Halifax has issued guidance for customers awaiting replacement debit cards, setting out expected delivery times and explaining the steps needed before contactless payments can be used.
The clarification followed an enquiry from a customer whose existing Visa debit card was due to expire at the end of June. In response, the bank outlined when replacement cards are typically sent and what customers should expect once a new card arrives.
According to Halifax, replacement cards are normally dispatched in advance of an existing card’s expiry date and should generally arrive within five working days. The bank also said customers should receive their new card before the old one expires.
Halifax Explains Replacement Card Delivery and Activation Process
The update emerged after a customer contacted Halifax through social media to ask when a replacement Visa debit card would be delivered. The customer explained that their current card was due to expire at the end of June and asked when they could expect the new card to arrive.
According to Halifax, replacement cards are usually sent out ahead of time and should arrive within five working days. The bank noted that, in some cases, delivery may take place closer to the expiry date of the existing card. Halifax stated that customers should receive the replacement card before their current card expires.
The customer also asked whether the contactless function on the replacement card would work immediately or require activation. Halifax confirmed that an additional step is necessary before contactless payments can be used.
According to the bank, customers must activate the new card first. Halifax said: “You’ll just need to activate your new card first before you can use contactless payments. Once it’s activated, you can use it as normal, including contactless.”
The bank explained that activation requires a Chip and PIN transaction. This can be completed by making a purchase in a shop or by using a cash machine and entering the card’s PIN. Once that process has been completed, the contactless feature becomes available.
Options Available if a Halifax Card Is Damaged, Lost or Stops Working
Halifax also outlined the options available to customers who need a replacement card because their existing one has been damaged or is no longer functioning correctly.
According to the bank, replacement cards can be ordered through its mobile banking app or via online banking services. Halifax said customers should receive the replacement card within five working days of placing the request.
Customers who prefer to speak directly with the bank can also request a replacement card by telephone. Halifax said replacement debit cards can be ordered by calling 0330 912 6218, while replacement credit cards can be requested on 0345 944 4555.
The bank stated that these phone lines operate from 8am to 6pm, seven days a week, although they are closed on bank holidays. Customers may also use these channels to arrange for a replacement card to be sent to them.
For situations involving lost or stolen cards, Halifax provides a separate contact number. According to the bank, customers should call 0800 015 1515 if their card has been lost or stolen. The guidance provides clarification on delivery times, activation requirements and replacement procedures for customers managing expiring, damaged or missing cards.
