In Brief (TL;DR)
A Postepay with a demagnetized magnetic strip or a broken chip is unusable: in this article, we explain all the steps to follow to replace it and not lose your balance.
Discover the complete procedure for requesting a new one and transferring the remaining balance.
We will also look at the procedure for transferring the remaining balance from the old card to the new one.
The devil is in the details. 👇 Keep reading to discover the critical steps and practical tips to avoid mistakes.
In the age of digital payments, the prepaid card has become an extension of our hand, a bridge between tradition and innovation that combines the practicality of small daily purchases with the speed of online transactions. The Postepay, in particular, represents a symbol of this evolution for millions of Italians: born as a simple and accessible tool, it has transformed into a master key to the global market. But what happens when this indispensable tool stops working? A demagnetized Postepay or one with a damaged chip can seem like an insurmountable obstacle, a sudden interruption of our digital and physical routine. Fortunately, the solution is simpler than you might think and reflects the efficiency we expect from modern technology.
Dealing with a non-working Postepay is not just a practical matter, but also a cultural one. In an Italy that moves at two speeds, with a strong attachment to tradition yet projected towards the future, managing a technological mishap becomes a testing ground. The replacement procedure, designed to be quick and intuitive, shows how a historic institution like Poste Italiane has managed to adapt to the needs of a diverse audience, ranging from digital natives to those who cautiously approach new payment tools. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to navigate the replacement process, turning a potential inconvenience into a simple formality.
Common Causes of Damage: Why Your Postepay No Longer Works
Before diving into the replacement procedure, it’s helpful to understand why a card stops working. The most frequent causes are physical damage, such as deep scratches on the chip or magnetic strip, and demagnetization. The latter occurs when the card is exposed to magnetic fields generated by magnets, smartphones, speakers, or magnetic clasps on bags. Even simple wear and tear from prolonged use can compromise the readability of the data. Recognizing these signs is the first step: if the POS repeatedly rejects the transaction or the ATM fails to read the card, it’s very likely time to replace it. Attempting “DIY” remedies is not recommended, as they could worsen the situation.
The Replacement Procedure: All the Steps
Replacing a damaged Postepay is a standardized and accessible operation. The most direct and recommended way is to go in person to any post office. It is essential to bring the damaged card, a valid ID document, and your tax code (codice fiscale). The clerk at the counter will verify the cardholder’s identity, block the old card, and initiate the request for a new one. This step is crucial to ensure security and prevent fraudulent use. If the card has been lost or stolen, however, it is mandatory to also present a copy of the report filed with law enforcement.
Postepay Standard vs. Postepay Evolution
The procedure has slight differences depending on the card type. For a Postepay Standard, the replacement is generally done in real-time: the clerk provides a new card, with a new 16-digit number and a new PIN. The cost of the operation is about 5 euros. For the Postepay Evolution, which comes with an IBAN, the procedure is slightly different. You can also request a replacement by calling customer service. The new card, which will keep the same IBAN as the previous one, will be mailed free of charge to the cardholder’s address. The PIN, however, will remain unchanged, ensuring continuity of use. In this case as well, there is an issuance fee of 5 euros.
Transferring the Balance and Activating the New Card
One of the most common concerns is about the fate of the remaining balance. It is important to emphasize that the balance on the old card will not be lost. At the time of replacement, the amount is automatically transferred to the new Postepay. This process is usually very fast and can take up to 24 hours. Once you receive the new card, it must be activated before it can be used. Activation can be completed directly at the post office with the help of a clerk, or independently at any Postamat ATM, via the Postepay App, or the official website. For a Postepay Evolution received at home, activation is a mandatory step to be completed before you can use it.
Prevention is Better Than Cure: Tips for Your Card’s Longevity
Although replacement is a simple procedure, taking some precautions can significantly extend the life of your Postepay. It is advisable to keep the card in a dedicated wallet, avoiding direct contact with other cards, coins, or keys that could scratch it. It is crucial to keep it away from powerful magnetic sources, such as magnets and electronic devices, to prevent demagnetization. Another useful tip is to digitize your card, if possible, by linking it to digital wallets like Google Pay or Apple Pay. This not only reduces the physical wear and tear on the card but also offers an additional layer of security thanks to tokenization and biometric systems. Furthermore, frequent use of contactless payments limits physical insertion into the POS, reducing the risk of damage to the chip.
Conclusion
A demagnetized Postepay or one with a damaged chip is no longer an insurmountable setback, but a minor, easily solvable inconvenience. The replacement procedure developed by Poste Italiane is an example of how tradition and innovation can converge to offer an efficient, up-to-date service. By going to a post office with the necessary documents, you can get a new card and transfer the remaining balance quickly and securely. Whether it’s a Postepay Standard or a more advanced Postepay Evolution, the solution is within reach, demonstrating that even in the digital world, a human approach and clear procedures remain essential. By adopting simple precautions for its care, you can also ensure a longer lifespan, allowing you to continue enjoying the benefits this tool offers in everyday life without interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your Postepay is demagnetized or has a damaged chip, the only solution is to request a replacement. You can go to any post office with the damaged card, a valid ID, and your tax code (codice fiscale). Alternatively, for the Postepay Evolution, you can call the toll-free number 800.00.33.22 to start the process over the phone.
The cost to replace a damaged Postepay is 5 euros. This fee applies to both the Standard and Evolution models and allows you to receive a new, working card.
No, you will not lose your credit. The balance on the old, damaged card is automatically transferred to the new Postepay upon its activation. The operation is free and ensures you can continue using your funds.
Yes, when you replace a Postepay Evolution due to damage, the new card you receive will keep the same IBAN as the previous one. The PIN will also remain unchanged. However, the card number (the 16 digits), the expiration date, and the CVV2 code will change.
If you go to a post office, the new card can be given to you immediately and activated on the spot by the clerk. If you request the replacement through the call center, the card will be mailed to your home address. Once you receive it, you can activate it at a Postamat ATM, at a post office, or online via the website or the Postepay App.
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