With credit card scams spreading like wildfire, card companies are now more careful than ever, adopting several security measures to protect their customers’ financial data. One of these security measures is sending you a new card on time. For the customers who wonder, “What to do when a Capital One card expires?”, you’ll find the answer in this article.
What to Do When a Capital One Card Expires
You don’t have to do anything when your Capital One card expires. The bank delivers you a brand new replacement card several weeks before expiration. You will find enclosed instructions on how to activate it.
Remember that you don’t have to wait for your previous card to expire before activating the new one. You must also update automatic payment accounts with your new card details to avoid missing any due dates. Capital One saves a list of your recurring merchants, which you can view in their website’s “Help Center” section.
When Does Your Capital One Card Expire
Your Capital One credit card expires the day after the end of the month mentioned on it. You can see the expiry month and year on the back of your card.
Capital One generally mails the new card to your registered address around four weeks before the current card’s last valid month.
Remember, only the physical card expires. Your account and associated benefits remain active and will simply switch to your new card.
Reasons for Card Expiration
Wear and Tear
Your credit card physically degrades over time. The magnetic strip may wear down or the chip could become damaged, making it difficult for you to make purchases or activate automatic payments. Regular replacement helps avoid these issues, ensuring your card works smoothly.
Card Security
With time, the risk of card fraud increases, which is why companies renew physical cards with updated security features. They serve as preventative measures, making your financial transactions more secure. Activating the new card promptly is necessary to keep your account safe.
Policy Updates
Card issuers frequently update services and features to improve customer experience. Card expiration allows customers new cards that comply with current policies. They also include any updates like adjusted credit limits or reward programs.
You should read the terms and conditions thoroughly before activating the new card. If there’s something you don’t understand, you can call or email Capital One for assistance.
Steps to Take When Your New Card Arrives
When you receive your new card, you’ll want to assure a smooth transition and keep your account safe. Here’s what you should do:
- Sign the back of your card as soon as you receive it. Remember to check the spelling of your name first.
- Activate your card online or by calling the number on the back of your card.
Activate Your Card Online
- Capital One mobile app: Click “Account & Feature Settings” in your “Profile” section. Then, you should select “Activate a Credit Card”. Follow the next steps and you’ll be able to use your new card as soon as you enter the CVV number.
- Desktop: Select “Activate Card” in the “I Want to…” section. Enter your CVV and start using your new card.
Steps to Take If Your New Card Does Not Arrive on Time
If your replacement card doesn’t arrive two weeks before expiration, here’s what you can do:
- Browse through your online account: Sometimes, updates regarding card shipment are provided in your online account. Review any messages or notifications.
- Contact the bank: Reach out to Capital One’s customer service. Also, check your mailing address. If the address is not accurate, your card delivery may get delayed.
What Happens If You Don’t Activate Your New Card
Here are some things that could happen if you do not activate your replacement card on time:
- Impact your credit score: Not activating your new card on time could disturb your credit utilization ratio and have a negative impact on your credit score. If you don’t activate your card on time, you might miss out on reward points and a chance to build your credit history.
- Missed payments: You won’t be able to pay bills and other recurring charges. Your credit report might also suffer if you fail to activate the replacement.
What To Do With Your Old Card
Once you receive your replacement card, you must immediately get rid of the expired card. Keep in mind that you might increase your chances of being exposed to fraud if you leave your old card lying around.
Here is what you should do:
- Plastic card: You could cut it into tiny pieces with scissors or a shredder. Make sure that you don’t leave the magnetic strip intact.
- Metal card: You can mail it back to Capital One to be discarded there. You will receive a return envelope that has already been stamped. You can enclose the expired card and pop it back in the mail.
Related Questions
Does CVV Change When the Credit Card Expires?
Yes, the CVV changes when your credit card expires. You can find it on the back of your new card. You must remember to update it with your recurring payment accounts as soon as you activate the replacement. Otherwise, you might miss due dates once the old CVV expires.
Can I Still Use Online Banking if My Credit Card is Expired?
Yes, you can still use online banking if your card is expired. You can continue checking balances, reviewing statements, and monitoring account activity. However, you won’t be able to use it to shop or pay bills.
Can I Use a Credit Card Without the Expiration Date?
No, you cannot use a Capital One credit card without the expiration date. It is a required detail for completing transactions. Merchants need it to verify your identity before processing payments. Also, it is used to determine whether you authorized a transaction.
Conclusion
Capital One sends you a replacement card around four weeks before your current card expires. You can activate it online or by calling the bank. As for the expired card, you can cut or shred it yourself or send it back to the bank. In case you don’t receive your new card on time, make sure you double check your address and call the bank to address the issue