Big changes are coming to the way we pay—especially for shoppers using contactless cards. For years, we’ve all gotten used to tapping our cards at the till, but starting March 19, 2025, the rules around contactless payments in the UK could look very different.
Let’s break down what’s changing, why it matters, and what shoppers need to know before the deadline hits.
Limits
Right now, you can use a contactless card to spend up to £100 per transaction. This limit was increased from £45 back in 2021. When contactless first launched in the UK in 2007, it started with just a £10 cap—so things have come a long way.
There’s also a cumulative limit to be aware of. Most cards have a restriction of either:
- £300 total in contactless payments, or
- No more than five consecutive contactless transactions
Once you hit that cap, you’ll be asked to enter your PIN for extra security.
Changes
From March 19, 2025, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is giving banks and payment providers the power to set their own contactless limits—as long as they have strong fraud protection systems in place.
This means the standard £100 limit could become a thing of the past. Some banks may raise it, others might keep it the same, and a few might even let you decide what your personal limit should be. If you want a lower limit—or no contactless use at all—you could have the option to set that up.
It’s important to note: this change is optional, not automatic. Banks can choose whether or not to offer new limits. And if they do, they must communicate it clearly to customers.
Flexibility
The FCA is also encouraging providers to give customers more control. That includes:
- Setting your own personal contactless limit
- Turning contactless payments off entirely
- Adjusting cumulative limits for security
This shift is designed to match the flexibility already seen with digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay, which currently don’t have any official transaction limits, thanks to their built-in security features like fingerprint or facial ID.
David Geale from the FCA explained the move by saying: “Contactless is people’s favoured way to pay. We want to make sure our rules provide flexibility for the future, and choice for both firms and consumers.”
Support
The change has been welcomed by business leaders too. Kate Nicholls, head of UKHospitality, said: “Making life easier for consumers is a positive for any hospitality and high street business… lifting the limit can mean quicker and easier experiences for consumers.”
And it’s true. Whether you’re buying a round of drinks, covering a full grocery shop, or paying for a taxi, not having to worry about hitting a limit could make life smoother.
Still, it’s not just about speed—security matters too. That’s why the FCA says these changes should encourage banks to boost fraud controls, so that any new flexibility doesn’t come at the cost of safety.
Timeline
Here’s what to expect as the rollout begins:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | FCA announces proposal to review limits |
| October 15, 2024 | Consultation on proposals closed |
| March 19, 2025 | New rules take effect—limits may start to vary |
| Post-March 2025 | Banks roll out changes at their discretion |
Even though the official rule change happens in March 2025, don’t expect instant updates. Most providers are likely to keep the £100 limit for now, but prepare to see new options appear gradually in your banking app or notifications.
What You Should Do
Here’s how to stay ahead of the changes:
- Check your bank’s app or website around March 2025
- Look for notifications about any updates to your contactless settings
- Decide if you want to customise your limit
- Stay alert for fraud prevention tips from your provider
Remember: your card won’t change automatically—and you’ll still be protected by your bank’s usual fraud policy.
As Jana Mackintosh of UK Finance puts it: “Any changes made in the future will be done carefully and ensure strong security and fraud controls remain in place.”
So whether you’re a contactless tapper, a chip-and-PIN traditionalist, or a digital wallet fan, one thing’s for sure: payment flexibility is growing, and shoppers are about to get more choice than ever before.
FAQs
When do contactless rules change?
The new rules start from March 19, 2025.
Will the £100 limit be removed?
It could be changed—banks will decide their own limits.
Can I set my own limit?
Yes, some banks may let you choose a custom contactless limit.
What happens after 5 taps?
You may be asked to enter your PIN after five taps or £300 total.
Is contactless payment safe?
Yes, with strong fraud controls, it’s still a secure method.