Guatemala’s New Credit Card Law
On September 1, the Decree 2-2024, which includes the Credit Card Law, came into effect. This regulation, which impacts both banks and other card-issuing entities, aims to modernize and expand existing regulations to enhance transparency and security in the use of these financial products.
The Law outlines all aspects related to the contract between the issuer and the cardholder. This includes 19 clauses to consider, such as credit limits, contract duration, interest rates, fees, the rights and obligations of both parties, payment deadlines, minimum payments, and other important topics.
A key aspect of the Law is that before granting a credit line or modifying an existing credit limit, the card issuer must confirm that the applicant has the ability to repay the credit.
This law is designed to protect consumer rights and regulate additional costs charged by credit card issuers. Credit card issuers will no longer be able to charge interest on interest, a measure aimed at combating usury and ending the harmful practices of some issuers who made debts interminable.
Paul Rodríguez
paul.rodriguez@garciabodan.com
Senior Associate
García & Bodán
Guatemala