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Are Credit Card Late Fees Worth Fighting? A Complete Guide
by
JG Wentworth
•
June 17, 2025
•
6 min
If you’ve ever forgotten to make a credit card payment on time, you’re not alone. Life gets busy, and missing a due date happens. But when that oversight triggers a late fee, often around $30 or more, you might wonder if it’s worth the effort to get it waived. The short answer? It usually is. In this guide, we’ll explore when and how to fight a credit card late fee, what your chances are of success, and how to avoid them in the future.
What Are Credit Card Late Fees?
Credit card late fees are penalties charged when you fail to make at least the minimum payment by your due date. Under federal law, credit card issuers can charge up to $30 for a first-time late payment, and up to $41 for subsequent missed payments, provided those amounts don’t exceed your minimum payment due.
Late fees can seem small at first glance, but they add up, especially if they accompany interest charges, a potential APR hike, and a hit to your credit score.
Are Late Fees Legal?
Yes, credit card late fees are legal and regulated by the Credit CARD Act of 2009, which capped how much banks can charge for late payments and made the rules around disclosure more transparent. That said, just because they’re legal doesn’t mean they’re always fair or that you have to accept them.
When Should You Fight a Credit Card Late Fee?
Fighting a late fee is more likely to succeed if:
- It’s your first time missing a payment
- You have a long history of on-time payments
- The payment was only a day or two late
- There was a valid reason, like hospitalization or a billing error
- You recently changed billing addresses or banks
Even if none of those apply, it’s still worth contacting your credit card issuer. Many companies are willing to waive fees to maintain customer satisfaction, especially if you’ve been a loyal cardholder.
How to Ask for a Late Fee Waiver
Here’s how to maximize your chances of success:
- Call Customer Service
The fastest route is to call the number on the back of your card. Be polite, explain your situation, and ask if the fee can be removed as a courtesy.
Example script:
“Hi, I noticed a late fee on my account. I’ve been a customer for several years and usually pay on time. This was an honest mistake, and I’d really appreciate it if you could waive the fee.”
- Use Secure Messaging
Most card issuers offer secure messaging through their online portals. You can send a written request outlining your case in a calm, professional tone.
- Ask to Speak With a Supervisor
If the first person says no, don’t give up. Supervisors may have more flexibility in removing fees, especially if you escalate politely.
What Are Your Chances of Success?
Surprisingly high. According to a report from the U.S. PIRG Education Fund, about 90 percent of first-time late fees can be waived if you simply ask. Even if you’ve missed payments more than once, some issuers still offer goodwill adjustments.
Your chances improve if:
- You pay the overdue amount immediately
- You’re not carrying a large outstanding balance
- You remain calm and respectful during the request
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What Happens If You Don’t Fight the Fee?
If you let the late fee stand, here’s what you might face:
- Increased total balance: The fee adds to your balance and can start accruing interest if not paid promptly.
- Potential penalty APR: Some cards raise your interest rate after a late payment.
- Credit score impact: A single late payment of more than 30 days can significantly lower your credit score.
- Cascading costs: If you miss multiple payments, late fees can compound and become even harder to manage.
Can You Get Multiple Fees Waived?
Yes, but with limitations. Issuers are more lenient for first-time offenders. If you’re a repeat late-payer, you’ll need a stronger case or some proof of hardship. Some cards even offer automatic forgiveness for one late payment per year. Check your card’s terms and benefits to see if this applies to you.
How to Prevent Late Fees in the Future
Once you’ve addressed the current late fee, the next step is making sure it doesn’t happen again. Here are a few tactics:
- Set Up AutoPay
Enroll in automatic payments for at least the minimum due. Most banks let you link this to your checking account.
- Create Payment Reminders
Set calendar alerts or use your credit card issuer’s reminder tools to get notified ahead of your due date.
- Change Your Due Date
Many issuers allow you to choose your due date. Pick one that aligns with your payday or other bills to make budgeting easier.
- Keep an Emergency Fund
Even a small buffer in your checking account can help avoid missed payments when cash flow gets tight.
What If the Late Fee Was a Mistake?
Sometimes fees show up even when you didn’t actually pay late, like when a payment is processed after business hours or a glitch occurs. If you believe the fee is in error:
- Gather documentation, such as payment confirmations or screenshots
- Contact your issuer immediately
- Ask them to investigate and correct the mistake
Mistakes happen, and most reputable banks are willing to make it right if you can provide evidence.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Fighting?
Absolutely. Fighting a credit card late fee usually costs nothing but a few minutes of your time and can save you money, protect your credit score, and even prevent future fees. As long as you’re respectful and clear in your request, you’ve got little to lose and quite a bit to gain.
Whether you’re dealing with your first missed payment or have faced recurring challenges, knowing your rights and acting quickly can make all the difference.
Key Takeaways
- Credit card late fees are legal but often avoidable
- First-time offenders have a high chance of getting fees waived
- Calling customer service is usually the best approach
- Prevent future late fees with reminders, AutoPay, or due date changes
- Always check for errors and act fast to correct them
Being proactive with your credit card account doesn’t just help your wallet, it can also protect your financial reputation.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Such information or materials do not constitute and are not intended to provide legal, accounting, or tax advice and should not be relied on in that respect. We suggest that You consult an attorney, accountant, and/or financial advisor to answer any financial or legal questions.
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