Jim Spangler
Jul 24, 2026
Credit card fraud is a serious offense in Texas, exposing individuals to devastating consequences, including hefty fines and time behind bars. The severity of the penalties you can face upon conviction depends on several factors, such as the nature of the alleged scheme, the monetary value involved, and whether the accused has a prior criminal history. Given what is at stake, it’s in your best interest to seek guidance from an experienced Dallas Theft Lawyer. Please continue reading as we explore the potential penalties you can face for credit card fraud in Texas.
What is Considered Credit Card Fraud in Texas?
Under Texas Penal Code § 32.31, credit card fraud (officially prosecuted as Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse) is defined as any unauthorized or deceptive use, possession, or transfer of another person’s card. The statute also criminalizes the manufacturing, modification, or use of fraudulent cards. You can be charged with this offense for any of the following actions committed with the intent to defraud:
- Using a stolen or lost credit card
- Using an expired or revoked credit card
- Stealing credit card information
- Buying or selling credit cards
- Electronic theft of payment information
- Fraudulent online purchases
- Presenting false information to obtain a credit card in someone else’s name
Ultimately, you can be penalized for any intentional attempt to hijack another individual’s money.
What Are the Potential Penalties for Credit Card Fraud?
If you have been charged with credit card fraud in Texas, it’s crucial to understand the potential penalties you can face upon conviction. Generally, this offense is charged as a state jail felony, which is punishable by 180 days to two years behind bars and a monetary fine of up to ,000. If a weapon was involved or you have certain prior convictions, it can be charged as a third-degree felony. It should be noted that the penalties can be enhanced depending on certain aggravating factors like:
- Elderly Victim: If the victim is 65 or older, the offense will automatically be elevated to a third-degree felony, which is punishable by two to ten years of imprisonment and potential fines reaching up to ,000.
- Separate Charges for Each Card or Transaction: When several stolen cards or repeated unauthorized charges are involved, the court can order sentences to run consecutively rather than concurrently. This means the total time served can exceed the two-year maximum for a state jail felony.
- Prior Convictions: If you have certain prior felony convictions, you will likely face penalties at a higher felony level. For instance, two prior state jail felony convictions will enhance the penalties to that of a second degree felony (two to twenty years).
Depending on the unique circumstances of the offense, the court may order restitution to victims and impose other sanctions. Taking prompt action with a skilled Dallas theft crimes lawyer at Spangler Law is the best way to mitigate these penalties and minimize the impact on your future. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.
