How Do I Cancel A Credit Card banks, list of banks in How Do I Cancel A Credit Card banks, best banks
Follow Us:
Banks » How Do I Cancel A Credit Card

Navigating the Process of Cancelling a Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide


Credit cards have become an integral part of our financial lives, offering convenience and rewards. However, there may come a time when you decide it's best to cancel a credit card. Whether you're simplifying your financial portfolio or transitioning to a new card, understanding how to cancel a credit card properly is essential to ensure a smooth process. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps of cancelling a credit card while minimizing any potential impact on your credit score.

Step 1: Assess Your Reasons

Before making the decision to cancel a credit card, it's important to understand why you want to do so. Are you looking to reduce the number of cards you have, avoid annual fees, or switch to a card with better rewards? Assessing your reasons will help you determine if cancelling is the right choice.
What's the difference between a bank and a credit union?

Step 2: Pay Off Outstanding Balances

Before you proceed with cancellation, ensure that your credit card has a zero balance. If you have any outstanding balances, pay them off in full to avoid accruing interest charges. Remember that cancelling a card with a balance could have negative implications for your credit score.

Step 3: Redeem Rewards or Points

If your credit card has rewards points, cashback, or other benefits, make sure to redeem them before cancelling the card. Many rewards programs allow you to transfer points to other accounts or use them for purchases even after the card is cancelled.

Step 4: Contact the Issuer

Get in touch with your credit card issuer's customer service. This can usually be done through a phone call or by visiting the issuer's website. Inform them of your intention to cancel the card. They might try to offer alternatives or incentives to keep you as a customer, so be prepared to discuss your reasons for cancelling.

Step 5: Send a Written Request

While many issuers allow cancellation over the phone, it's a good idea to follow up with a written request. This can serve as a record of your intent to cancel the card and can help avoid any future disputes.

Step 6: Cut Up the Card

Once your cancellation request is confirmed, it's time to physically dispose of the card. Cut it up into multiple pieces to ensure that the card number and security code are completely destroyed.

Step 7: Monitor Your Credit Report

After the card is cancelled, keep an eye on your credit report to ensure that the cancellation is properly reflected. This can help you identify any errors or issues that may arise.

Step 8: Evaluate the Impact on Your Credit Score

Cancelling a credit card can impact your credit score, especially if the card had a long history or a significant credit limit. The average age of your credit accounts and your credit utilization ratio might be affected. If the card you're cancelling is one of your oldest cards, it could lead to a decrease in the average age of your accounts.

Step 9: Consider a Replacement

If you're cancelling a card to switch to a different one, make sure you've been approved for the new card before cancelling the old one. This ensures that you maintain access to credit and helps minimize any potential credit score impact.

In Conclusion: Thoughtful and Strategic

Cancelling a credit card is a decision that should be approached thoughtfully and strategically. By assessing your reasons, paying off balances, and following the proper steps, you can cancel a credit card while minimizing any negative effects on your credit score. Remember that maintaining a healthy credit history is essential for your financial well-being, so make informed choices that align with your goals and circumstances.
 

Can I upgrade or downgrade my credit card?

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to bank credit cards and credit card offers


Daily Best Banks' CD Rates

Program
Rate
Bank
1 Yr
5.26%
First Internet Bank of Indiana: 5.26% APY, $1,000 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.25%
Bask Bank: 5.25% APY, $1,000 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.21%
CIBC Bank USA: 5.21% APY, $1,000 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.20%
Popular Direct: 5.20% APY, $10,000 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.15%
Marcus by Goldman Sachs: 5.15% APY, $500 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.15%
America First Credit Union: 5.15% APY, $500 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.15%
Limelight Bank: 5.15% APY, $1,000 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.15%
Bread Savings: 5.15% APY, $1,500 minimum deposit
1 Yr
5.15%
Sallie Mae Bank: 5.15% APY, $2,500 minimum deposit

*CD Rates are subject to change without notice and may vary from bank to bank and branch to branch. Please contact your local bank for updated bank CD rates.