How to Renew Your Bank of America Card Before It Expires

How to renew your Bank of America card

Bank of America sends you a replacement card automatically about two to three weeks before your current card expires. The new card arrives by mail at the address on file with your account. You do not need to request it or take any action — the bank handles this on its own schedule.

Once the new card arrives, you will need to set up it before you can use it. Bank of America lets you set up through their mobile app, their website, or by calling the number on the back of the card. The set up process takes just a few minutes and confirms that you received the card and that it belongs to you.

Your old card will stop working on the expiration date printed on its face. Any recurring charges set up under the old card number — subscriptions, automatic bill payments, gym memberships — will need to be updated with the new card number. Your bank account itself does not change; only the card number and expiration date are new.

Key Takeaways

• Bank of America mails a replacement card automatically two to three weeks before expiration; you do not need to request one.
• set up your new card through the mobile app, website, or by calling the number printed on the card.
• Update any recurring charges or subscriptions with your new card number before the old card expires.
• Your old card stops working on its expiration date, but your account and routing number stay the same.
• If you do not receive a replacement card within a week of your expiration date, contact Bank of America to request one.

Activating your new card through the mobile app

Open the Bank of America mobile app and log in with your username and password. Tap the card you want to set up from your accounts list. You should see a prompt asking you to set up the card, or look for an "set up Card" button in the card details section.

The app will ask you to verify information — usually the last four digits of your Social Security number or the expiration date on the card itself. Once you confirm, the card is active and ready to use. You can start using it for purchases, ATM withdrawals, and online transactions right away.

Activating your new card on the Bank of America website

Log into your Bank of America account at bankofamerica.com. Navigate to your card account and look for an set up option in the card details or account settings. Click the set up link and follow the prompts to verify your identity.

The website process is similar to the app: you will confirm some personal information, and the card will be activated within seconds. You can then use the card when ready for any transaction.

Activating your new card by phone

Call the number printed on the back of your new card. A Bank of America representative or automated system will guide you through set up. You will need to verify your identity by providing information like your Social Security number or account PIN.

Phone set up typically takes less than five minutes. Once complete, your card is ready to use. This method is useful if you prefer speaking to someone or if you have questions about your account during the process.

Updating recurring charges and subscriptions

Before your old card expires, log into any accounts where you have set up automatic payments or subscriptions — streaming services, insurance, utilities, loan payments, or anything else that charges your card regularly. Update the card number and expiration date to match your new card.

If you miss updating a recurring charge, the payment will fail when the old card expires. The merchant may charge you a failed-payment fee, and your service might be interrupted. Updating these accounts takes only a few minutes per service and prevents interruptions and extra fees.

Some merchants allow you to update your card information online through your account settings. Others require you to call customer service. Check each service a week or two before your old card expires to give yourself time to make changes.

What to do if your replacement card does not arrive

If your expiration date is approaching and you have not received a replacement card, contact Bank of America right away. Call the number on the back of your current card or visit a local branch. The bank can reorder a card or, in some cases, issue a temporary card number you can use while you wait.

Replacement cards typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days of being ordered. If you need the card sooner, ask about expedited shipping options when you call. Some situations — travel, urgent expenses — may may have access to for faster delivery.

Understanding your new card number and expiration date

Your replacement card will have a new card number and a new expiration date, usually four years from the month it was issued. The new card number is different from your old one, which is why you need to update subscriptions and recurring charges. Your account number, routing number, and bank account itself do not change.

The security code on the back of the card (the three-digit CVV) will also be different. This code is required for online purchases and phone orders, so you will need to update it anywhere you have saved it for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my old card after the expiration date?

No. Your old card will be declined at any merchant or ATM after the expiration date passes. This is why updating recurring charges before that date is important — any automatic payments using the old card number will fail.

Do I need to destroy my old card?

Yes. Once your new card arrives and is activated, cut up or shred your old card to prevent fraud. Some people prefer to wait until the expiration date has passed, but destroying it sooner is safer.

Will my PIN change with my new card?

Your PIN stays the same unless you change it yourself. You can use the same PIN for ATM withdrawals and in-person transactions with your new card. If you want to change your PIN, you can do so through the mobile app, website, or at an ATM.

What if I have a debit card and a credit card with Bank of America?

Each card renews on its own schedule based on its own expiration date. You will receive replacement cards separately, and you will need to set up each one. Update recurring charges for both cards if you have them set up.

Can I request a card renewal early?

Bank of America does not typically issue replacement cards before the expiration date unless your card is damaged or lost. If your card is damaged, contact the bank and request a replacement. If it is lost, report it when ready and request a new card.