Credit card expiration dates: Everything you need to know

Is it almost time for your credit card to expire? Wondering what happens when you finally reach the expiration date? Here’s a quick rundown of your credit card’s expiration, including what typically happens at Capital One, and some information to help the transition to your new credit card go smoothly. 

Key takeaways

• Credit cards generally expire after two to four years.

• Credit cards usually don’t work after their expiration date, but the account they’re attached to is still active.

• 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.

• You can usually activate your new credit card by signing in to your account online, using your card issuer’s app or calling the activation number.

A credit card’s expiration date is the two-digit month and two-digit year on the front or back of the card, which indicates when the card will no longer be functional. For Capital One credit cards, it’s typically on the back next to the security code. 

After the final day of the listed expiration month, the card will expire and you’ll need to activate the new one your credit card issuer sends you to continue accessing your line of credit. 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.

The expiration date isn’t the same as the card verification value (CVV), the three-digit number on the front or back of your credit card that’s often used for security purposes.

Typically, credit cards don’t work after their expiration date, and online or in-store transactions will be declined. Just keep in mind that even if your physical card has expired and you haven’t activated your new card, your credit card account is still active. An expired or inactive card won’t affect your balance, so you’re still required to make the minimum payments.

If your credit card is set to expire soon or has recently expired, here are a few things you should have on your to-do list:

• Be on the lookout for your replacement card. Most credit card issuers will automatically mail a new card before the old one expires. With this in mind, make sure your contact information and mailing address are up to date as your credit card expiration date approaches. If you’re a Capital One cardholder, you’ll start receiving reminder emails a few months before your credit card expires. You can also sign in to your account anytime to update your information.

• Activate your new card. Your replacement credit card should come with instructions about how to activate it. This usually involves calling the activation number or signing in to your account online or on an 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 CVV. If you have a metal credit card, it may be too thick to be cut by most scissors or home shredders. Metal cards from Capital One can be mailed back for secure disposal. Just use the return envelope that comes with your replacement credit card to mail back the expired card (postage included).

• Update your card information for recurring payments and other online payments. Consider any recurring charges that go to your credit card and other online accounts where you have your credit card information stored. You’ll want to update those accounts with your new expiration date and updated card information before any automatic payments occur. You can review past statements if you need help.

Credit cards have expiration dates for several reasons:

• To provide new card technology: Credit card issuers are constantly updating and improving the functionality and security of their credit cards with new features—like chips and tap-to-pay technology.

• To allow for wear and tear: Credit cards may wear out over time. For example, plastic can break, metal can get scratched up, numbers can fade and card chips can become damaged. 

• To help prevent credit card fraud: An expiration date may be needed to complete a transaction when the credit card isn’t physically present, like for an online order. So, if a fraudster has your credit card number but doesn’t have the expiration date, they may not be able to complete any fraudulent transactions.

• To incorporate design updates: Credit card companies may update the design of their cards or their logo from time to time. Expiration dates allow them to keep the most recent version of their cards in their cardholders’ hands.

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about credit card expiration dates:

Because of their expiration dates, credit cards get replaced every few years. Your credit card issuer will typically mail your new card 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, it may be a good time to consider an upgrade. Are there cards better suited for you? With Capital One’s card comparison tool, you can easily compare options.