Change your payment method directly in your account settings
Log into Netflix on a web browser, go to your account settings, and select "Billing" or "Payment info" depending on your Netflix plan type. You'll see your current payment method listed. Click "Update payment method" or the edit icon next to it, then enter your new card details, PayPal account, or other supported payment option. Netflix will save the change immediately, and your next billing charge will use the new method.
If you're on a mobile app, you may not see the payment option in the app itself — Netflix often requires you to manage billing through their website instead. Open a web browser, sign in to your Netflix account, and follow the same steps above.
The change takes effect right away. If your billing date is coming up soon, Netflix will charge the new payment method on your regular schedule. You don't need to cancel and restart your subscription.
Key Takeaways
- Payment method changes happen in your Netflix account settings under "Billing" or "Payment info," not in the mobile app.
- Netflix accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and in some regions gift cards or mobile carrier billing.
- Your new payment method takes effect immediately and will be used for your next scheduled charge.
- If your old payment method fails, Netflix will try the new one on your next billing date without interrupting your service.
- You can save multiple payment methods and choose which one Netflix uses, or delete old methods you no longer need.
What payment methods Netflix accepts
Netflix takes most major credit and debit cards — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover in the United States. You can also link a PayPal account, which is useful if you want to keep your card details off Netflix's servers or if you're using PayPal's buyer protection.
In some regions, Netflix also accepts payment through your mobile carrier (like Verizon or T-Mobile billing), Google Play credit, or iTunes gift cards. The available options depend on your country and which Netflix plan you're on. Check your payment settings to see what's offered in your area.
Netflix does not accept bank transfers, wire transfers, or checks. If you want to pay without a card, PayPal is your best option.
Why you might need to update your payment method
The most common reason is that your card expired or your bank issued you a new one with a different number. Netflix will send you an email if a charge fails, asking you to update your payment information. If you don't, your account will eventually suspend until you add a working payment method.
You might also want to switch to a different card to consolidate billing, use a rewards card, or move to PayPal for privacy. Some people change payment methods when they share an account and want to split costs — one person can pay with their card one month, and another person can update it to theirs the next month.
If you're canceling a card or closing a bank account, update Netflix before the card stops working. This prevents your service from interrupting and keeps Netflix from charging a declined card repeatedly.
Steps to update your payment method on a computer
- Go to netflix.com and sign in to your account.
- Click your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Select "Account" from the dropdown menu.
- Under "Membership and billing," click "Update payment info" or "Change payment method."
- Enter your new card number, expiration date, and CVV, or select PayPal if you prefer that option.
- Click "Save" or "Update." Netflix will confirm the change on screen.
If Netflix asks you to verify the new card with a small test charge, check your bank statement in a few days — the charge will appear and then be reversed. This is normal and confirms your card is valid.
Steps to update your payment method on a phone or tablet
Open a web browser on your phone (Safari, Chrome, or Firefox) rather than using the Netflix app. Go to netflix.com, sign in, and tap your profile icon. Tap "Account," then find the billing section. The steps are the same as on a computer, though the layout may be slightly different on a small screen.
Netflix's mobile app does not include a payment settings option for most users. If you see a billing option in your app, tap it — but if you don't, the web browser method is the correct one.
What to do if your payment fails
Netflix will send you an email notification if a charge doesn't go through. You typically have a grace period of a few days to update your payment method before your account pauses. During this time, you can still watch, but Netflix won't let you start new shows or movies.
Update your payment information as soon as you see the email. Once you do, Netflix will attempt to charge your account again within 24 hours. If the charge succeeds, your account returns to normal immediately and you won't lose any of your saved shows or viewing history.
If you ignore the notification and your account suspends, you'll need to update your payment method to reactivate it. Netflix doesn't automatically resume — you have to log in and complete the update yourself.
Removing old payment methods and managing multiple cards
Netflix lets you save more than one payment method. If you've added a new card but want to keep an old one as a backup, both will stay in your account. You can see all saved methods in your billing settings and choose which one Netflix charges.
To remove a card you no longer use, go to your payment settings and click the delete or remove button next to it. Netflix will only let you delete a card if you have at least one other payment method saved. You must always have at least one active payment method on file.
If you want to switch which card Netflix uses, select the new one as your primary payment method in your account settings. Netflix will charge that card on your next billing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my payment method interrupt my Netflix service?
No. Your subscription continues without any pause. Netflix will use your new payment method for your next scheduled billing date, which might be days or weeks away depending on when you signed up.
Can I change my payment method if my account is suspended?
Yes. If your account is paused because a charge failed, updating your payment information will reactivate it. Netflix will attempt to charge your new payment method within 24 hours of the update.
Do I need to cancel my subscription to switch payment methods?
No. You can change your payment method without canceling. Just update it in your billing settings, and your subscription stays active under the same plan.
What happens to my old payment method after I update it?
It stays saved in your account unless you delete it. You can remove it anytime, but Netflix requires you to have at least one active payment method on file at all times.
Can I use someone else's payment method on my Netflix account?
Yes, technically you can add anyone's card to your account. However, the card owner should know and consent, and they'll see the Netflix charge on their statement. If you're sharing an account and splitting costs, it's clearer to have one person pay and the others reimburse them directly.