Credit News and Advice

Why did my credit card drop my credit limit?

Credit card companies can reduce, or drop, your credit limit at any time for a number of reasons.

Maybe you were late with a payment, or you exceeded your available credit limit. Sometimes, credit card companies can drop your limit even if you are current with that card, but if you became late or overextended on another credit card or loan.

Although it is rare, credit cards may drop your credit line for no apparent reason at all if the credit card company is reorganizing its accounts. The bank may suddenly decide that a new, lower, limit is better suited to your credit risk.

Although a credit card bank should notify you in writing before reducing your credit line, they may not have to. If you notice a credit line reduction on your account, contact customer service and inquire as to why. Sometimes making a simple change such as updating the annual income the credit card company has on file for you can be enough to reinstate your full credit limit.