If I die, can my wife still use my credit card?

July 15, 2026 — 5:01am

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I have a question concerning credit card payments and making things easier for my wife if I die. Most of our monthly bills are automatically charged to a credit card in my name. I assume that if I die, the bank will cancel that card. We also have a joint account with separate credit cards, but each card has a different number. Is there a way to have a credit card in joint names with the same card number, so all those automatic payments would continue without having to be changed?

You cannot have a joint credit card. From the information you’ve provided, it appears that you are the primary cardholder and your wife has a supplementary card. If so, both cards would normally be cancelled on your death.

To avoid disruption, your wife should obtain a credit card in her own name as soon as possible and gradually transfer the automatic payments to that card.

Personally, I’m not a fan of automatic debits to a bank account for a credit card. Years ago, a bank debited a large sum from my account without notice. It took me four weeks to get a refund.

I am a recently retired CPA. My wife and I receive income from our superannuation pensions and a rental property, so the proposed capital gains tax changes are of particular interest to us. I have been following the ATO’s post-budget material and commentary in the financial press, but I cannot find a clear answer to one question.

I have three properties and $400k in super.........

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