Activating your new Green Dot debit card is extremely simple and can be done in 3 different ways: over the phone, online at greendot.com/activate or via the Green Dot iOS or Android mobile app. Our preferred activation method is the Green Dot mobile app because it allows you to fully setup online access with your smartphone so you can check your balance, add funds and manage your account on the go 24/7.
In this article we have created a step-by-step guide for each of the 3 card activation methods and even included a YouTube video of the Green Dot card activation via the Green Dot mobile app.
So if you already have a Green Dot starter card or have received a personalized card in the mail and you’re trying to activate it then go ahead and read our guide below so that you can get your card activated for immediate use!
How Do I Activate My Green Dot Card?
iOS App Activation
App activation is our preferred method since it allows you to get your online access fully setup which allows you to manage your Green Dot account on the go.
Firstly, you’ll need to download the Green Dot mobile banking app.
Once you have downloaded the app open it and on the main screen you will see an option to register a new card near the bottom of the screen.
Tap to register your card.
From this point you will need to enter your cards details including its full 16-digit card number, expiration date and 3-digit cvv code.
In the next step you’ll need to enter your personal information including name, address, phone number, email, social security number and date of birth. In this step you’ll also need to create a 4-digit pin.
In the next step you will need to confirm that your address is correct. The app will display the address you enter on screen and you just need to tap continue or re-enter the address if it is not correct. You need to make sure this is correct since Green Dot will be sending you a personalized card after you complete the registration process.
In the next step you will need to confirm your phone number by having the app send you a verification code. Wait to receive the text and enter the verification code you receive in the app.
In the final step you will need to choose a username and password for app login. Once you have a complete this step you’re finished and the app will display that your personalized card is on the way and you should receive it in the mail in 5-7 days.
After registering and activating your card you can use the app to add money on to your card, setup direct deposit, view all account activity and manage your account entirely from within the app 24/7 whenever you have WiFi or mobile service.
Green Dot iOS App Step-by-Step Activation Video
Online Activation
If you prefer to activate your card via a desktop computer instead of the app you’ll need to visit greendot.com/activate. From there the process is generally the same as activating through the app.
Enter your full card number, card expiration date, and cards cvv code and click next.
On the next screen you’ll need to enter your personal information including name, address, date of birth, social security number, phone number. You’ll also need to create a 4-digit pin.
In the next step you need to create a login and password so that you can manage your account online or login via the mobile app if you choose to download it later.
Once this is done you will be able to see the current balance available on your card. From there you can add funds and begin using your card immediately.
Phone Activation
For phone activation you will need to call (866) 795-7605 and follow the prompts. You will need your card on hand to activate using this method. The major drawback to activating your card this way is you will still need to signup for an online account in order to manage your card online or via the mobile app.
More About the Green Dot Visa & Mastercard Debit Card
Th Green Dot debit card is essentially a blend of a prepaid card and an online bank account, allowing you to load money onto the card and use it just like a traditional debit card. You can even setup direct deposit with your employer and get paid up to 2 days early! The Green Dot card does come with a monthly fee of $7.95 that is waived with at least $1,000 of spend in the previous month and a $4.95 fee for cash deposits (direct deposit and mobile deposit are free). There is also a $2.50 ATM fee for cash withdrawals, a $5 replacement card fee and 3% foreign transaction fee for transactions outside of the United States.
Once cool benefit of the Green Dot card is it offers unlimited 2% cashback, something you don’t typically see with debit cards.
Green Dot Card Customer Support
If you’re having trouble activating your card or need support for any other reason you can contact support by phone at (866) 795-7597.
Conclusion
The Green Dot debit card is a great alternative to traditional banks and the activation process is super simple. Once you follow the guide above and get your card registered it will be activated for immediate use. Just load funds and start enjoying the benefits of your new Visa or Mastercard debit card.
To read a full review of the Green Dot debit card you can check out Nerdwallet’s review.
