How to Request a New Account Number for Credit Cards

Credit card accounts all come with unique account numbers. This allows lenders to track borrowing behavior, locate your account when you send in an inquiry, and properly report your consumer information to the three major credit bureaus--TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. While some companies simply allow you to change this information, others require a significant breach of security before any account information is changed.

Instructions

1

Find your most recent account statement. Make sure you have some reason to change your account number. Changing this information must be handled with an account servicing representative, not a customer service representative.

2

Contact your creditor, ask for an account servicing representative and ask for a new account number. You will need to get a new credit card as well. Make sure your existing card remains active until the new card arrives and is activated.

3

File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you are a victim of identity theft or online fraud. See the Resource section for the complaint form. The FTC must respond within 30 days. They may request that you follow up with documents confirming the fraud--a credit report, bank statements or credit card statements showing unauthorized charges.

4

Contact your creditor after you file the FTC complaint form. Ask for a freeze on your accounts. Make sure to contact the creditor as soon as you learn of the unauthorized charges. If you wait too long, you may become liable for these charges.

5

Ask for a new account number and credit card once the FTC completes its investigation into identity fraud. You'll want to get new account numbers and cards for all accounts--not just the one affected.