SBI Update: Major Changes to Credit Card Rules Set to Take Effect on December 1

From December 1, 2024, the State Bank of India (SBI) will introduce new policies affecting credit card users, especially those making digital gaming transactions . These changes, following previous updates, impact reward points , utility bill surcharges, and finance charges, so SBI credit cardholders should be prepared.

# No Reward Points for Digital Gaming Transactions

• Starting December 1, 2024, SBI credit cards will no longer offer reward points on transactions made with digital gaming platforms.
• This change applies to a broad selection of SBI credit cards, including popular cards like AURUM, ELITE, PRIME, SimplySAVE, and several co-branded cards issued in partnership with regional banks like Karnataka Bank, City Union Bank, and Central Bank of India.

# New Surcharge on High Utility Bill Payments

• Effective November 1, 2024, a 1% surcharge will be added on utility bill payments exceeding ₹50,000 in a statement cycle made with SBI credit cards.
• Utility payments below ₹50,000 will remain exempt from this surcharge.

# Increased Finance Charges on Unsecured Credit Cards

• SBI is raising the finance charge to 3.75% for all unsecured credit cards, except the Shaurya/Defense cards, starting November 1, 2024.

This adjustment affects interest rates on unpaid balances for most SBI cardholders.

SBI’s updates reflect an effort to streamline services while adjusting cardholder benefits. Make sure to review your credit card usage if you frequently use SBI cards for gaming or high utility payments to avoid added costs and stay updated with these new regulations.