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Almost half of all Americans carry a balance on their credit card, month after month. If you’re among their ranks, you know that the combination of high prices and high credit card interest rates can make it challenging to pay that debt off in full.

Many cardholders have seen their interest rates creep up in recent years, in line with the Federal Reserve’s recent rate increases. That means interest payments are gobbling up a bigger share of credit card balances. And those credit card balances can be major. This kind of debt hit a staggering $1.12 trillion for the first quarter of 2024, according to data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

But the situation isn’t hopeless, however. If you’re one of the cardholders who can’t pay credit card debt in full, here are five steps you can take to address it.

Step 1: Check your Credit Card Interest Rate

If you haven’t carried a credit card balance before, you may not be aware of what interest rate your credit card is charging. But it’s important to know exactly how much you’re getting charged so if you need to, you can budget for interest expense as well as your purchases.

The average credit card interest rate for all new card offers was 24.84% in mid-2024. (Depending on what type of credit card you have, your credit score, and your credit history, you may have a higher or lower interest rate than the average.)

With interest rates this high, it can be a real financial setback to carry a balance for an extended length of time, making only the minimum credit card payment. You may find that you are only paying interest and making little headway in paying off what you actually spent.

Recommended: What Is a Charge Card

Step 2: Understand How Your Grace Period Works

If you pay your credit card statement balance in full by the due date, a credit card grace period will usually take effect for the next billing cycle. That means you won’t owe interest on new purchases until the due date for the next billing cycle. If you pay that statement balance in full by the next due date, the grace period will continue into the next cycle, and on and on.

But, if you make only the minimum payment or a partial payment on the full statement balance by the credit card due date, you’ll get charged interest on the remaining balance and lose your grace period for the next billing cycle. This means you’ll owe interest on any purchase immediately. Even if you go back to paying the full balance, your grace period may not renew for several more cycles, depending on the specific terms of your credit card.

If you’re in a position where you can’t pay credit card bills and must move to partial payments, make sure you’re aware of the additional interest expense you’ll incur on the remaining credit card balance. Try your best to stop making new purchases with that card since interest will be charged on those purchases immediately.

Step 3: Look at Changing Your Due Date

If you’re feeling overwhelmed because many of your bills are due at the same time, talk to your credit card company about changing your due date. You might be able to move your credit card due date to a day of the month that works better for your budget, so the payments you owe are a bit more staggered.

While this switch might not help immediately to pay down credit card debt, it could offer some relief in the long run.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Step 4: Explore Ways to Pay Off Your Balance Faster

You may find that with higher interest rates and inflationary spending, you need a more efficient way to pay off your credit card debt, such as by refinancing credit card debt. Luckily, there are some options for how to pay off credit card debt, though keep in mind the best way to pay off credit card debt will depend on your financial specifics.

Balance transfer credit cards that offer a limited time low or sometimes even 0% interest rate can help — especially if you think you can pay the balance in full during the promotional low-rate period.

Another option you might consider is applying for a low-interest personal loan to pay off credit card debt in full. This could help you secure a lower interest rate, and by consolidating your credit card debt, you’d have fewer due dates to keep track of. Keep in mind, however, that there are pros and cons of personal loans to pay off credit card debt.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

Step 5: Consider Using a Budgeting Tool

If you’re finding it hard to make your credit card payments, that can be a signal it’s time to take a close look at your spending, perhaps with the help of one of the many online budgeting tools available.

Personal finance tools can help you understand just how much your cost of living has risen in recent months and make it easier to flag places you can cut back. Some can help to pinpoint fees you may be paying unwittingly or the automatic payments you’re making on your credit card that could get trimmed. Cutting these costs can then make it easier to pay off credit card debt.

The Takeaway

If you’re struggling with a credit card balance you can’t pay off, taking steps to pay off credit card debt faster and budget smarter can help. These can involve understanding your rate, changing your payment due date, and other moves.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

What is a fast way to pay off credit card debt?

You might be able to use a balance-transfer credit card and pay down your debt during the 0% APR promotional period. Or you might consider securing a personal loan to pay off the debt. You would then pay off the personal loan, which could have a lower interest rate.

Can you change your credit card payment due date?

You may be able to change your payment due date. See if your card’s website or app allows this kind of shift, or contact customer service.

Do most Americans carry credit card debt?

According to recent data, approximately 49% of Americans carry credit card debt.

Photo credit: iStock/Sneksy

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Good dental health can be essential to your overall well-being, but the cost of dental work — even after dental insurance — can make it challenging to pay upfront. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average cost of a porcelain or ceramic crown is $1,213, while the cost of a root canal can range as high as $1,539 for a single session.

A dental credit card is a white-label version of a credit card intended to be used on dental care expenses. It is one way to cover these costs in smaller, more manageable installment payments. Although a credit card for dental work can serve as a useful financing tool, it’s also important to be mindful of the caveats of using credit for dental care.

What Is a Dental Credit Card?

A dental credit card is a credit card that’s designed specifically to pay for your out-of-pocket dental health care costs. These cards are typically offered in dental offices that accept the particular medical card it advertises as a form of payment.

Like a basic credit card, a dental credit card requires patients to undergo a credit check for qualification. The card’s use is limited to dental offices within the card issuer’s network for the purpose of financing your dental bills.

Dental care credit cards typically have high interest rates, even if they offer a temporary deferred interest period.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

How Do Dental Credit Cards Work?

Your dental provider’s office might mention a dental credit card as a payment option if you’re unable to cover the expense in one lump sum. Typically, the office facilitates the process of completing your application for credit approval, but it is not financing the cost directly. In other words, your dental office isn’t the lender.

Instead, credit for dental care is provided by a third-party credit card issuer. Similar to how a conventional credit card works, your application is reviewed by the issuer’s underwriting team, and your credit history and score are evaluated.

If you’re approved, the card issuer will send you a physical credit card that you can use for services at an in-network health care office up to your approved credit card limit. Your dental provider is paid in full by the card issuer, and you’ll repay the issuer through monthly payments, plus interest if you carry a balance.

Deferred Interest Periods on Dental Credit Cards

Some credit cards for dental work offer zero interest charges for a limited period, also called deferred interest. This option can be advantageous if you’re confident that you can successfully repay the full balance before the deferment period ends.

However, if there’s a remaining balance after the deferment period ends, interest charges that accrued throughout the deferment period are added to the principal balance that’s due. Additionally, the new higher balance continues to accrue interest charges at the dental credit card’s APR, or annual percentage rate.

Because of this, use medical credit cards for dental work cautiously, as it’s a high-interest financing option that can lead to higher medical debt if you’re unable to repay your dental expenses quickly.

Recommended: What Is a Charge Card

Choosing a Dental Credit Card

When applying for a credit card specifically for dental care expenses, make sure you ask about the card’s features, terms, annual percentage rate (APR), and how it calculates interest during and after any deferment period.

If you’re approved, ensure that your dental office provides you with a copy of your dental credit card’s disclosure agreement. Also pay attention to the agreed-upon amount for any dental services you receive so you can verify that the card was charged for the correct amount.

You’ll want to note the deferment dates for your card, if any, and the interest rate you’re offered. That way, you can make enough monthly payments to repay your balance in full before interest kicks in.

Paying for Dental Care If You Have Bad Credit

Getting approved for a dental care credit card might be challenging if you have bad credit. If you’re in a difficult position and need help paying for expensive dental work now, here are some options to explore:

•   Inquire about a low-fee payment plan. Even if your dental provider doesn’t typically offer payment plans, it’s worth asking. They might accommodate you.

•   Shop around with other dental providers. Prices vary across dental offices, so compare costs across a handful of affordable sources. You might consider a non-profit dental clinic or a dentistry school.

•   Seek help from a family member. Ask a relative if they’re willing to offer a low-interest loan for your dental care.

•   Explore local government programs. Some state and local governments offer low-cost dental care programs to residents.

Alternatives to Dental Credit Cards

If a dental credit card isn’t an option for you, there are a handful of other financing options to cover dental work, such as the cost of a root canal.

Credit Cards With 0% Interest Rates

Other types of credit cards, like a 0% APR card, are a good alternative to dental care credit cards. They offer a promotional period — sometimes from six months to 18 months — during which you don’t incur interest charges.

This kind of card may differ from deferred interest programs. With some promotional APR cards, interest only starts accruing on your outstanding balance after the promotional period ends. Still, the credit card rule applies to try to pay off your balance in full before the promotional period ends to avoid paying interest.

Payment Plans Through Your Provider

Some medical providers offer a payment plan at no additional cost or at a small installment fee. In this situation, you’re arranging low installment payments directly through your dental office until you’ve repaid your balance in full.

Not all dental offices offer this type of payment plan. But if yours does, it can work with you to create a custom monthly payment amount and due date that’s manageable for your finances.

Personal Loans

Compared to a dental credit card, personal loans might offer lower interest rates for qualified borrowers. A low-interest personal loan achieves the same result as a credit card for dental work in that you can chip away at your outstanding balance in small increments, plus interest.

Among the main differences: You’ll receive a lump-sum loan disbursement from your lender that can be used to pay your dental office upfront. Also, you may find that a personal loan has a lower interest rate than what a credit card would charge you.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Help From Relatives

Seeking financial assistance from a close relative can help you avoid dental care debt. When asking for help, clarify whether any available funds are a gift or need to be repaid.

If it’s the latter, discuss the repayment window and additional interest (if any). Also talk about expectations if you’re suddenly unable to make payments due to, say, an injury or job loss.

The Takeaway

Getting a credit card designed to pay for dental work can be useful if you’re faced with an urgent oral treatment or procedure and need fast financing. However, the high interest rates of credit cards for dental work compared to other financing options can make it a financially risky option.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

What credit score do I need to get a dental credit card?

Credit score requirements vary by credit card issuer, but generally, you’ll need at least fair credit. However, a higher score can help you qualify for more competitive interest rates.

Is a dental care credit card hard to get?

Dental care credit cards are commonly offered online or at your provider’s dental office, so applying for a card is typically straightforward. However, being approved for a dental credit card involves many factors, like your credit history, income, debt-to-income ratio, and other factors.

Should I pay for dental care with a credit card?

If you don’t have the cash flow to pay for your dental costs upfront, using a dental credit card helps you cover costs in small, monthly payments. That being said, doing so might cause you to incur high interest charges, so evaluate your financial situation and your options.

Can I get a dental loan with bad credit?

Dental loans for patients with bad credit are available, though they might come with high interest rates, low limits, or other restrictive factors.

Photo credit: iStock/zadveri

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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If you work hard amassing miles and points, it’s worthwhile to know that while some credit card rewards die with you, there are issuers who allow redemptions or transfers after death.

Here’s a closer look at what happens to credit card rewards when you die, as well as what steps you can take to avoid forfeiting your rewards.

What Are Credit Card Rewards?

Credit card rewards are a type of currency that can come in the form of credit card points, miles, or cash back rewards. They’re designed to incentivize cardholders to make eligible purchases on their rewards credit card.

As you make purchases and earn various credit card rewards, you can choose to hold onto the rewards in your account until you have enough to redeem toward a high-value purpose. Each rewards program lets cardholders redeem rewards in different ways, depending on its rules. Common redemption options include statement credits, travel bookings and reservations, special experiences, merchandise, gift cards, and more.

Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly

What Happens to Your Credit Card Rewards Upon Death?

Having a stockpile of credit card rewards after death might lead to a sticky situation for your surviving family. Akin to your credit card debt after death not passing on to your survivors in some states, some credit card rewards “die with you” and can’t be redeemed or transferred to your family or estate.

Conversely, some credit card issuers, like American Express, offer a limited period during which authorized trustees of your estate can redeem unused rewards. Certain programs that permit reward redemptions or transfers after death might require the outstanding account balance to be paid in full.

In other words, what happens to your credit card rewards after you pass on depends on the terms laid out in your rewards program agreement. Some rewards terms specifically state that rewards aren’t the property of the cardholder and can’t be transferred through inheritance.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit

What To Do With Credit Card Rewards if the Account Holder Dies

If you know that your deceased loved one amassed credit card points, miles, or cash back rewards, there are a few steps you can take to address it:

1.    Check on accounts and rewards balances. If your deceased loved one gave you access to their account before their death, log in to get an overview of their remaining rewards balances across all accounts. If you don’t have access to their accounts, proceed to the next step.

2.    Prepare paperwork. You’ll likely need to provide proof of the primary cardholder’s death, such as a copy of their death certificate. Additionally, you might need to provide the name and contact information of the authorized trustee, letter of testamentary, or other details.

3.    Contact the card issuer. You must inform the card issuer in the event of a primary cardholder’s death. Supply the necessary documentation you’ve gathered, and inquire about your options to redeem the rewards.

Generally, credit card companies offer at least one of a few options, though how a credit card works will vary by issuer. The rewards might be forfeited if they’re non-transferable or expire upon the cardholder’s death. Some credit card terms automatically convert the rewards into a statement credit, while other issuers allow rewards redemption or transfers to another existing, active account.

Ways You Can Avoid Forfeiting Your Credit Card Rewards

You’re ultimately at the mercy of a reward program’s user agreement in terms of what to do with credit card rewards after death. However, planning ahead can help you avoid relinquishing earned rewards.

Not Hoarding Your Points

To avoid facing a scenario in which your credit card rewards die with you, make an effort to redeem credit card points or miles on a rolling basis.

For example, at the end of each year, use credit card rewards to travel for less money or apply them to your account as a statement credit. Keep in mind that different redemption options have varying valuations, so look into which redemption strategy makes sense for your situation.

Choosing Cards With Favorable Death Terms

Although a particular program might offer enticing rewards — such as the chance to enjoy credit card bonuses — it might not be advantageous if the program has strict terms regarding a cardholder’s death.

American Express, for instance, has relatively lenient terms when dealing with the rewards balances of a deceased cardholder.

Recommended: How to Avoid Interest On a Credit Card

Using a Reward-Tracking Tool

If you have multiple rewards credit cards in your rotation, using a reward tracking app can help you and your surviving family organize and track your rewards. Apps like AwardWallet and MaxRewards can let you easily see all of your rewards in one view.

Naming a Beneficiary in Your Will

Although it’s not a foolproof way to avoid forfeiting your credit card rewards, adding a beneficiary to your will is a smart move. This way, if your card issuer allows rewards transfers or redemptions by authorized individuals, your beneficiary is formally named on your estate documents as your desired recipient.

The Takeaway

Since there’s no way to know when an accident or unforeseen health issue will result in your death, it’s best to be prepared. If possible, redeem earned credit card rewards in a timely manner so you can enjoy them in life. Or consider such steps as naming a beneficiary in your will or racking up rewards on a card with lenient transfer policies.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Can I transfer points from the account of a late family member?

Whether you’re allowed to transfer points from your deceased relative’s rewards credit card account depends on the card program’s rules. Some banks allow points transfers, while other programs state that points are non-transferable. Contact the card issuer’s customer support team to learn about its point transfer policy.

Can an authorized user use credit card rewards upon the death of the account owner?

It depends. Not all credit card rewards programs allow authorized users to use a primary cardholder’s earned rewards. Those that do might have restrictions on how and when rewards can be redeemed after a primary user’s death, if at all.

What happens to the miles when someone dies?

Miles earned by a deceased primary credit card rewards cardholder might be forfeited, transferred, or redeemed by the estate or surviving family, depending on the rewards program. Terms vary between card issuers, and even across travel rewards programs, so call the program’s support team to learn about its terms.

Can estates redeem points after death?

Some rewards credit cards allow estates to redeem points after the primary cardholder’s death. American Express, for example, allows estates to request points redemption by submitting a formal written request with documentation.

Photo credit: iStock/supatom

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Whether you’re interested in switching credit cards because you found one with better rewards or one with no annual fee, it can make sense to do so. Also called a credit card product change, some banks allow you to make a switch without much consequence.

But before doing so, it’s best to understand how changing credit cards works and how to switch credit cards properly.

What Is a Credit Card Product Change?

A credit card product change is where a cardholder switches from one credit card to another credit card offered by the same bank or issuer. Because each credit card offered by an issuer is referred to as a different product, a product change is simply switching credit cards.

In theory, switching credit cards within the same bank won’t affect your credit as you’re not applying for a new credit card. Typically, your credit limit will stay the same for your new card as it was for your previous card.

Recommended: Does Applying For a Credit Card Hurt Your Credit Score

How Does a Credit Card Product Change Work?

When you make a product change, you’re not canceling a credit card. Rather, you’re either switching to an equivalent credit card, upgrading to a card with more benefits, or downgrading to a card with fewer benefits. In many cases, your bank may send you targeted offers for different credit cards, and you may be able to switch to one of these credit cards.

Once you switch credit cards, you’ll no longer be able to use the credit card you previously had. You can start using the new credit card instead. Features and benefits will most likely differ, and in some cases, so too may your credit limit.

Recommended: What Is the Average Credit Card Limit

Rules for Credit Card Product Changes

When it comes to following the credit card rules, each credit card issuer will have its own guidelines regarding product changes. For instance, some won’t allow you to change to certain credit cards, while others may allow a product change only if you’re switching to a similar type of card.

In general, though, there are some rules that are usually the same across the board.

•   For one, cardholders can’t switch from a business credit card to a personal one and vice versa, since these are considered different classes of cards and may have different credit limits.

•   Additionally, issuers typically only let you change credit cards as long as they’re within the same family of cards, as this can impact how credit cards work. However, each issuer has a different definition of what that means.

For instance, if you have a travel rewards credit card and the bank offers two other cards that use the same travel portal to redeem points, all of those cards could be considered in the same family. Or, if you have a co-branded card with an airline, other co-branded cards with that airline may also count as within the same family of cards.

Unfortunately, it’s often not easy to find information about whether you can switch your specific credit card to another. Your best bet is to call your credit card issuer and ask them directly.

Recommended: Can You Buy Crypto With a Credit Card

Pros and Cons to Switching Credit Cards

There are certainly upsides to converting credit cards rather than closing out your account and starting over. However, there are downsides to take into account as well.

Guide to Switching Credit Cards

Switching credit cards can be a relative straightforward process, but it does involve contacting your bank or credit card issuer. Here are some best practices to keep in mind before making the switch.

Decide Which Card You Want

You want to make sure your new card will be a good fit for you. Before making moves to change your credit card, check your bank’s website to see what other products are currently on offer. In some cases, you may find that you’ll get upgrade offers in the mail or after logging into your bank account online.

Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Issuer

You’ll also want to contact your bank to ask whether you can switch to the card you’ve decided on. If you can get the credit card you want, ask the bank what else you’ll need to do before you can officially make the switch.

You’ll also want to ask about certain features and benefits you’ll receive if you do decide to change credit cards. Specifically, make sure to ask about the following:

•   Whether your credit limit will remain the same after switching cards

•   If you need to pay off the balance before switching

•   Whether you’ll be subject to a hard credit inquiry

•   Whether you can keep existing rewards you’ve earned with your current credit card

•   What your new APR will be

•   If you’re eligible for credit card bonuses with the new card

Learning these answers will help you to make an informed decision and avoid getting caught off guard after making the switch. You may even be able to negotiate for things like bonuses or perks that you may not have gotten otherwise.

Effects of a Product Change on Your Credit Score

It’s important to determine whether switching credit cards will have an adverse effect on your credit score. When it comes to your credit utilization, as long as you’ll have the same credit limit with your new card, you should be able to maintain it. This is unlike closing a credit card, where you’ll lose that credit limit, which could result in an increased credit utilization ratio and a negative impact to your credit score.

In some cases, your card issuer may require a hard credit pull before allowing you to switch credit cards, which could temporarily ding your credit score. Your issuer may make this request for a variety of reasons, including to ensure your credit profile is still good and to determine whether to continue offering you the same amount of credit (especially if you tend to max out your card). You’ll be asked permission before the hard inquiry is conducted, so you’ll know it’s coming.

Effects of a Product Change on Your Credit Card Rewards

Depending on what card you want to switch to, you may be able to keep your existing credit card rewards. For instance, if you’re switching to a credit card that has the same rewards structure or program, you’ll probably be able to keep the points or miles you’ve earned.

However, if you’re going from a travel rewards card to a cash back program, for instance, your bank may not allow you to keep your existing rewards. That means you’ll have to use up your rewards or forfeit them, though it may still be worth speaking with a customer representative to see what they can do.

If you want to get sign-up bonuses on a credit card that you plan on switching to, check with your bank to see whether you’re eligible. Some cards don’t allow bonuses for existing customers.

The Takeaway

Requesting a credit card product change can be an easy way to switch to a new credit card without going through the full application process. Before you make any moves, however, take the time to confirm whether or not converting credit cards will impact your credit and whether you’ll be able to keep the rewards you previously earned. After all, valuable credit card rewards probably aren’t something you want to lose out on.

Whether you're looking to build credit, apply for a new credit card, or save money with the cards you have, it's important to understand the options that are best for you. Learn more about credit cards by exploring this credit card guide.

FAQ

Does a product change reduce your credit score?

A credit card product change may affect your credit score if your issuer requires a hard credit inquiry to make the switch. This should only impact your score temporarily though.

How do I request a product change?

To switch credit cards, you’ll need to contact your bank or credit card issuer to determine whether you can switch the card you want. From there, it will inform you of the other steps you need to take.

What are the downsides of a credit card product change?

You may lose the rewards you’ve earned on your current card if you decide to switch credit cards. Your credit score could also be temporarily affected if your issuer conducts a hard credit check when you switch cards.

Photo credit: iStock/RgStudio

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