Close a Credit Card

Not all credit card relationships are meant to last forever. Get the details on when you should and should not close a credit card.

what happens when my credit card is canceled because of inactivity? Credit card issuers have the right to close accounts, and inactivity is a common reason—if you’re not making charges, you’re not incurring interest. Issuers are not required to give notice. Having a credit card closed can hurt your credit score. If you’d like to keep an account open, request to keep it open and make a purchase immediately. Prevent inactivity cancellations by using your credit card periodically

What Inactivity Cancellations Do to Your Credit Score

Updated September 29, 2020

Cutting up credit card

Things to Consider Before You Close a Credit Card With a Balance

Updated February 11, 2020

A close-up of three well-used credit cards

Is It Better to Close a Paid Credit Card or Leave It Open?

Updated May 28, 2020

Determining if a credit card can be closed

How to Close a Credit Card Without the Account Number

Updated February 28, 2021

A woman cuts up a credit card

Learn If You Should Close an Unused Credit Card or Leave it Open

Updated February 29, 2020

A woman cuts up a credit card

Learn If You Should Close an Unused Credit Card or Leave it Open

Cutting up your cards isn't enough. Learn how to cancel them.

The Right Way to Cancel Your Credit Cards