Credit Card Expiration Dates: Why They Exist, and What to Do When Your Card Expires

Credit cards, just like a gallon of milk and a hairstyle from the '80s, have expiration dates.

Generally, a card is valid through the month identified in its expiration date. If the expiration is 07/27, for example, then the card may be used through July 2027.

However, expiration dates apply only to the physical card, not the credit card account. That means the account remains open, and any credit card rewards you’ve accrued with that card are still valid. The 16-digit card number you’ve become so familiar with remains the same, too.

Here’s what you need to know about credit card expiration dates.

Why credit cards have expiration dates

Fraud protection

Expiration dates provide some protection against credit card fraud. For transactions where the card isn't present, such as purchases online, by phone or through the mail, the expiration date provides an additional data point that can be checked to make sure the card information is valid. If your card number has been stolen but the thief doesn’t have the expiration date, they may not be able to make charges on the card.

» MORE: How to dispute fraudulent charges on your credit card

Card longevity

Credit cards get heavy use. They go in and out of our wallets as well as in and out of chip readers. That takes a toll on a fairly flimsy piece of plastic. The magnetic strip can get dirty or scratched; the card can crack and split. Credit cards simply don't last forever. Getting a fresh card from the issuer every few years prevents your card from being declined at checkout because of its old age.

Card upgrades

Credit card issuers make periodic updates to the technology that enables purchases and strengthens the card’s security. In the same way we update the software on our computers and phones, getting a new card gives us access to that new technology.

Credit card companies also occasionally change their branding. If a company has revamped its logo, branding, card design or even its name, expiration dates ensure those new elements eventually reach every card in the fleet.

A gentle reminder

Say you have a credit card that doesn’t get much use. Maybe you’ve relegated it to the junk drawer where everything goes to die. Around the expiration date, you’ll get a new card in the mail, which can remind you to use the card again. If more features or perks have been added to the card, the new card is the issuer's chance to market them to you.

» MORE: I have a credit card but never use it. Should I close it?

What to do when your credit card expires

Expect to receive a new card about a month before the old card’s expiration date. Contact your issuer if you haven’t received the replacement yet. It may have gotten lost or stolen, or you may have accidentally tossed it along with some junk mail.

Here’s what to do once you receive the new card.

Dispose of the expired card

Make sure to get rid of the card for good. Remember: The card number on the old and new cards is the same. Someone who finds your expired card could get access to a crucial piece of information about your account.

Activate the new card

Activating your card allows you to use it. The new card will come with a sticker that has activation instructions. It’s usually possible to activate a new card by logging in to your account online or calling the issuer.

» LEARN: What happens if you don’t activate your credit card?

Update credit card information for bills