Swipe your magic payment wand, not working, want to figure out how to fix a demagnetized credit card?
Don’t worry; we got you.
Here we’ll show you how to fix a demagnetized card.
Specifically, what to do to the magnetic strip and how to avoid it in the future.
Let’s go!
What is a Demagnetized Credit Card?
A demagnetized credit card is a credit card that has been damaged by exposure to something that has a very strong magnetic strength. This can happen if the credit card is left near a speaker, debris exposure, a magnet, or if it is placed in a wallet with a magnetic closure. Demagnetization can also occur over time as the magnetic strip on the credit card wears down.
How to Fix a Demagnetized Credit Card? (7 Easy Tips)
1. Determine The Culprit
As a general rule, if your credit card has been demagnetized, you first need to figure out what caused the problem. Three main possibilities are a magnetic field, debris, or age.
It could have come from several sources if it was exposed to a magnetic field. For example, maybe you left it near a speaker or a magnet. Or, if you use a wallet with a magnetic closure, it could be that the credit card was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Age can also cause demagnetization, although this is less common. The magnetic strip may have worn down over time if your credit card is several years old.
Finally, debris can also be a problem. For example, if your credit card has been through the wash, the dirt on it gets bent too often, damaging the magnetic strip and causing it to stop working.
2. Clean the Card of Debris
If it was some sort of dirt or debris that caused the problem, the solution is simple: just clean off the credit card. Use a cotton ball, antibacterial wipe, microfiber cloth, or paper towel to wipe away dirt, and then try using the credit card again.
If that doesn’t work, or you’re unsure what the problem is, you can try one of the other methods below.
3. Take A Step Back and Swipe Again
It may have malfunctioned if you were too close to your cell phone in the phone case when it was handed over for a credit or debit card transaction. Try swiping again after you move further away from the potential interference. You could also ask someone else in the store to swipe the card for you.
4. Get Rid Of Other Metal Parts Near Your
If you’re still having credit card problems, it may be because another metal object interferes with the magnetic strip. For example, if your credit card is not working and you have your wallet next to it, try moving the wallet away and see if that helps. Then, remove all metal objects from the area (except other cards) and swipe again. If you have a belt with a lot of metal on it and a money clip, place the card away from that region, this may be the source.
5. Use a Magnet
You could try using another small magnet to fix the problem if a magnet was the culprit. Run the magnet along the length of the credit card, from top to bottom. This should realign the magnetic strip and make it work again.
If you don’t have a magnet handy, you can also try using a credit card with a magnetic strip. Then, just run it along the demagnetized credit card similarly.
6. Put Some Clear Tape On It
An excellent simple life hack is to put some clear tape on it if you don’t have any refrigerator magnets around. First, place a strip of clear tape over the magnetic strip on the back of the credit card. Then, try swiping the credit card again to see if it works. If not, try another strip of tape or move the tape around until you find a spot that works.
7. It Might Be Time To Replace The Card
If you’ve tried all of the above and your credit card still isn’t working, it might be time for a replacement card. First, contact your credit card company and explain the situation. They will be able to send you a new card with a working and strong magnetic strip.
How do Credit Cards Get Demagnetized?
Exposure To a Magnetic Field
This is the most common way that credit cards get demagnetized. For example, this can happen if the credit card is left near a speaker or a magnet. Or if it is placed in a wallet with a magnetic closure. Demagnetization can also occur over time as the magnetic strip on the credit card wears down.
Debris Exposure
Another way that credit cards can get demagnetized is through debris exposure. Too much friction from repeated bending can physically damage the delicate magnetic strip on your credit card, rendering it useless.
Scratching
Scratching the credit card can also do physical damage to the card’s magnetic strip and cause it to stop working.
This is often caused by metal objects in your pocket like keys or coins or repeatedly throwing them down when you get home.
Age
Just plain old age can also cause a demagnetized credit card. This is because the magnetic strip on your credit card will slowly degrade over time, making it more susceptible to demagnetization.
How to Avoid Getting Your Credit Card Demagnetized?
Keep Your Credit Cards Away From Magnetic Items
One way to avoid demagnetizing your credit card is to keep it away from magnetic items. This includes proximity to speakers, magnets, hotel cards, and anything else that produces a magnetic field.
You should also avoid placing your credit card in a wallet with a magnetic closure, as this can damage the strip over time.
Be Careful With Your Credit Cards
Another way to avoid demagnetization is to be careful with your credit cards. Do not bend them or expose them to extreme heat or too much friction.
Also, ensure the credit card is not scratched, as this can damage the magnetic strip.
Use A Card Sleeve or Plastic Bag
One way to protect your credit card from demagnetization is to use a card sleeve. These sleeves are made of a material that will block the magnetic field and protect the card.
You can find these sleeves online or at your local office supply store.
Replace Your Credit Card Every Few Years
Another way to avoid demagnetization is to replace your credit card every few years. This is because the magnetic strip on your bank card will degrade over time, making it more susceptible to demagnetization.
By replacing your atm card every few years, you can ensure that you always have a working card.
FAQ
Can you fix the magnetic strip on a credit card?
If the magnetic credit card strip is damaged, you can try to fix it with a strip of clear tape. You will need to replace the credit card if this does not work.
How do I know if my card is demagnetized?
If your credit card is demagnetized, it will not work in any card reader. You can test this by trying to use a credit card in a retail store or an ATM at a financial institution. Again, if the card is not working, it is likely demagnetized.
What causes credit cards to demagnetize?
Common causes of demagnetization to an old or new credit card due to exposure to a magnetic field, debris exposure, scratching, or age.
What happens when you demagnetize a credit card?
When you demagnetize a credit card, it will no longer work in any card reader. Therefore, you will need to contact the credit card issuer and replace the credit card.
How does the magnetic strip get damaged?
One of the biggest reasons the magnetic strip on your card can become demagnetized is over-exposure to a magnet, direct contact with debris, scratching the physical card, or just time.
Can our phone demagnetize credit cards?
Yes, your phone can demagnetize credit cards. The strong magnets in your phone can damage the magnetic strip on your credit card, rendering it unusable.
What’s the best place to keep your credit cards?
The best way to keep your credit cards is in a safe place, such as a wallet or protective sleeve.
Summary
Now that you know how to fix a demagnetized credit card, there’s no need to worry the next time it happens. You can easily follow these steps and be back on your way in minutes. And if all else fails, you can always try one of our recommended tips. Be sure to share this post with your friends who might find it helpful the next time their cards go wonky. Have any other tips for fixing a demagnetized credit card? Share them in the comments below!
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Hello! I'm Charles. 1st gen millionaire, real estate investor, health enthusiast, and military veteran. In the last 17 years, I have managed billions of dollars of resources for the Department of Defense. Created financial management plans that enabled fellow service members to get out of thousands of dollars in debt and tailored wellness plans that helped people reverse and eliminate high-blood pressure, pre-diabetes, and obesity. Learn more about me here.