Managing money often means juggling several payment due dates, which can be difficult for some borrowers. However, you may have an option to help address this problem: you may be able to change your credit card’s due date to better align with your budget or payday. That said, there may be certain limitations and factors to consider beforehand.
Let’s discuss how to change your credit card due date, potential benefits, what to consider and tips to stay on top of your new payment due date.
How to change your credit card due date
If you want to change your credit card due date, the exact steps you’d take will depend on your credit card issuer. If you’re unclear, contacting them may help you understand if it’s an option and, if so, how to get it done. Some credit card issuers, for instance, may require you to call the number on your credit card to change your payment due date.
In general, though, here are the steps that you’d take to change your payment due date:
- Log in to your credit card account or mobile app
- Navigate to the payment settings section
- Choose a new available due date (there may be some limitations as to which dates you may select)
- Confirm the change and check when it will take effect
Keep in mind that some credit card issuers may limit you to 1 payment due date change per 90 days. However, the change may not take effect right away. If you’re having trouble with your card payments, it’s a good idea to contact your credit card issuer to discuss your options.
Why you might want to change your due date
There are many reasons why you’d change your credit card due date, including:
- Aligning payments with your paycheck: This way, you may be sure that you’ll be able to cover your credit card payment each month
- Spreading out bills: If you happen to have several credit card bills due at once, or in short succession, you may wish to adjust 1 or more of those due dates to help spread out payments and give your bank account some relief
- Simplifying money management: While some may want to spread out payments, others may find it easier to pay their bills on a single day each month. That may help you avoid missed payments, which can harm your credit.
What to consider before changing your due date
Moving your credit card’s due date can be helpful, but it’s important to consider certain factors before making the move.
For example, you may want to verify how the change will impact your next or current billing cycle. You’ll need to continue making payments as usual until that change is official. Changing your due date to later in the month may increase your next payment. It’s worth asking about how your future payment will be impacted before changing your due date.
Finally, you should consider whether your new payment due date aligns with your usual cash flow. Given that you may be limited in how often you can change your payment due date, it likely makes more sense to prioritize long-term benefits.
