Where to find the Southwest payment page on Chase.com
Go to chase.com and sign into your account. Once you're logged in, look for "Pay" or "Payments" in the top navigation menu — the exact wording depends on whether you're on desktop or mobile. Click that, then select the Southwest card from your list of accounts. Chase will show you a payment screen specific to that card.
If you can't find the payment section, look for a "Manage your account" or "Account services" link. From there, you should see an option for "Make a payment" or "Pay your bill". The layout changes occasionally, but the payment function is always in the main navigation, not buried in a submenu.
Key Takeaways
- Sign into chase.com, select your Southwest card, and use the "Pay" section to send money directly to Chase from a linked bank account.
- You can pay the full balance, the minimum payment, or any amount in between, and the payment usually posts within one business day.
- Chase also lets you set up automatic payments on a date you choose each month, which prevents late fees if you forget to pay manually.
- If you're paying from a bank account outside Chase, you'll need to add it as a verified funding source first, which takes one to two business days.
Payment options: full balance, minimum, or custom amount
When you reach the payment screen, Chase shows you three numbers: your current balance, your minimum payment due, and your statement balance. You can pay any of these, or type in a custom amount. Most people pay either the full statement balance (to avoid interest charges) or the minimum payment (to avoid a late fee). Paying more than the minimum but less than the full balance will reduce interest but won't eliminate it.
The minimum payment is the smallest amount Chase requires by your due date to keep your account in good standing. If you pay less than the minimum, you'll be charged a late fee and your interest rate may increase. The statement balance is everything you owe from your last billing cycle. The current balance includes charges made after your statement closed.
How to add a bank account for payment
If the bank account you want to pay from isn't already linked to your Chase profile, you'll need to add it first. On the payment screen, look for "Add a bank account" or "Link a new account". Chase will ask for your bank's routing number, your account number, and the account type (checking or savings). You can find both numbers on a check or by logging into your bank's website.
After you enter this information, Chase verifies the account by making two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to that account within one to two business days. Once the deposits arrive, you'll log back into Chase, confirm the amounts, and the account is verified. Only then can you use it to pay your Southwest card. This verification step is a security measure and cannot be skipped.
When the payment posts and how long it takes
Payments made before 8 p.m. Eastern time on a business day usually post to your account the next business day. If you pay after 8 p.m. or on a weekend or holiday, the payment is processed the next business day and posts the day after that. This means a payment made on Friday evening won't show up until Monday at the earliest.
Your due date is set by Chase based on when your account was opened. If you're cutting it close to your due date, pay at least two business days early to be safe. If your payment doesn't post by the due date, you may be charged a late fee even if you submitted it on time. Chase's payment system shows you a confirmation number when ready after you submit, which proves you paid on time if there's ever a dispute.
Setting up automatic payments
To avoid missing a payment, you can set up automatic payments directly on Chase.com. Go to the payment section, select your Southwest card, and look for "Set up automatic payments" or "Autopay". Choose the date each month you want the payment to come out (many people pick payday), then decide whether to pay the full statement balance, the minimum, or a fixed amount you set.
Automatic payments can be changed or cancelled anytime through your Chase account. If your balance varies month to month, paying the full statement balance on autopay means you'll never carry interest or risk a late fee. If you choose a fixed amount, make sure it's at least the minimum payment, or you'll still be charged a late fee in months when your balance is higher.
What to do if a payment fails or doesn't post
If Chase rejects your payment, you'll see an error message on the payment screen explaining why. Common reasons include insufficient funds in your bank account, an incorrect routing number, or a bank account that's been closed. Fix the problem and try again when ready — don't wait, because your due date doesn't change.
If you submitted a payment and it didn't post within the timeframe Chase stated, contact Chase customer service through the phone number on the back of your card or through the find message center in your online account. Have your confirmation number ready. Chase can trace the payment and, if it was delayed on their end, may reverse any late fees charged.
Paying by phone or mail if you can't use the website
If you prefer not to pay online, you can call the number on the back of your Southwest card to make a payment by phone. A representative will take your bank account information over the phone and process the payment when ready. This method works the same way as online payment — the money comes from your bank account and posts within one business day.
You can also mail a check to the address shown on your statement. Write your account number on the check and mail it to the address listed under "Payment Address" on your bill. Mail payments take longer to post (usually five to seven business days from when Chase receives it), so mail early if you're close to your due date. Never mail cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Southwest card from another credit card?
No. Chase only accepts payments from bank accounts (checking or savings), not from other credit cards. Paying a credit card with another credit card is considered a cash advance and comes with high fees and interest rates. You must use a bank account to pay.
What happens if I pay more than I owe?
The extra amount becomes a credit on your account. You can use it toward future purchases, or you can request a refund by calling Chase. If you set up automatic payments for more than your balance, Chase will only charge you for what you actually owe.
Is there a fee to pay my bill on Chase.com?
No. Paying through Chase.com, by phone, or by mail is free. Some third-party payment services charge fees, but Chase's own payment methods do not.
Can I pay my bill before my statement closes?
Yes. You can pay anytime, even before your statement closes. Paying early reduces your balance and can lower the interest you're charged if you carry a balance. It also lowers your credit utilization, which can help your credit score.
What if I'm out of the country when my payment is due?
You can still pay through Chase.com from anywhere with internet access. If you can't access the website, call the number on the back of your card — Chase's phone lines accept international calls, though international calling rates may explore on your end.