How soon can I use my CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card after I buy it?
If you get your card from a CIBC Banking Centre
You can use your prepaid card once you’ve signed the back. Your PIN is enclosed in the package.
If you order your card online
Once your prepaid card arrives in the mail, you can use it after you’ve activated it and signed the back. When you get a new prepaid card in the mail, your PIN will be sent separately. To activate your card, call Prepaid Cardholder Services at Opens your phone app.1-855-887-3888 Opens your phone app. or visit cibc.com/prepaidcard.
How do I use a CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card?
When prompted, tap, insert or swipe your prepaid card at the merchant’s terminal. Then, if necessary, enter your PIN, or sign to authorize the transaction.
Note: if “prepaid” is not a payment option, choose “Chequing”, “Savings” or “Credit Card” – the money will be deducted from your prepaid card balance, not your other accounts.
How do I shop online with a CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card?
- Choose Visa as the card type
- Provide your prepaid card number and expiry date. Some online retailers require the 3-digit security code on the back of your card
- Enter your first and last name
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction
How do I change the PIN on my CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card?
To change your PIN, simply:
- Insert your card into any CIBC ATM.
- Select the “More” option, then “Change PIN” and follow the instructions.
You can also call Opens your phone app.1-855-887-3888 Opens your phone app. and follow the automated prompts for changing your PIN.
Your new PIN will be updated once you use your card to withdraw cash at an ATM or make a purchase using your PIN.
Note: If your first transaction is an in-store purchase, do not tap or swipe your card. You will be prompted to enter your PIN three times to update your card and complete your purchase.
How do I set up email or SMS alerts?
After you receive your card, visit cibc.com/prepaidcard and sign in or register, then follow the instructions for setting up your alerts.5
Can I use a CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card for bookings and reservations?
Yes, but some merchants may advise you to use a credit card instead.
Some merchants such as restaurants, salons, hotels, cruise lines and car rental agencies may place a hold on funds for the total amount of your purchase, plus up to an additional 20% (for tips or incidental charges). If the hold amount is higher than your prepaid card balance, the transaction may be declined.
How do I reload my CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card?
If you’re a CIBC client, sign on to CIBC Online Banking® or CIBC Mobile Banking®. From the drop-down next to the prepaid card, you want to load, select “Reload” and follow the instructions.
Non-CIBC clients can reload their card only at CIBC Banking Centres in Toronto Pearson Airport.
Can I buy or load a CIBC Smart™ Prepaid Visa* Card with cash, or with a debit or credit card?
CIBC clients can buy and load from an existing bank account, including a US $ account, or Personal Line of Credit. If you want to buy or load your prepaid card using cash, simply deposit the cash to your CIBC account and complete the purchase from that account.
If you are not a CIBC client, you can buy or load your prepaid card from a debit or credit card at CIBC Banking Centres in Toronto Pearson Airport.