If you find that your current credit card limit no longer matches your financial requirements, you may be eligible to request an increase. Commonwealth Bank allows primary cardholders to apply for a higher limit through their digital banking platforms, provided the account meets specific criteria. It is important to remember that any request is subject to a full credit assessment, where the bank reviews your current financial situation, including your income and existing debt commitments.
Before beginning an application, ensure you have a clear understanding of why you need the additional credit. Because a limit increase effectively functions as a new credit application, the bank will evaluate whether you can comfortably manage higher repayments. If you are a joint cardholder, or if the account has specific restrictions, you may need to contact the bank directly to discuss your options rather than applying through the app.
Credit Limit Increase Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Access Methods | CommBank App, NetBank |
| Processing Time | Assessment times vary; some outcomes are provided upon submission |
| Eligibility | Primary cardholder, minimum age, meets lending criteria |
| Key Requirements | Proof of income, details of current expenses and debts |
To increase a credit card limit an individual should:
- choose Credit card limit changes in Product requests - Settings in online banking
- tap Credit limit on your credit card in the mobile application
Troubleshooting Account Issues
MFA and Login Issues
If you cannot log into your account to submit the request, it may be due to a session timeout or a delay in receiving your multi-factor authentication (MFA) code. If the code does not arrive, check that your mobile number on file is current. If you remain locked out, try closing the app and restarting your device before attempting to log in again.
Browser or App Errors
If the request page fails to load, it is often caused by an outdated app version or a corrupted browser cache. Check the App Store or Google Play Store to ensure your banking app is updated to the latest version. If using a web browser, try clearing your cache or switching to a different browser to see if the form loads correctly.
Locked Account or Access Denied
If your account access is restricted, it may be due to security protocols triggered by multiple unsuccessful login attempts or account status changes. Do not continue trying to force entry. Contact the bank's support line directly, as you will need to verify your identity with a representative to unlock your profile safely.
Pro-Tip: Before applying for an increase, review your recent credit card statements to ensure you haven't missed any repayments. The bank assesses your history of responsible management, so ensuring your account is in good standing—and paying off any overdue balances—can demonstrate that you are a reliable borrower before they evaluate your request for more credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was my limit increase application declined?
If your application is declined, it is usually because the bank’s affordability assessment determined that the requested limit does not align with your current income and existing debt obligations. This is a protective measure to prevent over-extension. An application may also be unsuccessful if your credit history shows recent signs of financial stress, such as missed payments or multiple credit inquiries. If this happens, take time to manage your current debt, and consider reapplying only after your financial situation has improved, such as after a salary increase or paying down other loans.
Can I get a temporary limit increase for travel?
Most credit limit adjustments are processed as permanent changes to your account. Banks generally do not offer 'temporary' increases for specific purchases, such as holidays or large one-off expenses. If you need more funds for a specific purchase, you might consider pre-loading your credit card by transferring your own money onto the account, which effectively increases your available balance without needing a formal credit limit assessment. Check with the bank first to confirm their policy on pre-loaded funds.
How often can I apply for an increase?
While there is no strict rule preventing you from applying, submitting multiple applications in a short timeframe can negatively impact your credit file. Every formal application is recorded and can be viewed by other lenders as a potential sign of financial difficulty. If you have recently been declined, it is often better to wait at least six months before applying again. During this period, focus on paying your balance in full each month to build a positive payment history.
