Google Ads is Phasing Out Card Payments: What You Need to Know

Joshua Waller, Digital Marketing Manager at Foundery Digital Marketing Group

Google Ads is implementing a change for some high-spending advertisers, requiring them to shift from credit or debit card payments to bank-based methods as of July 31. This update is designed to simplify payment processes and improve scalability for accounts with high advertising investments. At Foundery, we’re here to help you adapt to these changes and optimize your payment strategies.

What is Changing?

Starting July 31, certain advertisers can no longer be able to use credit or debit cards for Google Ads payments. Instead, they must use one of the following bank-based payment options:

  • Monthly Invoicing: Google’s preferred method, offering a 30-day payment window.
  • Direct Debit for Automatic Payments: Available in certain regions.

This change aims to offer greater flexibility and control for advertisers with significant ad spend, aligning payment methods with the needs of high-growth accounts.

Why This Matters

This shift could affect advertisers who depend on credit cards for managing their cash flow. Although the new system is intended to streamline and automate payment processes, it takes away the flexibility that credit cards offer. Advertisers who fail to make the transition by the deadline may face account suspension.

Who Will Be Affected?

Google will notify “high-growth” accounts throughout 2024 that will need to make this change. The criteria for these notifications are not entirely clear, but account managers will also need to update their billing methods centrally.

What’s Next?

Advertisers need to have updated billing methods as of July 31 to avoid potential account suspension. Despite some initial confusion about who needs to transition, Google has confirmed that only a select number of accounts will be impacted.

How Foundery Can Help

At Foundery, we recognize that adjusting to new payment systems can be challenging. Our team is here to guide you through this transition, ensuring your Google Ads account remains in good standing and that your advertising efforts continue smoothly.

If you need help adapting to these new payment requirements or have questions about how this change might affect your advertising strategy, contact us today.

Foundery is committed to making this process as seamless as possible so you can focus on growing your business.