How to avoid late fees
Missing a payment can cost you money and hurt your credit score. These simple steps can help you pay on time, every time.
Key takeaways
- Autopay for the minimum keeps your account in good standing
- Set a phone reminder a few days before your due date
- Call your issuer before you miss a payment — they may waive the fee
- Paying at least the minimum on time protects your credit score
A late fee can show up fast. Miss a due date by even one day, and your card issuer may charge you. That fee can be $25 or more. And if you keep missing payments, your credit score can drop too.
The good news is that a few small habits can help you avoid this completely.
Set up autopay for at least the minimum
Most credit card issuers let you set up automatic payments. You can choose to pay the minimum, a fixed amount, or the full balance. Even setting it to just the minimum keeps your account in good standing. Log into your card's app or website and look for "autopay" or "automatic payments."
Just make sure your bank account has enough money to cover the payment on that day.
Set a phone reminder before your due date
Not everyone wants to use autopay. That is okay. Instead, set a phone alarm or calendar reminder a few days before your due date. Label it something like "pay credit card." This gives you time to move money around if you need to.
Know your due date
This sounds simple, but many people do not know their exact due date. Check your last statement or log into your account to find it. Some issuers let you change your due date to line up with your paycheck. Call the number on the back of your card and ask.
Ask for a grace period if you are in a tight spot
If you know you will be late, call your card issuer before the due date. Explain your situation. Some issuers will waive a late fee, especially if it is your first time. They may also let you move the due date that one month. It never hurts to ask.
Pay something, even if it is not the full amount
If you cannot pay the full balance, pay what you can. Paying at least the minimum by the due date avoids a late fee and protects your credit score. You can pay the rest later.
Track your spending so surprises do not catch you off guard
When you know roughly what you owe, you can plan ahead. Check your card balance once a week. Many apps make this easy and even send alerts when a payment is coming up.
Staying on top of payments does not have to be stressful. Small, simple steps can make a real difference over time.
Related FAQs
Common questions about this topic, answered simply.
How much is a typical credit card late fee?
Late fees vary by card issuer, but they are often around $25 to $40. Some cards charge less, especially cards designed for people building credit. Check your card agreement to see what your issuer charges.
Will one late payment hurt my credit score?
A payment that is fewer than 30 days late usually does not get reported to the credit bureaus, but you may still be charged a late fee. Once a payment is 30 or more days late, it can be reported and may lower your credit score. Paying as soon as possible limits the damage.
Can I get a late fee waived?
Yes, it is worth asking. Call the customer service number on the back of your card and politely explain what happened. Many issuers will waive a late fee once, especially if your account is otherwise in good standing. There is no guarantee, but many people have success with a simple phone call.
Is autopay safe to use?
Autopay is generally safe and widely used. Just make sure your linked bank account has enough funds before the payment date to avoid overdraft fees. You can also set autopay for just the minimum payment so you stay protected without worrying about your full balance being pulled at once.
What if I can only afford part of my credit card bill?
Pay at least the minimum amount due by your due date. This avoids a late fee and keeps your account in good standing. You will owe interest on the remaining balance, but your payment history, which is a big part of your credit score, stays protected.
Can I change my credit card due date?
Many card issuers allow you to change your due date, though not all do. Call the number on the back of your card or check the settings in your card's app. Aligning your due date with your paycheck can make it much easier to pay on time.
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