What Should You Do With Expired Credit Cards?

Credit cards include expiration dates as a standard feature, serving several purposes. These dates are incorporated for security, to facilitate technology updates, and to manage wear and tear. An expiration date adds a layer of security for transactions where the physical card is not present, such as online or phone purchases, by requiring additional validation. Issuers also use expiration dates to periodically refresh card technology, ensuring cardholders benefit from the latest security features like enhanced EMV chips or contactless payment capabilities. Regular replacement helps ensure the card remains functional as physical materials degrade over time.

Receiving Your Replacement Card

Credit card issuers generally send new cards automatically before the old one expires. Most cardholders can expect to receive their replacement card approximately two to six weeks prior to the expiration month. The new card retains the same 16-digit account number but will feature an updated expiration date and a new Card Verification Value (CVV) or Card Verification Code (CVC).

If a replacement card does not arrive by the expected timeframe, contact the card issuer directly. This can confirm if the card was sent or if it was lost or stolen in transit. Verifying the mailing address on file with the issuer is also a good practice to prevent future delivery issues. Once the new card is received, activation is required before use. Activation can be completed by calling a toll-free number, logging into the issuer’s online banking portal, or using their mobile banking application.

Updating Your Payment Information

After receiving and activating a new credit card, updating payment information for recurring charges and saved card details is necessary. Some merchants and service providers use “account updater services” that automatically receive updated card information from card networks. These services aim to reduce payment disruptions by updating card details like expiration dates. However, not all merchants subscribe to these services, and even when they do, a new CVV or CVC will always require manual entry.

Manually update payment information for services such as streaming subscriptions, utility bills, gym memberships, online shopping accounts, and mobile applications where card details are stored. This involves logging into each account or contacting the service provider to input the new card details, including the updated expiration date and CVV. Failing to update this information can lead to declined transactions, service interruptions, or late payment fees. Maintaining a record of all services linked to automatic payments can simplify this process when a new card is issued.

Safely Disposing of the Physical Card

Properly disposing of an expired credit card prevents identity theft and fraud. Even an expired card contains sensitive personal and financial information, including your account number, name, and parts of the magnetic stripe or EMV chip. Therefore, render all identifiable information unreadable and the card unusable.

For plastic cards, effective disposal methods include shredding or cutting the card into multiple, small pieces. When cutting, slice through the magnetic stripe, EMV chip, account number, cardholder’s name, and the security code (CVV/CVC). A cross-cut shredder designed for credit cards provides high security by creating small, irregular pieces. For metal credit cards, which are difficult to destroy at home, contact the card issuer; many provide a prepaid envelope for secure disposal. After destruction, distributing the pieces into different trash receptacles adds an extra layer of security.