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What is a credit card balance and how do you check it?

Checking your credit card balance regularly is one of the simplest ways to stay out of debt.

Credit cards have become increasingly popular to pay for online shopping, utility bills and other transactions. If you use a credit card responsibly, you can enjoy numerous benefits. Many prefer the convenience of tapping a card instead of carrying cash and enjoy the added benefits of credit card rewards and exclusive credit card offers like cashback and discounts.

For example, the HSBC Live+ Credit Card allows you to dine, shop and earn up to 10% cashback on purchases. 

But a credit card can be a double-edged sword, so it's wise not to overspend. The best way to stay in control is to watch your balance closely.

Here's what you'll learn:

What is a credit card balance?

Your credit card balance is the total amount you currently owe on your card. It goes up when you make purchases and down when you make payments.

A few things add to your balance:

  • Purchases
  • Balance transfers
  • Foreign exchange transactions
  • Fees and interest

Check your balance often. This helps you track your spending and make smarter buying decisions.

Looking for a new credit card or an upgrade? Compare our range of credit cards.

How to check your credit card balance

There are several easy ways to check your credit card due amount and available credit limit.

1. Online banking

Log on to HSBC Personal Internet Banking using your credentials. Select your credit card to view your statement. You'll see your credit card balance, minimum payment and due date.

2. Mobile banking

You can also check your credit card balance in a few taps with the HSBC India Mobile Banking App. It shows your current amount due, payment due date, available credit limit, minimum payment, and more.

3. Mobile SMS

Prefer not to log in? You can still get your balance sent to your phone. Subscribe to transaction alerts, and we'll text your registered number with your transactions and other key details.

Always read the messages you get from your bank.

4. Phone banking

You can check your balance and recent transactions through HSBC's 24-hour phone banking service. Just enter your account number or phone banking number when prompted.

Contact us for phone banking services.

5. Credit card statement

Your statement gives you a clear view of every transaction. It shows:

  • The date and amount of each purchase
  • Any previous due amount
  • Any interest charged
  • Your credit card balance
  • The amount payable

Read it carefully and report any transactions you don't recognise to the bank.

6. ATM

Another convenient way of finding out your credit card due and balance amount is to visit HSBC's automated teller machines. Insert your card, enter your PIN, and follow the steps on the machine. 

Explore: Types of credit cards

Ready to take control? Checking your balance takes seconds, and it keeps you on top of your spending and due dates. Pick a method that suits you – the mobile app, online banking, or a quick SMS – and make it a regular habit.

What does a negative balance on a credit card mean?

Usually your balance is positive, the amount you owe. But sometimes you'll see a credit card minus balance, marked with a minus sign or 'CR'. So what does a minus balance on a credit card mean?

A negative balance on a credit card means the bank owes you money. If your credit card balance is negative, you've paid more than you owe.

This happens for a few reasons:

  • You overpaid your total due amount.
  • You got a refund after paying the bill.
  • A reward, cashback, or fee reversal was credited to your account.

What happens if my credit card balance is negative?

There's no need to worry. A negative balance is your money, and you have a few options:

  • Spend it. Your next purchases use up the credit first.
  • Request a refund. You can ask the bank to send it to your account.
  • Leave it as is. The credit stays on your card and reduces your next bill.
If you've ever wondered what it means when your credit card balance is negative, it's good news: it's a balance in your favour, not a debt.

Takeaway: Why you should check your credit card balance

To sum up, checking your balance regularly is a small habit with big rewards. It helps you:

  • Pay your outstanding amount on time
  • Manage your money better
  • Make informed purchase decisions
  • Spot suspicious or fraudulent transactions quickly

Read more: What is a credit card interest rate?

HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card

With the HSBC Platinum Credit Card, you'll get complimentary fraud protection cover and lost card liability cover of up to INR300,000.

Read more: Credit card eligibility: What criteria and documents are needed?

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Disclaimer

This publication has been issued by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC), India, Incorporated in Hong Kong SAR with limited liability, for the information of its customers only. This publication does not constitute investment advice or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe to any product / investment. The information herein is derived from sources believed to be reliable and the concerned Information Provider(s) have duly authorized HSBC to use such information provided by them. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling the information, HSBC and the concerned Information Provider(s) do not guarantee, or make any representation or warranty and accept no responsibility or liability as to its accuracy or completeness and shall not be liable for damages arising out of any person's reliance upon this information or any action taken or not taken as a result of any material contained in the publication. Expressions of opinion are those of HSBC and the Information Provider(s) only and are subject to change without notice. HSBC has not independently verified any information provided by the Information Provider (s) or that has been derived from the sources believed to be reliable by HSBC. Opinions expressed herein do not have regard to specific investment objectives, financial situation and the particular needs of any specific person who may receive this publication. This document is for circulation in India only. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the prior written permission of HSBC. Any liability is accordingly expressly disclaimed by HSBC, its officers, directors and employees.