How the 15/3 Credit Card Payment Method Works

If you are familiar with the plot and/or the book of CoS, you know that credit cards can get messy. They offer convenience, rewards, and financial flexibility, but they can also trap you in a cycle of debt and high interest if mismanaged. As we navigate the complex world of personal finance in 2025, strategies for managing credit cards continue to evolve. 

One strategy that has gained popularity in recent years is the 15/3 credit card payment method, which claims to help improve your credit score and reduce interest. But does it actually work? Or is it just another overhyped financial trick?

What is the 15/3 Credit Card Payment Method?

The 15/3 method suggests making two payments per billing cycle instead of one:

• The first payment is made 15 days before your statement date

• The second payment is made 3 days before your statement date

The Reality

1. Credit Utilization Impact is Minimal

Lowering your credit utilization ratio can help your credit score, but most credit card issuers only report your balance to credit bureaus once a month—typically on your statement date. If your goal is to keep utilization low, what really matters is ensuring your balance is low on the statement date, not necessarily making two payments per month.

2. Payment History is More Important Than Payment Frequency

Your payment history accounts for 35% of your credit score, making it the most important factor. However, making multiple monthly payments doesn’t improve your score any more than making one full, on-time payment. As long as you pay at least the minimum amount due on time, your score will benefit.

3. Interest Savings Are Only Relevant If You Carry a Balance

Paying earlier in the billing cycle can reduce your average daily balance, potentially saving you some interest. 

How to Actually Help Your Credit Score?

1. Always Pay on Time (No Exceptions!)

Your payment history is the biggest factor in your credit score. Even one missed payment can hurt you for years. Set up automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date. But if you’re already carrying a balance, the next step is tackling it fast. Learn the best strategies in our guide on Why and How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt ASAP.

2. Keep Your Credit Utilization Below 30%

Credit utilization—how much of your available credit you’re using—accounts for 30% of your credit score. If you regularly max out your credit card, your score will drop.

To maintain a healthy utilization ratio, either:

• Pay your balance before your statement date to keep the reported amount low.

• Request a credit limit increase to reduce your percentage of usage.

3. Pay in Full Whenever Possible

Carrying a balance does not help your credit score—it only leads to interest payments. If you can pay off your full balance, do it. Fun fact, this not only saves you money, but it also shows lenders that you can manage credit responsibly.

"Making multiple payments can help lower your utilization, but it’s not a magic fix. Lenders care more about responsible long-term credit use—on-time payments, low balances, and avoiding unnecessary debt." – David Moreau, European Financial Strategist

The Evolving Credit Landscape in Europe (2025)

As credit habits shift across Europe, it’s crucial to understand the bigger picture. Consumers are using credit cards more than ever, but how they use them is evolving.

Here are two key insights shaping the European as well as Global credit landscape:

1. Younger Generations Are Leading the Credit Surge

Credit cards in Europe are growing in popularity, but the way people use them is changing. While debit cards still dominate (77% market share by 2025), Millennials and Gen Z are leading a shift toward credit for big purchases, travel, and online shopping. Sixty-eight percent of young adults now own a credit card, and 66% use it regularly.

 How different age groups are using credit cards

2. Rewards, Rewards, Rewards 

Rewards programs are evolving too. Instead of complicated points systems, cash back, and direct discounts are becoming the go-to perks. Retailers like Tesco and Lidl are focusing on digital coupons and practical, easy-to-use incentives. Meanwhile, contactless and digital payments continue to take over, making Apple Pay and Google Pay the norm for everyday transactions.

At the same time, credit card applications are hitting record highs globally, and Europe is experiencing a similar rise. More people are applying for credit, reflecting increased financial confidence post-pandemic.

 Global increase of credit card applications

Despite the rise of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, credit cards remain the preferred choice for flexible repayment options. However, with rising interest rates, having a balance is more expensive than ever. What can you do? Pay in full whenever possible, keep utilization low, and choose a credit card with rewards that match your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts: How to Stay Ahead 

As credit habits shift across Europe, being intentional with your credit use is more important than ever. With younger generations driving adoption, cashback rewards becoming the new standard, and digital payments taking over, the way we manage credit is changing. However, one thing remains the same: credit is only valuable when used wisely.

If you have been considering strategies like the 15/3 method, it may be helpful, but it is not a magic solution. Instead, focus on the fundamental habits that truly impact your financial health:

1. Make payments on time every month. Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score.

2. Keep your credit utilization low. Whether you make one or multiple payments, the key is to avoid maxing out your card.

3. Pay your balance in full when possible. With rising interest rates, carrying a balance is a big no no. 

At its core, credit cards are financial tools, not free money. The smartest approach is to use it strategically, take advantage of rewards that align with your spending habits, and avoid unnecessary debt.

As the credit landscape continues to evolve, how are you adapting? Are you rethinking your credit strategy in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below.