Credit Card Minimum Due Set to Rise Sharply

Effective March 2026, ICICI Bank is revising its minimum amount due (MAD) calculation for several credit cards. This adjustment will impact statements generated from that date onward, with specific timings varying by card type. For customers who consistently pay only the minimum amount, this revision is expected to lead to a noticeable increase in their monthly payable balance.

The updated MAD formula now explicitly includes factors such as Goods and Services Tax (GST), EMI principal and interest, various fees, and any overlimit amounts. It also accounts for unpaid MAD from the previous statement and a minimum of 5 percent of retail spends and cash advances. The bank will compare 5 percent of total spends against finance charges, with the higher amount influencing the minimum payment, potentially raising it significantly if finance charges are high.

Separately, ICICI Bank has also updated its complimentary airport lounge access policy. Beginning July 1, 2026, cardholders must achieve a minimum spend of Rs 75,000 within a calendar quarter to qualify for lounge access in the subsequent quarter. These changes collectively indicate a more stringent approach to revolving credit usage by the bank.