Finance

British regulator proposes scrapping limit on contactless card payments

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 10, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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British regulator proposes scrapping limit on contactless card payments
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LONDON (Reuters) -Contactless card payments in Britain could exceed a 100-pound ($135.35) limit under new proposals outlined by the markets regulator on Wednesday. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA

British regulator proposes scrapping limit on contactless card payments

LONDON (Reuters) -Contactless card payments in Britain could exceed a 100-pound ($135.35) limit under new proposals outlined by the markets regulator on Wednesday.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said it was proposing giving card providers the flexibility to decide the right limit for them and their customers, noting that people could benefit from more convenient larger payments.

The consultation, which will run until October 15, is one of around 50 measures the FCA outlined in a letter to the prime minister in January to support economic growth and prioritise digital solutions.

Many card providers already allow customers to adjust personal contactless limits or turn off contactless functionality on their card altogether, amid more well-established fraud controls, the FCA said.

"While we wouldn't expect to see immediate changes to limits by firms, they would have the flexibility to make payments more convenient for customers," said David Geale, the FCA's executive director of payments and digital finance.

"People are still protected; even with contactless, firms will refund your money if your card is used fraudulently."

($1 = 0.7388 pounds)

(Reporting by Kirstin RidleyEditing by Tomasz Janowski)

Key Takeaways

  • FCA proposes flexibility in contactless payment limits.
  • Consultation open until October 15.
  • Part of 50 measures to boost economic growth.
  • Card providers can adjust limits or disable contactless.
  • Fraud protection remains a priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the proposed change regarding contactless card payments?
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is proposing to remove the 100-pound limit on contactless card payments, allowing card providers to set their own limits.
How long will the consultation on this proposal last?
The consultation will run until October 15, as part of the FCA's broader measures to support economic growth.
What protections are in place for consumers using contactless payments?
Consumers are protected against fraudulent use of their cards, as firms will refund money if a card is used fraudulently.
What flexibility will card providers have under the new proposal?
Card providers will have the flexibility to decide the right contactless payment limit for their customers, potentially making payments more convenient.
What measures has the FCA suggested to support economic growth?
The FCA outlined around 50 measures in a letter to the prime minister, focusing on prioritizing digital solutions and enhancing payment systems.

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