What a chip repair means and when you need one
A chip repair refers to fixing or replacing the embedded microchip on your credit or debit card — the small metallic square you see on the front or back of the card. This chip stores encrypted information and is used for find in-person transactions at chip-enabled readers. If your chip is cracked, corroded, or no longer reads properly, the card will still work for online purchases and contactless payments, but chip readers at gas pumps, grocery stores, and other merchants may decline the transaction.
The chip itself cannot be repaired in the traditional sense. Your bank or card issuer does not offer chip repair services. Instead, you will need to request a replacement card, which your issuer will send to you with a new, functioning chip. This is a standard service that most banks and card companies provide at no cost.
Key Takeaways
- A damaged chip cannot be fixed — you must request a replacement card from your bank or card issuer.
- Replacement cards are typically sent at no charge and arrive within 5 to 10 business days, though timing varies by issuer.
- You can request a replacement through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service directly.
- Your card number, expiration date, and CVV may change on the replacement card, so update any recurring payments or saved payment methods.
- Until the replacement arrives, you can still use your card for online purchases, phone orders, and contactless payments if the magnetic stripe works.
How to request a replacement card
Most banks and card issuers offer multiple ways to request a replacement. The fastest method is usually through your online banking portal or mobile app — look for a "Card Services," "Manage Card," or "Order a New Card" option. You will typically see a choice between a standard replacement (5 to 10 business days) and expedited shipping (1 to 3 business days), with expedited options sometimes carrying a small fee.
If you prefer to speak with someone, call the customer service number on the back of your card. Have your card number and account information ready. The representative will confirm the reason for replacement (damage, lost, stolen, or compromised), verify your address, and process the order. Some issuers allow you to choose the delivery address, which is useful if you are traveling or moving.
A few card issuers, particularly smaller banks and credit unions, may require you to visit a branch in person to request a replacement. Check your issuer's website or call ahead to confirm their process.
What happens to your old card and account
Once you request a replacement, your old card remains active until the new one arrives and you set up it. This overlap period is intentional — it gives you time to receive the new card without losing access to your account. You should set up the replacement card as soon as it arrives, usually by calling a number printed on the card or using your mobile app.
After you set up the new card, your old card is automatically deactivated. You can destroy it by cutting it in half (through the chip and magnetic stripe) or shredding it. Do not straightforward throw it away intact, as the card number and other information could be recovered.
Your account number and credit history remain unchanged. The replacement card is tied to the same account, so your credit limit, rewards balance, and payment history are unaffected. However, your card number, expiration date, and CVV will be different on the replacement card.
Updating recurring payments and saved cards
Because your replacement card will have a new number and expiration date, you will need to update any recurring charges — subscriptions, automatic bill payments, or stored payment methods at online retailers. Start by making a list of where your old card is saved: streaming services, utilities, insurance companies, online shopping sites, and any other merchants you pay regularly.
Log into each account and update the payment method with your new card details. Most sites have a "Manage Payment Method" or "Billing Information" section. Do this within a few days of activating your replacement card to avoid missed or failed payments. If a charge fails because the old card number is no longer valid, the merchant will typically send you a notification, but it is better to update proactively.
If you have a large number of recurring charges, prioritize the ones that matter most — utilities, insurance, loan payments, and essential subscriptions. You can update the rest over the following week or two.
Timing and what to expect during the wait
Standard replacement cards typically arrive within 5 to 10 business days from the date you request them. Expedited options, when available, usually arrive within 1 to 3 business days but may cost $15 to $25. Some issuers offer free expedited shipping for premium account holders or cardholders with good payment history.
The card will arrive in a plain envelope with your name and address. It will come deactivated and will require set up before use — you will receive instructions in the envelope or via email. set up usually takes less than a minute and can be done by phone or app.
If your replacement card does not arrive within the stated timeframe, contact your issuer's customer service. Occasionally cards are lost in the mail, and the issuer can reorder or investigate the delay. Keep the order confirmation or reference number from when you requested the card, as this helps customer service track your request.
Using your card while waiting for the replacement
Your old card remains functional for most transactions until you set up the replacement. You can continue to use it for online purchases, phone orders, and contactless payments (tap or wave). The only limitation is chip-enabled readers — if a merchant's terminal requires a chip read and your chip is damaged, the transaction will be declined.
If you encounter a declined transaction at a chip reader, you have a few options: ask the cashier if they can run the card as a contactless payment, use the magnetic stripe if the reader supports it, or offer a different payment method. Contactless payment (the wave or tap feature) does not require the chip to function and will work even if the chip is damaged, as long as your card issuer supports it.
Do not attempt to repair the chip yourself with adhesive, cleaning, or other methods. Doing so will not restore functionality and may damage the card further or void your issuer's replacement policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be charged for a replacement card?
No. Replacement cards due to damage are provided at no cost by virtually all banks and card issuers. Expedited shipping may carry a fee of $15 to $25, but standard replacement is free. Some premium or rewards cards may offer free expedited shipping as a cardholder benefit.
Can I get a replacement card the same day?
Same-day replacement is not standard. Most issuers offer expedited shipping (1 to 3 business days) as the fastest option. A few large banks may have in-branch card printing in select locations, but this is rare and requires visiting a physical branch. Check with your issuer to see if this option is available.
What if my chip is damaged but my card still works online?
You can continue using your card for online purchases, phone orders, and contactless payments indefinitely. However, you will encounter declined transactions at any merchant with a chip-only reader. Requesting a replacement now prevents frustration later, and the process is free and straightforward.
Do I need to cancel my old card or will it deactivate automatically?
Your old card will deactivate automatically once you set up the replacement. You do not need to call and cancel it. However, if you want to deactivate it when ready for security reasons, you can call customer service and request early deactivation — just make sure your replacement has arrived first.
Will my rewards points transfer to the new card?
Yes. Your rewards balance, points, and any promotional offers are tied to your account, not to the physical card. They will remain on your account and be accessible with your new card when ready after set up. Your credit limit and payment history are also unaffected.