How to change your Netflix payment method
You can change how Netflix charges you by going to your account settings, finding the payment section, and swapping in a new card, bank account, or payment service. The change takes effect immediately for your next billing date. Netflix keeps your old payment method on file for a few days in case the new one fails, then removes it.
The exact steps depend on whether you use a web browser or the Netflix app, and whether you're the account owner or a member. If you're a member but not the account owner, you won't see payment options at all — only the account owner can change how the subscription gets paid.
Key Takeaways
- Only the Netflix account owner can change the payment method; members cannot access payment settings.
- You can update your payment information through the Netflix website or app, and the change applies to your next billing cycle.
- Netflix accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and prepaid gift cards, depending on your country and account type.
- If your new payment method fails, Netflix will retry it a few times before pausing your account; you can update it again without losing your profile or saved shows.
Steps to change payment on the Netflix website
Sign in to Netflix on a web browser and go to your account page. Look for "Account" or "Your Account" in the menu, usually found by clicking your profile icon in the top right corner. Once you're in account settings, find the section labeled "Membership and billing" or "Billing info."
Click the button next to your current payment method — it usually says "Change" or "Update." Netflix will show you the payment options available in your country. Select the new method you want to use: credit card, debit card, PayPal, or prepaid card. Enter the details and confirm. Netflix will show you a confirmation message, and the new method will be active for your next billing date.
Steps to change payment on the Netflix app
Open Netflix on your phone or tablet and tap your profile icon. Go to "Account" or "Settings," then look for "Membership and billing" or "Payment." Tap the option to change or update your payment method.
The app will open a screen to enter your new payment details. Fill in the information for your new card, bank account, or PayPal login, then confirm. Some phones may ask you to authenticate the change using your fingerprint or face recognition. Once confirmed, the new method takes effect on your next billing date.
What payment methods Netflix accepts
Netflix takes credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) and debit cards in most countries. PayPal is available in many regions and lets you use whatever payment method you've linked to your PayPal account. Prepaid gift cards — including Netflix gift cards and some third-party prepaid cards — work in certain countries.
Some countries also offer payment through mobile carriers or local payment services. The exact options depend on where you live and which Netflix plan you have. If you don't see a payment method you expected, it may not be available in your region yet.
What happens when your payment fails
If Netflix can't charge your new payment method on your billing date, it will try again over the next few days. During this time, you can still watch Netflix normally. If all retry attempts fail, Netflix will pause your account and send you an email asking you to update your payment information.
You won't lose your profile, watch history, or saved shows. Once you add a working payment method, your account reactivates immediately. Netflix doesn't charge you extra for the pause — you simply pick up where you left off.
Removing an old payment method
Netflix automatically removes your old payment method a few days after you successfully charge a new one. You don't need to delete it manually. If you want to remove a payment method before then — for example, if you're concerned about a compromised card — you can go back to the payment section and delete it directly.
Make sure you have a working payment method on file before you remove an old one. Netflix needs at least one valid payment method to keep your account active. If you remove your only payment method, your account will pause until you add a new one.
Changing payment when you share your account
Only the account owner can change the payment method. If you share your Netflix account with family members or friends, they won't see payment options in their settings — they'll only see their profile and viewing preferences.
If someone else is paying for your shared account and you want to take over payments, the account owner needs to change the payment method to your card or bank account. You can't do it yourself unless the account is transferred to your name entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my payment method interrupt my Netflix service?
No. Your service continues without interruption. The new payment method takes effect on your next billing date, and Netflix keeps your old method active until the new charge goes through successfully.
Can I use a prepaid card or gift card as my payment method?
Yes, Netflix accepts prepaid cards and gift cards in most countries, including Netflix-branded gift cards. Make sure the card has enough balance to cover your monthly subscription when your billing date arrives. If the balance is too low, the charge will fail and you'll need to update your payment method.
What if I don't have a credit card?
You have other options depending on your country. PayPal is available in many regions and can be linked to a bank account, debit card, or prepaid card. Some countries also accept direct bank account payments or mobile carrier billing. Check the payment options in your account settings to see what's available where you live.
Do I need to update my payment method if I change my card number but keep the same bank?
Yes. Even if it's the same bank, a new card number is a different payment method. You'll need to update Netflix with the new card number, expiration date, and CVV. Your old card will stop working for Netflix charges.
Can I change my payment method if my account is paused?
Yes. You can update your payment information at any time, even if your account is paused. Once you add a working payment method, your account will reactivate and you can resume watching.