Can You Change Your Debit Card Number?

If you get a new debit card, the number only changes in some circumstances. Whether it expired, was lost or stolen, determines if your debit card number will stay the same or differ. Learn more about how these scenarios alter your number. 

Key Takeaways

• An expired card keeps its number. Your 16-digit card number stays the same on a routine renewal — only the expiration date and CVV change.

• A lost or stolen card gets a new number. If the card was lost, stolen or compromised, the bank issues an entirely new number, expiration date and CVV so no one can use the old one.

• Your account and routing numbers don't change. The card is just an access tool, so your underlying checking account stays the same unless your bank merges or is acquired.

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Will a Replacement Debit Card Have the Same Number?

If your old card expired or was damaged, and the bank is issuing a new one, the number will stay the same. However, key information on the card, such as the expiration date and CVV, will change. Changing these two aspects ensures extra security.

Although, if your old card was lost, stolen or you are a victim of identity theft, your number will change. To ensure no one could have access to your funds or bank account, banks alter all of the card’s information as a security measure.

Can I Request a New Debit Card Number?

Generally, you cannot request a new debit card without a valid reason. If you were a victim of identity theft or the card was stolen, this re-issuance will have brand new information.

Does My PIN Number Change With a New Debit Card?

If your card expires, your replacement debit card will not alter your old PIN code. That said, if you are getting a new card due to security risks, you can request to change your old code to a new one. 

However, some banks allow you to change your PIN code without having to get a new debit card. This can be done either by going to an ATM or calling your bank. It is a good idea to change your PIN code semi-annually in order to protect your account’s information.

If I Get a New Debit Card, Does My Account Number Change?

Your account and routing numbers associated with your checking account will not change if you get a card replacement. Typically, your account number stays the same indefinitely unless your bank merges, consolidates or acquires another financial institution. However, if this is the case, you will be given plenty of time to transition over to this new number and your bank will give you explicit instructions on how to do so. 

Does Getting a New Debit Card Affect Direct Deposit?

A new debit card will not affect your direct deposits since this transaction is tied to your bank account and not the debit card’s number. Direct deposits are a fully automated method that allows the payers to issue a transfer into the payee’s checking account. Therefore, when getting a new issuance of your card, will not alter this type of transaction. 

What To Do After Getting a New Debit Card Number

Activate Your New Card

There are several ways to activate your new card. When a new card is mailed there usually are instructions on how to activate your card. 

However, if you want someone to walk through these steps with you, call your respective bank to help assist you through the process. Although, some cards do not need activation and are ready to use straight away. Make sure to read the instructions that come with your card to know what steps you need to take next. 

Dispose of Your Old Card

This is a crucial step when receiving a new card. Make sure to cut your old card through the numbers and magnetic strip and dispose of these pieces in the trash. This is to ensure that no one has access to your information or debit card number. Additionally, by disposing of this card, you won’t be able to confuse it with the newly issued one. 

Change Auto Payments and Accounts

When you get a replacement card, some of its information has changed, such as its CVV and expiration date. Some banks push out the changes information to vendors, but this isn't always the case. Check all of your accounts to make sure they have the correct information. This can include subscriptions, payment apps, transportation apps and more. Additionally, when updating this information make sure to alter your auto-payments as well. 

Key Terms

• Debit card number (PAN) — The 16-digit primary account number on the front of your card, which stays the same on a routine renewal but changes after a loss or theft.

• CVV (card verification value) — The three-digit security code on the back of the card, which changes on every replacement because it's partly derived from the expiration date.

• Expiration date — The date the physical card stops working; it changes on every replacement, while the underlying account stays open.

• PIN (personal identification number) — The code you enter at ATMs and terminals, which carries over on a routine renewal and can be reset for security.

• Account number — Your permanent checking account identifier, separate from the card number and unchanged by a card replacement.

• Routing number — The nine-digit number identifying your bank, unaffected when you get a new card.

• Account-updater service — A card-network service that automatically sends your new card details to some participating merchants for recurring payments.

• Damaged-card replacement — A reissue for a worn or cracked card that typically keeps the same number, unlike a lost or stolen report.

Sources

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Lost or stolen debit card guidance

• FTC — Lost or Stolen Credit, ATM, and Debit Cards

• CFPB — What is a routing number?

Summary generated by AI, verified by MoneyLion editors