A payment limit is the maximum amount you can send, spend, or withdraw in a given period or per transaction. Limits protect you from large unauthorized payments and help banks manage risk.

Knowing your limits avoids failed payments at the checkout or when you transfer a large sum. You can often raise them temporarily after verifying it is really you.

Types of payment limits

Daily card limit: Cap on card purchases and ATM withdrawals per day

Transfer limit: Maximum per SEPA or international payment

ATM limit: Cash you can withdraw at ATMs in 24 hours

Contactless limit: Single-tap cap before PIN is required (set by card networks)

Why limits exist

If your card or phone is compromised, limits reduce how much a fraudster can move before you freeze the card. They also align with anti-money laundering rules for unusually large transfers.

Control limits with bunq

View and adjust card limits in the app. Use secure banking to freeze cards instantly. For large payments, plan ahead and confirm your limit in settings. Budgeting helps you stay within daily spending goals on top of formal limits.

Common questions

Why was my payment declined?You may have hit a limit, had insufficient balance, or needed extra verification for a high-risk transaction. Check the app message for details.

Can I increase my limit permanently?

Some limits rise with account history and plan tier. Request changes in the app where available.