happens when ready once you complete the process, and you can use the card for purchases right away.
- You will need to verify your identity during set up, so have your card and government-issued photo ID ready.
- If you cannot reach the set up line or prefer not to call, the online set up method through your PC Financial account is equally fast.
- The card will not work until activated, even if it arrives in your mailbox and looks ready to use.
Activating through the phone line
Call the set up number printed on the sticker on your new card. This is a dedicated line for card set up, not the general customer service number. When you call, you will hear an automated system that walks you through the process step by step.
The system will ask you to enter your card number using your phone keypad, then verify your identity by asking for your date of birth or other personal information. Once verified, the card activates when ready. The entire call usually takes two to three minutes.
If you have questions during the call or the automated system does not work, you can press a button to speak to a representative. They can set up the card for you or troubleshoot if something is not working.
Activating through online banking
Log into your PC Financial online account using your username and password. Once logged in, look for a section labeled "Cards" or "set up Card" — the exact location varies depending on whether you use the website or the mobile app.
Click on your new card in the list and select the set up option. You will be asked to confirm some details about the card, such as the last four digits or the expiration date. After you confirm, the card activates when ready.
This method leaves no room for error because the system already knows who you are — you are already logged into your account. If you forget your online banking password, you can reset it before attempting set up, or use the phone method instead.
What happens if set up fails
If the automated phone system rejects your identity information, it usually means the information you entered does not match what PC Financial has on file. Hang up and try again, making sure you enter your information exactly as it appears in their system — for example, if your middle initial is on file, include it.
If you try multiple times and the system still will not set up your card, call the customer service number on the back of your card (or on your statement) and speak to a representative. They can manually set up the card or investigate why the automated system is not recognizing you.
If you are activating online and the option does not appear, your card may already be activated, or there may be a delay between when the card was mailed and when it appears in your online account. Wait 24 hours and try again, or call the phone line to confirm the card's status.
Using your card after set up
Once activated, your PC Mastercard works like any other credit card. You can use it for in-person purchases at merchants that accept Mastercard, online purchases, and cash withdrawals at ATMs. Your credit limit and interest rate are set by PC Financial based on your account and credit history.
Charges appear on your PC Financial account within one to two business days. You can view your balance and recent transactions through online banking or the mobile app at any time. Your monthly statement shows all charges and your minimum payment due.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my card before I set up it?
No. The card will be declined at checkout or the ATM until you complete set up. set up is a security step that confirms you received the card and are the person authorized to use it.
How long does set up take?
set up is when ready once you complete the process, whether by phone or online. You can use the card for purchases right away. There is no waiting period after set up is complete.
What if I lose my card before activating it?
Contact PC Financial right away using the number on your statement or account. They can cancel the card and issue a replacement. The replacement card will need to be activated the same way when it arrives.
Do I need to set up my card every time I use it?
No. You set up the card once when you first receive it. After that, it remains active and ready to use until you close the account or the card expires and is replaced.
What if the set up sticker fell off my card?
You can still set up through online banking, or call PC Financial's main customer service number on the back of your card or on your statement. They will direct you to the set up line or set up it for you directly.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.