What is a credit card expiration date?
A credit card’s expiration date is the two-digit month and two-digit year printed on the front or back of the card, indicating when the card will no longer be functional. For Capital One credit cards, it’s typically on the back next to the security code.
The card expires after the final day of the expiration month, and you’ll need to activate the new one your credit card issuer sends you in order to continue using the account. New cards are typically sent one month before the expiration date.
What you’ll learn:
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Credit cards generally expire after two to four years.
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Even though credit cards usually don’t work after their expiration date, the account is still active.
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Your credit card issuer will typically mail your new credit card ahead of the old card’s expiration date, so it’s a good idea to make sure the address on your account is current.
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You can usually activate your new credit card online, through an app or by phone.
What happens when a credit card expires?
Typically, credit cards don’t work after their expiration date, and online or in-store transactions will be declined. For example, if your credit card expiration date reads 03/27, it means the card won’t be usable after March 31, 2027. By April 1, you’ll need to activate the new card.
But even if your physical card has expired and you haven’t activated your new card, your account and credit card balance aren’t impacted. That means your payment due date and minimum payments are still the same.
What to do when your credit card expires
Here are a few steps to take if your credit card is set to expire soon or has recently expired:
Be on the lookout for your replacement card
Most credit card issuers automatically mail you a new card before the old one expires. If you’re a Capital One cardholder, you can expect to receive your new card around four weeks before your old one expires.
Ensuring your contact information and mailing address are up to date can help you avoid disruptions. Capital One cardholders can sign in to their accounts anytime to review and update their information.
Activate your new card
Your replacement credit card should come with instructions about how to activate it. In most cases, you can activate it using one of the following ways:
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Calling the activation number on the sticker on your new card
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Signing in to your online account
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Activating it through your card issuer’s app
With Capital One, all it takes is a few taps in the mobile app and your credit card will be ready to use. You can also activate your new Capital One card online.
Dispose of your expired card
If you have a plastic credit card, you can cut or shred it to protect the card number and card verification value (CVV).
Metal cards from Capital One can be mailed back for secure disposal. Just use the return envelope with prepaid postage that comes with your replacement card.
Update your card information for recurring and other online payments
Consider any recurring charges on your credit card and other online accounts or digital wallets where your credit card information is stored. You’ll want to update those accounts with your new card information before any automatic payments occur. Reviewing past statements can help you make a list of where you need to update your card information.
Why do credit cards expire?
Credit cards have expiration dates for several reasons:
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To provide new card technology: Credit card issuers are constantly updating and improving the functionality and security of their credit cards with new features.
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To allow for wear and tear: Credit cards may wear out over time. Plastic can break, metal gets scratched, numbers fade, and chips or magnetic strips can get damaged.
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To incorporate design updates: Issuers may update card designs or logos. Expiration dates allow them to keep the most recent version of their cards in cardholders’ hands.
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To prevent fraud: Credit card expiration dates are one verification factor that can help authenticate purchases. Because they’re updated regularly, fraudsters may not have access to the current expiration date. This can make it more difficult for criminals to commit credit card fraud by using a stolen card without this data point.
Credit card expiration date FAQ
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about credit card expiration dates:
When do credit cards expire?
Credit cards generally expire every two to four years. But how long a credit card lasts depends on the issuer.
How do debit card expiration dates work?
When your debit card’s expiration date is approaching, your bank will send out a replacement card to arrive before your current card expires.
Can you use a credit card the month it expires?
A credit card typically continues to work through the last day of the month indicated in its expiration date. But after that date, the card could be declined if you attempt to use it.
What is a credit card expiration date vs. the CVV?
A credit card’s expiration date is the two-digit month and two-digit year found on either the front or back of your credit card. The CVV is the three- or four-digit number printed on the front or back of your credit card that’s used for security purposes. You’ll often need both your card’s expiration date and CVV when making online purchases.
Key takeaways: Credit card expiration dates
Credit cards expire every few years. You’ll typically receive a new card in the mail from your credit card issuer ahead of the old card’s expiration date. And you can usually activate your new card by signing in to your account online, using your card issuer’s app or calling the activation number.
When your card’s expiration date is approaching, you may decide to see whether there’s another card that could be a good fit for you. If you’re interested in a possible upgrade, compare Capital One credit cards to find an option that meets your needs.
