When Does My Credit Card Expire and What Should I Do?

Credit card expiration dates are a standard feature designed to ensure the ongoing security and functionality of your payment cards. Understanding these dates is helpful for managing your finances and avoiding disruptions in card usage. While your credit card account itself generally remains active, the physical card has a limited lifespan for several reasons.

Finding Your Credit Card Expiration Date

You can find your credit card’s expiration date printed on the front or back of the card, often near the card number or your name. This date appears as MM/YY (e.g., 07/25). The card remains valid through the last day of the month indicated. For instance, a card showing an expiration of 11/26 will work until November 30, 2026.

What to Do When Your Card Expires

Credit card companies issue and mail a new card automatically before your current one expires, often several weeks in advance. This replacement card will have the same account number but a new expiration date and CVV. If you do not receive your new card two to four weeks before the expiration month, contact your card issuer directly. Activate the new card upon receipt, following your issuer’s instructions, which can often be done online or by phone.

Updating your card details for recurring payments, online subscriptions, and digital wallets is an important step after receiving a new card. Since the expiration date and CVV change, payments for services like streaming, utilities, or gym memberships may be declined if not updated. Many card issuers offer automatic account updater services that may update this information directly with merchants, though it is still wise to verify. Regularly reviewing your statements helps identify all services that need updating to prevent service interruptions.

Why Credit Cards Have Expiration Dates

Credit cards have expiration dates for security and functionality. One primary reason is enhanced security, as periodically issuing new cards with updated expiration dates and CVVs helps reduce the risk of fraud from compromised card information. This practice makes it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to use old card details.

Expiration dates also account for the physical wear and tear that credit cards endure over time. Constant use can damage the card’s magnetic stripe or chip, leading to functionality issues. Expiration dates allow card issuers to introduce new technologies or update card designs. This ensures cardholders receive the latest security features and payment innovations, like improved chip technology.