Go paper-free
Amend paper-free preferences for your statements and correspondence.
What is a credit limit?
Your credit limit is the maximum amount you can borrow on your credit card.
Your credit limit:
- Is an initial amount set when you apply for your card, but this can change over time.
- It’s usually based on your individual circumstances and credit score.
- Remember, it’s still up to you to only borrow what you can afford.
How a credit limit works
Your credit limit tells you exactly how much you’re allowed to borrow. To show you how a credit limit works, we’ve simplified the example below. For more detail, visit our page on how a credit card works.
Frequently asked questions
-
You can apply to increase or decrease your credit limit.
Increasing your credit limit.
To increase your limit, you’ll need to have at least six months payment history on your account, and you’ll have to go through an eligibility check, so approval isn’t guaranteed.
Think carefully before increasing your credit limit. Make sure that you’ll be able to make repayments if your circumstances change. And consider if there might be other options better suited to your borrowing needs.
Decreasing your credit limit.
You can usually request a credit limit decrease whenever you like. Decreasing could affect your credit score in the short term. The difference between the amount you’ve borrowed and the total amount of available credit will increase, this affects the calculation of your overall score.
To change your credit limit.
Increase your credit limit in our Mobile Banking app.
Increase or decrease your credit limit through Internet Banking. From your credit card account summary, select ‘More actions’, then ‘Manage credit limit’. Log in or register for Internet Banking.
If you don’t bank online, you’ll need to call us.
If we offer you a credit limit increase
From time to time, we might write to you offering a credit limit increase. You’ll have the option to accept or decline the offer, with at least 30 days’ notice. If you don’t accept it, the offer will simply expire – we won’t increase your credit limit without your consent. If you’d rather not be offered credit limit increases, you’ll need to call us to let us know.
-
You’ll find your credit limit on your credit card statement, whether you receive digital or printed copies.
If you log in to Internet Banking or our Mobile Banking app, you’ll also be able to see the credit limits of your different cards there.
-
Your credit limit may be reduced for a range of reasons – such as a change in the products or services your provider offers, or a change in law or regulation.
Some banks will decrease your credit limit, or even limit your ability to use your card, if they reasonably believe that there’s a significantly increased risk that you won't be able to repay what you owe.
If we ever do this, Bank of Scotland will always tell you as soon as possible afterwards and show you the amount you’re still able to spend on your statements on Internet Banking or the Mobile Banking app immediately.
A credit limit decrease can impact your overall available credit, which could negatively impact your credit score.
Understanding credit cards
Credit card basics
Our guides will help you understand the basics of credit cards and how to choose the best one for you.
Staying in control
Getting to know your credit card better will help you enjoy its benefits while staying out of financial difficulties. Read these guides to feel more in control of your card.
Looking for a card?
Our guides will help you understand the basics of credit cards and how to choose the best one for you.