How to Check Credit Card Expiry Date?

It is a known fact that all credit cards come with an expiration date. They are not valid for your whole life. The validity period of a credit card usually lasts between 5 and 7 years. The date embossed on your credit card is important because it marks the last day you can use your card for transactions.

Despite knowing about expiration dates, many people often forget when their cards are about to expire. This can lead to unexpected situations. Imagine trying to make an online purchase only to find that your card has been declined because it is no longer valid. Such situations can be frustrating, especially if you depend on your credit card for everyday expenses or subscriptions.

How to Know When Your Credit Card Expires

Forgetting about a card’s expiration can also impact your credit score. If you’ve set up automatic payments on services linked to your expired card, you might miss payments, leading to late fees and potential damage to your credit history. It’s necessary to keep track of your credit card’s expiration date. By regularly checking your card and being proactive, you can ensure a smooth, uninterrupted payment process.

What Does Credit Card Expiry Date Mean?

The expiry date of a credit card is typically embossed on the front of the card. It is represented in the format of month and year (MM/YY). For example, if your card says “09/25,” it means your card will be valid until September 2025. The expiry date is important because it indicates the last month in which you can use your card for transactions. After the expiration date has passed, you will no longer be able to use the card for purchases or withdrawals until you receive a new one.

Why Should One Always Check Their Credit Card Expiry Date?

Avoiding Payment Issues: One of the main reasons to check your credit card expiry date is to avoid payment issues. If your card expires while you are trying to make a purchase, the transaction will be declined. Keeping an eye on the expiry date helps you be sure that your payments are not interrupted.
Card Replacement: Credit card companies usually send a new card automatically a few weeks before the expiration date. But it is still your responsibility to keep track of when your card expires. By checking the expiry date, you can receive the new card in time to avoid any trouble.
Protecting Your Credit Score: If a credit card expires and you forget to update your payment details with any services you subscribe to (like streaming or utility services), this could lead to late payments. Consistent late payments can harm your credit score, so it’s necessary to check the expiry date of your card.

Steps to Check Credit Card Expiry Date

Look at the Front of Your Card: The easiest way to check your credit card’s expiry date is to look at the front of the card itself. You will see a line that shows the month and year of expiry (MM/YY).
Check Your Bank Account App: Many Indian banks offer mobile banking apps where you can view your credit card details, including the expiry date. Simply log in to your banking app, navigate to the credit cards section, and select the card you want to check.
Visit the Bank’s Website: If you prefer using a computer, you can log in to your bank’s official website. Locate the credit card section in your account to view details, including the expiry date.
Contact Customer Service: If you have trouble locating your credit card expiry date, you can always call your bank’s customer service. They will be able to provide this information quickly.

What to Do When Your Card Is Near the Expiry Date?

Update Automatic Payments: If you have automatic payments linked to your credit card, such as utility bills, subscriptions, or memberships, update your payment details as soon as you receive your new card. This will help you avoid any missed payments due to an expired card.
Get Rid of Expired Cards: Once you receive your new card, discard the expired one. Use scissors to cut through the magnetic strip and chip to protect your personal information.
Monitor Your New Card: Once you have your new card, regularly check your statements so that everything is functioning correctly. Look out for any unauthorized charges and report them to your bank immediately.
Review Your Spending Habits: When your credit card expires, you should always check your spending habits. Review your finances to see if you need to make any changes to improve your budget.

Bottom Line

Checking the expiry date of your credit card should be done every once in a while. A regular card user will see it on their card whenever he is using it for making transactions. It will stay at the back of his mind whenever he takes out his card from his wallet, and how much time is left before he needs to apply for a new card.

Keep track of when your card expires to avoid declined transactions and maintain your payment schedule. Your credit card is important for your comfort. If you miss the expiry date, you might lose access to required services or face extra fees. Regularly checking your card helps you manage your finances and keeps your credit score safe. Don’t forget to update your payment details as soon as you receive a new card. This simple step can save you from potential headaches.

FAQs

How can I find my credit card’s expiry date?
You can find it by looking at the front of your card. The expiry date is usually right there. Alternatively, you can check your bank’s app, their website, or contact customer service for help.

What should I do with my old credit card after receiving the new one?
Once you have your new card, discard the old one. Shred it to destroy the magnetic strip and chip, preventing identity theft.

What if I don’t receive my new credit card before the old one expires?
If your new card doesn’t arrive on time, contact your bank immediately. They can help you get a replacement or advise you on the next steps to take.