Why Banks Are Giving Lower Credit Limits in 2026

Mexico — Having a credit card, paying on time, and having no outstanding debts does not always guarantee an automatic increase in the credit line. In 2026, banks maintain stricter criteria for authorizing high amounts, even for compliant customers.

This does not mean you are a bad user. In most cases, financial institutions analyze different risk factors before authorizing an increase, seeking to avoid over-indebtedness and potential defaults.

Below, La Verdad Noticias explains why banks grant low credit lines and what you should consider before applying for or using a card.

5 Reasons Why Banks Give Low Credit Lines

• Low or unverifiable income. Banks calculate the credit line based on the income they can verify. When the salary is low, variable, or comes from informal activities, the perceived risk increases and the line is usually limited to prevent defaults.
• Little or no credit history. Those applying for their first card or who have been using credit for a short time usually start with low lines. Without sufficient data on their financial behavior, the bank prefers to proceed gradually.
• Excessive use of current credit. Having several cards almost maxed out, even if paid on time, can be a warning sign. For banks, this reflects dependence on credit and less financial margin for unforeseen events.
• Frequent minimum payments. Paying the minimum avoids delays, but also indicates that the client might have difficulties paying off larger debts. Therefore, the bank usually limits the available amount as a preventive measure.
• Past delays, even if already settled. Delays remain recorded in the credit history for years. Even if the debt is paid off, those marks influence the decision to maintain low lines.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Credit Card?

Before applying for a credit card, it is important to define why you need it. It is not the same to seek to build a history as to finance purchases or take advantage of rewards. Having a clear objective avoids contracting products that do not fit your profile.

The annual fee and the interest rate determine the real cost of the card. If you usually pay the total each month, a card without an annual fee may be more convenient. If you finance purchases, the rate becomes more relevant.

It is also important to evaluate the minimum income required and your payment capacity. Choosing a card according to your finances reduces the risk of over-indebtedness and improves your relationship with the bank.

Finally, reviewing the terms and conditions allows you to understand commissions, cut-off dates, payments, and benefits, avoiding surprises on the statement.

What Are the Risks of a Credit Card?

Low credit is usually the result of limited income, a short history, or risk signals such as high use of the limit. The bank seeks to protect itself and protect you from a debt that is difficult to pay.

The main risk is using the card as additional income. This can generate high interest, prolonged minimum payments, and affectations to the credit history if not managed correctly.

What Is the Best Option for You?

The best card is not the one that offers the highest line, but the one that fits your income level, spending habits, and payment capacity. For those starting, cards without annual fees and with flexible requirements are usually more suitable. For users with constant expenses, a card with rewards or cashback may be convenient if paid on time.

The Most Used Credit Cards in Mexico

• BBVA — Aimed at people with good history and incomes from $4,000 to $6,000 monthly. Stands out for its digital control, interest-free months, and lifetime $0 annual fee for online applications.
• SANTANDER LIKEU — Requires minimum income of $7,500 monthly. Offers cashback of up to 6% in key categories, no annual fee, and a focus on social causes.
• HSBC ZERO — Requests income from $5,000 monthly. Does not charge an annual fee if used at least once a month and offers frequent bonuses and promotions.
• BANAMEX DESCUBRE — Designed for users with incomes from $7,500 monthly. Has an annual fee and benefits focused on travel, rewards, and premium services.
• BANORTE ORO — Requires income from $7,000 monthly. Offers initial promotions, points program, and complete digital management.
• MERCADO PAGO — No annual fee or history requirements. Focused on online purchases and interest-free months within Mercado Libre.
• BANCOPPEL — No minimum income or annual fee. Ideal for young people or those seeking to build history simply.
• NU MEXICO — No commissions or minimum spending. Designed for users with variable incomes, freelancers, or those who prefer a 100% digital experience.

Condusef Tips for Better Use of Your Credit Card

According to Condusef, using a credit card implies acquiring a debt that must be paid in the short or long term. It is not extra money, but a means of payment that must fit your budget.

The card can help you cover emergencies or facilitate payments, but using it for daily expenses without control can generate debts that are difficult to manage. Knowing your cut-off and payment dates allows you to better organize your finances and avoid unnecessary interest.

Paying on time and paying more than the minimum reduces the debt term and improves your credit history. Likewise, canceling cards you do not use and constantly reviewing your statement protects you from improper charges and keeps your personal finances in order.