How to Repair a Warped Debit or Credit Card

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If you've run your card through the dryer a few times this article is for you!

Steps

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  1. The card can be repaired or replaced. [1] Try one or more of these methods first, then call the bank if the fix doesn't work.
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Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Ironing the card

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  1. Try using a cutting board as your flat surface.
  2. About a level 2 heat setting is appropriate. [2]
  3. Lay both flat on the very flat surface.
  4. That's the only part of the card that absolutely needs flattening. Don't flatten the numbers!
  5. [3]
  6. Is your card flat? If not, repeat steps until the swipe section is flat.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Using a hair dryer to flatten the card

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  1. Place your card on a flat surface that can handle being heated up. [4]
  2. When warmed up, bend the card in the direction it needs to go to flatten again. [5]
  3. Use the heavy item to hold it down.
  4. Remove the card and it should be flat again.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Can I get my card to work if the magnetic strip is too worn too scan?
    Community Answer
    It's likely that your card won't function again. Contact your bank for a new card. Until then, try putting a plastic grocery bag over the strip when you scan it through a payment machine.
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    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 16
  • Question
    I flattened the numbers on my card not knowing that it isn't okay to do. Is that bad?
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    Most cards no longer rely on raised numbers. All that matters is the magnetic strip on the back or the embedded chip. The only problem that may arise is if you need to type your number in at some point and can't read it. Just call the company and request a replacement card.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 9
  • Question
    My debit car is bent. How can I fix it?
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    Carefully bend it back flat, then place it under a heavy weight for a while. You may want to apply for a replacement card.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 9
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • Iron
      • Paper bag
      • Flat, melt-resistant surface

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.quora.com/I-bent-my-debit-card-where-it-says-my-name-will-it-still-work
      2. ↑ https://lifehacks.stackexchange.com/questions/7566/flatten-plastic-playing-cards
      3. ↑ https://lifehacks.stackexchange.com/questions/7566/flatten-plastic-playing-cards
      4. ↑ https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/7xogq9/one_way_to_uncurl_your_foils/
      5. ↑ https://www.reddit.com/r/magicTCG/comments/7xogq9/one_way_to_uncurl_your_foils/

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