Credit Cards Bill Payments

Last Updated : Feb. 1, 2024, 5:58 p.m.

Here we have a simpler explanation of making a credit card bill payment. Online payments are the most popular method today. You can use various options in this, like mobile banking, internet banking, and third-party apps. And the other one is the traditional offline method. It has some options too: physical bank, ATM and Mail. But understanding IMPS and NEFT is also important in this. IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) is for urgent payments that reflect instantly (24/7). It’s good for smaller amounts. Whereas NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) takes a few hours (usually within 2 hours) to reflect and is suitable for larger payments. Basically, you have many options to choose from depending on your convenience and urgency. Let’s discuss all of them.

How to Pay Credit Cards Bill?

• Internet banking
• NEFT/RTGS
• IMPS
• Auto debit
• Mobile wallets

Internet Banking

Making a credit card bill payment using your bank’s internet banking service is usually a quick and convenient process. Here’s a breakdown:

• Log in to your bank’s internet banking portal.
• Navigate to the “Bill Payments” section. This might be named differently depending on your bank, like “Payments” or “Funds Transfer.”
• Choose “Credit Card Bill Payment” or a similar option.
• Select “Pay Own Card” or similar if you’re paying your bill. Otherwise, choose “Pay Other’s Card” and enter their details.
• Select your credit card from the list (if you have multiple cards with the bank).
• Enter the payment amount. You can usually choose to pay the minimum due, statement balance, or any other amount.
• Choose your payment account. This can be your current account, savings account, or any other account linked to your internet banking.
• Review the details and confirm the payment.
• You might receive a confirmation message or email about the successful payment.

Charges

• Most banks don’t charge fees for credit card bill payments through their own internet banking.
• However, some banks might charge a small transaction fee for using a debit card from a different bank to pay your bill.

Does using the same bank for credit card and payment account help for speed?

Generally, no. Payments within the same bank usually happen quickly, regardless of whether it’s a credit card payment or any other transfer. However, some banks might offer additional features or faster processing for payments made within their own system. You can check with your bank for any such benefits.

NEFT/RTGS

NEFT and RTGS are still effective methods for credit card bill payments in 2024, but they might not be the best choice for everyone due to their specific characteristics. Here’s a breakdown:

• NEFT: Suitable for scheduled payments or larger amounts (no minimum limit). While it’s not instant, it usually settles within a few hours (typically within 2 hours) on all days.
• RTGS: Ideal for urgent payments or large amounts (minimum of ₹2 lakh). Offers real-time settlement on weekdays and limited hours on weekends/holidays.

Considerations for NEFT/RTGS:

• Not instant: Payment takes time to settle (NEFT: few hours, RTGS: real-time but with limitations).
• Charges: Some banks may charge fees for NEFT/RTGS transactions.
• Planning needed: Consider processing time to avoid late fees (initiate payment well before due date).

IMPS

IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) can certainly be relevant for credit card payments, but its usefulness depends on your specific needs and the way your bank handles it. Here’s a breakdown:

• Instantaneous: Payments are credited instantly (24/7), which is helpful if you need to clear your dues urgently to avoid late fees.
• Convenient: You can initiate payments through mobile banking apps or internet banking, offering easy access.
• Widely accepted: Most banks support IMPS for bill payments, including credit cards.
• Potentially no charges: Some banks might not charge fees for IMPS credit card payments within the same bank.

However, there are also some limitations to consider:

• Amount limits: Some banks might have lower transaction limits for IMPS compared to NEFT or RTGS, which may not be suitable for large payments.
• Not real-time crediting: While the payment itself is instant, the credit might not reflect in your card statement immediately. It typically takes up to a few hours, depending on your bank and the credit card issuer.
• Not all banks offer it: While growing in popularity, some banks might not yet offer IMPS for credit card payments.

How to make credit card payments using IMPS?

• Check if your bank supports IMPS for credit card payments: Look for this information on your bank’s website or app.
• Log in to your mobile banking app or internet banking portal .
• Navigate to the “Bill Payments” or “IMPS” section.
• Choose “Credit Card Bill Payment” or similar option.
• Select your credit card from the list.
• Enter the payment amount and beneficiary details (if required).
• Confirm the payment with your PIN or OTP.
• You’ll receive a confirmation message once the payment is initiated.

Remember: Even though IMPS is instant, the credit might take some time to reflect on your card statement. Always plan accordingly to avoid late fees.

Mobile Banking Apps for Credit Card Bill Payment

For credit card bill payments, several Indian banks excel with their user-friendly interfaces and robust features.

• HDFC Bank Mobile Banking App: View statements, make partial or full payments, and even set up auto-debit.
• ICICI Bank iMobile Pay: Credit card bills, track reward points, manage investments, and transfer funds between accounts.
• Kotak Mahindra Bank Mobile Banking App: Credit card payments with one-click options and bill reminders. You can even schedule recurring payments to avoid late fees.
• Axis Bank Mobile Banking App: Pay your best credit card bills quickly, view past transactions, and even link your credit card for instant payments at merchants.

Auto Debit

The process for setting up auto-debit varies depending on your bank and credit card issuer. However, the general steps are similar:

• Log in to your bank’s internet banking portal.
• Navigate to the “Bill Payments” or “Auto Debit” section.
• Select “Credit Card Bill Payment” or a similar option.
• Choose “Pay Own Card” or similar if you’re paying your own bill. Otherwise, choose “Pay Other’s Card” and enter their details.
• Select your credit card from the list.
• Select the “Auto Debit” or “Standing Instruction” option.
• Choose the payment date (usually your credit card due date).
• Choose the payment amount (minimum due, statement balance , or custom amount).
• Select the bank account you want to debit from.
• Review the details and confirm the set-up.
• You might receive a confirmation message or email about the successful auto-debit activation.

Checking if Auto-Debit is Working

• Monitor your bank account after the first scheduled auto-debit date to see if the payment was deducted.
• Review your credit card statement to ensure the payment was received.
• You can also check your internet banking portal for confirmation of successful auto-debit transactions.

Stopping Auto-Debit

• Follow the steps in your internet banking portal to modify or cancel your auto-debit instructions.
• Contact your bank’s customer service if you need assistance.
• Remember that it might take some time for the cancellation to take effect.

Conclusion

Paying your credit card bills has become more convenient than ever, thanks to the plethora of options available to consumers. The two primary methods, online and offline, cater to diverse preferences and urgencies.

The detailed breakdown of online payment methods, such as internet banking, NEFT/RTGS, IMPS, mobile wallets, and auto-debit, provides a comprehensive guide for users. Each method is scrutinized for its suitability, credit card charges (if any), and considerations.