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You need to activate your BMO bank card before you can use it for purchases, cash withdrawals, or online transactions. BMO offers three main ways to activate: online through bmo.com/activate, by phone, or at a BMO ATM. Choose the method that works best for you below.

▶ BMO Card Activate Here

If you prefer to activate your card by phone, BMO provides dedicated lines for credit and debit cards.
1

Call the correct activation number

For BMO credit cards, call 1-877-225-5266. For BMO debit and banking cards, call 1-800-363-9992. Both lines are available 24/7.
2

Follow the automated prompts

Select the card activation option from the main menu.
3

Provide your card details

Enter or speak your card number and other identifying information when asked.
4

Wait for confirmation

Listen for the confirmation message before ending the call.
Keep your card handy during the call. A representative may ask for additional verification if needed.
You can also activate your card by making a transaction at any BMO ATM.
1

Visit a BMO ATM

Find a BMO branch or ATM location near you using the BMO branch locator.
2

Insert your card

Insert the new card into the ATM and enter the temporary PIN provided in your card package.
3

Complete a transaction

Select Balance Inquiry or perform a small transaction to trigger activation.
4

Confirm your card works

Keep the receipt and test the card for future purchases.
Do not share your PIN with anyone. BMO will never ask for your full PIN over the phone or by email.
If you prefer to activate your card by phone, BMO provides dedicated lines for credit and debit cards.
1

Call the correct activation number

For BMO credit cards, call 1-877-225-5266. For BMO debit and banking cards, call 1-800-363-9992. Both lines are available 24/7.
2

Follow the automated prompts

Select the card activation option from the main menu.
3

Provide your card details

Enter or speak your card number and other identifying information when asked.
4

Wait for confirmation

Listen for the confirmation message before ending the call.
Keep your card handy during the call. A representative may ask for additional verification if needed.
You can also activate your card by making a transaction at any BMO ATM.
1

Visit a BMO ATM

Find a BMO branch or ATM location near you using the BMO branch locator.
2

Insert your card

Insert the new card into the ATM and enter the temporary PIN provided in your card package.
3

Complete a transaction

Select Balance Inquiry or perform a small transaction to trigger activation.
4

Confirm your card works

Keep the receipt and test the card for future purchases.
Do not share your PIN with anyone. BMO will never ask for your full PIN over the phone or by email.
If you prefer to activate your card by phone, BMO provides dedicated lines for credit and debit cards.
1

Call the correct activation number

For BMO credit cards, call 1-877-225-5266. For BMO debit and banking cards, call 1-800-363-9992. Both lines are available 24/7.
2

Follow the automated prompts

Select the card activation option from the main menu.
3

Provide your card details

Enter or speak your card number and other identifying information when asked.
4

Wait for confirmation

Listen for the confirmation message before ending the call.
Keep your card handy during the call. A representative may ask for additional verification if needed.
You can also activate your card by making a transaction at any BMO ATM.
1

Visit a BMO ATM

Find a BMO branch or ATM location near you using the BMO branch locator.
2

Insert your card

Insert the new card into the ATM and enter the temporary PIN provided in your card package.
3

Complete a transaction

Select Balance Inquiry or perform a small transaction to trigger activation.
4

Confirm your card works

Keep the receipt and test the card for future purchases.
Do not share your PIN with anyone. BMO will never ask for your full PIN over the phone or by email.