What happens if I exceed my credit card limit?

Exceeding your credit card limit can have various consequences, including financial penalties and a negative impact on your credit score. Here's what typically happens if you exceed your credit card limit:

1. Overlimit Fee: Many credit card issuers charge an overlimit fee if you exceed your credit limit. This fee can vary from bank to bank but is usually a fixed amount or a percentage of the overlimit amount. It will be added to your credit card balance.

2. Temporary Block: Some credit card issuers may temporarily block your card's usage if you exceed your credit limit. This means you won't be able to make additional purchases until you bring the balance back below the limit.

3. Negative Impact on Credit Score: Exceeding your credit limit can negatively impact your credit score. Your credit utilization ratio, which is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits, is an important factor in your credit score. When you exceed your limit, your credit utilization ratio increases, which can lower your credit score.

4. Interest Charges: You'll be charged interest on the amount you've exceeded your credit limit by, in addition to any overlimit fees. Interest rates on the excess amount are typically higher than the regular purchase APR.

To address the situation if you've exceeded your credit limit:

1. Make a Payment: The quickest way to bring your balance back below the limit is to make a payment immediately. Pay at least the amount necessary to cover the excess and any overlimit fees.

2. Contact the Bank: If you're unable to make an immediate payment or if you believe there's been a mistake, contact your credit card issuer. They may be able to provide a temporary increase in your credit limit or offer assistance in resolving the issue.

3. Monitor Your Statements: After making a payment or resolving the issue, carefully monitor your credit card statements to ensure that the overlimit situation has been corrected and that no additional overlimit fees or charges are applied.

4. Manage Your Credit: Going forward, it's essential to manage your credit card usage responsibly to avoid exceeding your credit limit. Monitor your available credit, set spending limits for yourself, and keep track of your transactions.

It's crucial to be proactive in addressing an overlimit situation to minimize its impact on your finances and credit score. Regularly reviewing your credit card statements and keeping your spending within your credit limit are good practices for responsible credit card management.