When you receive your new SmartCard, you must activate it to be able to use it. The information that is delivered with your SmartCard explains how to activate your SmartCard.
You can also find out how to activate your SmartCard here.
Once your SmartCard is activated and funds have been deposited into your SmartCard Account, you can start using it. Please note that your welfare payment is deposited into your SmartCard Account on the day your welfare payment is due.