Need to know: UK banks vary on contactless card controls ahead of rule changes

• Less than half of UK banks and building societies currently allow customers to set their own contactless card limits, according to new research by Defaqto.
• The analysis of 31 financial institutions found only 42% permit personalised contactless limits. However, 68% do allow users to freeze contactless payments entirely.
• The findings come ahead of rule changes from March 19 that will enable firms to set higher contactless limits than the current £100 ceiling. Katie Brain, banking expert at Defaqto, said: "With the contactless cap being removed, choosing a bank or building society with the right in-app controls could make a real difference to how easily people manage their money."
• The Financial Conduct Authority is implementing the changes to help firms adapt to consumer demands and new technology. Existing fraud protections will remain in place for unauthorised transactions.
• UK Finance has indicated it doesn't expect immediate changes to the £100 limit. Most firms are expected to maintain current limits for now while ensuring strong security controls remain.
• Defaqto recommends customers monitor upcoming payments, classify spending, and activate balance alerts to maintain better control over their finances.

READ THE FULL STORY: Major contactless card changes from March 19, 2026, as alert issued