Can you use one credit card to pay another? Don't be fooled by what people say. You'll be surprised to know the truth..

Credit card users often ask whether it's possible to pay a credit card bill from one card to another. Many such claims are seen on social media, but the reality is different. Direct card-to-card payments are not permitted in India. This rule was put in place to prevent an uncontrolled debt burden and ensure users can make payments safely.

However, this doesn't mean it's impossible. Some indirect but legitimate methods exist, such as balance transfers and cash advances. However, these methods carry fees, interest charges, and conditions. Therefore, they should only be used with complete information. We'll explain these methods one by one in simple terms below.

Balance Transfer: The Easiest and Most Valid Method

Balance transfers are the most common and secure way to pay credit card bills. In this way, your new card directly pays your balance to the old card company, and your debt is transferred to the new card. Key Benefits:

Low-interest rate offers
Promotional zero-interest period
Consolidation of debt
Many major banks and card companies specifically promote this feature because it allows customers to manage their debt more clearly.

Cash Advance: Possible, but Absolutely Not Recommended
With a cash advance, you withdraw cash from one credit card, deposit it into a bank account, and then use it to pay off another card. The problem is:

Interest accrues immediately

No grace period

Cash withdrawal fees are very high.

Debt can grow rapidly.
For this reason, it is considered an "emergency option," not a standard payment method.

Why don't direct card-to-card payments work?
Banking regulations in India clearly state that credit card payments must only be made through a bank account, NEFT, UPI, or net banking. Card-to-card payments are not acceptable because:

They increase a customer's total debt.

They don't repay the actual debt; they simply shift it.

They increase the risk in the system.

Bank loan structures can become weak.

This rule is necessary for both customer safety and banking stability.

Which options are completely ineffective?

Many people think they can transfer credit card bills from one card to another through wallets or UPI apps. But in reality:

Paytm, PhonePe, GPay - do not offer direct card-to-card payments.

Many banks have also restricted wallet loading.

UPI payments from credit cards are also limited

So this method is ineffective.

What to do if you're short on funds? Choose the right option

If you're short on funds and need to pay your card bill, the best option is to look for balance transfer offers and use them to transfer your balance to a card with lower interest rates. What not to do:

Paying bills with a cash advance
Keeping the card limit above 90% for the entire month
Repeatedly shifting debt
These mistakes can damage your credit score.

Why is this risky in the eyes of banks?

Banks determine each customer's risk level based on "loan type + payment habits." If a customer pays bills from one card to another, frequently transfers balances, or takes cash advances, the bank considers them a "high-risk user." The consequences are that the card limit may be reduced, new cards may not be available, and the interest rate may increase.

Does balance transfer harm your credit score?

No, if you make timely repayments. However, if you delay paying your bills even after the balance transfer, your score will drop.

Conclusion
Directly transferring bills from one credit card to another is not possible in India, nor do banks allow it. Nevertheless, balance transfers are a legitimate and safe way to manage your debt easily. However, methods like cash advances prove detrimental because they rapidly increase interest, charges, and debt burden. Most importantly, if you pay your card bills on time, use your limit wisely, and avoid wrongdoing, your credit score and financial health will always be protected.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Zee Business. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.