Courtney C. Lipsey Credit cards are now a prevalent payment method and integral to daily life. It offers security and convenience with rewards and other benefits that aren’t accessible. There may be a time when you need to remove a credit card due to different reasons. Naturally, you’ll be wondering how canceling a credit card affects your credit score, mainly when creditworthiness is vital in financial matters. We’ll discuss the consequences of resigning your credit card and provide solutions to some commonly asked questions.
How do I determine the relationship between closing a Credit Card and the credit score?
Closing the credit card could have positive and negative impacts on your credit rating, depending on various factors.
This is how it might impact various elements of your creditworthiness.
Credit Utilization Ratio:
A significant factor that affects the credit rating is your credit utilization ratio, which is the percentage of credit you have available that you currently use. If you decide to close the credit card you are using, you decrease the amount of credit available to you in the form of several credit card limits. This could increase your credit utilization ratio if your credit cards have due balances. A higher percentage of credit utilization can adversely affect your credit score. If, however, you have lower balances on your other credit cards or have paid off your outstanding balances, the effect could be less.
Length of Credit History:
The duration of credit histories is a crucial factor in determining credit rating. Closing a credit line will lower your average credit accounts, which could hurt your rating. The result could be more significant if the credit card you’re closing is among your oldest accounts. But remember that the impact will diminish with time as new ones are added to your credit record.
Credit Mix:
An array of credit types, like loans, credit cards, and mortgages, could negatively impact your score on credit. Closing a credit card can decrease the number of credit types you have in your credit history, moving your credit mix. But the effect on this aspect is typically small compared to other elements such as payment history and credit utilization.
Payment History:
If you shut down the credit card you used, your payment history with that card is still visible on your credit record. If you’ve made punctual payments to that card, the card will remain a positive effect on your score even after you close the account.
When Should You Cancel Your Credit Card?
Being aware of when you should end a credit line is vital to make sure you make the correct choice for your financial situation.
Here are some scenarios where canceling credit cards could be an option
- High Annual Fee:
If your credit card is charged a cost per year that is more expensive than the benefits you can get with the credit card, consider canceling the card. But, before closing your account, view the possibility of downgrading your card to one with a lower annual fee or no charge in any way.
- Inactive Card:
If a credit or debit card is no longer used and it’s sitting in a drawer, It could be tempting to close it. However, it’s worth keeping it open even if it doesn’t charge an annual charge, as sealing it could alter the ratio of your credit utilization and the average age of your account.
- Excessive Debt or Temptation:
If you are experiencing financial difficulties due to credit card debt or have problems controlling your spending habits, removing a credit card could be a positive step toward financial discipline. You can take control of your financial affairs by eliminating the temptation or reducing the number of credit lines.
How to Close a Credit Card Without Damaging Your Credit Score?
If you’ve decided to terminate your credit card, make sure you follow these steps to limit the potential negative impact on your credit rating
- Pay Off Balances:
When closing the account, ensure you pay off any remaining balances. This ensures you don’t carry debt on the card that has been completed, which could adversely affect the ratio of your credit utilization.
- Contact the Card Issuer:
Contact the customer service and let them know you have decided to cancel your card. They will help you navigate the process and provide the required forms or instructions for completing the cancellation.
- Confirm Zero Balance:
After you have paid off the balances, confirm that your account has a zero balance. Keep track of your statements or online account to ensure no pending charges or charges.
- Send a Written Request:
It’s recommended to send a letter to the issuer of your credit card informing them of your intent to terminate the credit card. Keep a copy of the letter you write for your records. Follow with a follow-up if the lender initiates no action within some time. Include the account information, contact details, and a clear explanation of why you wish to close the loan.
- Obtain Confirmation:
Get a written confirmation from the credit card issuer that your account was closed. This document can prove helpful should any discrepancies occur in the future or you require proof that the bill was completed.
Alternatives to Closing a Credit Card:
If you’re reluctant to shut down the credit line but still would like to be able to manage your credit efficiently, Consider these options:
- Keep the Card Active:
If the card does not have an annual charge and you’re not inclined to spend it in a way that isn’t necessary, keeping the card active will help you maintain a more extended credit history and increase your credit utilization ratio. Make it a point to use it for occasional purchases and pay it off on time.
- Convert the Card:
Certain credit card issuers permit the conversion of your current card to a different kind of card issued by the exact issuer. For instance, you could change from a premium credit card with an annual cost to a low-cost or low-cost card. A variant of the card may have lower charges and benefits, which allows you to keep your account open without incurring excessive expenses. In this way, you’ll be able to save your credit history and benefit while avoiding the necessity of canceling.
Conclusion
Canceling a credit card could be detrimental to the credit rating of your account, especially regarding the credit utilization ratios and how old your cards are. However, the consequences are usually minimal and can be reduced by ensuring a responsible credit history. It’s crucial to analyze your personal situation, look at options to cancel, and then make a decision that aligns with your financial objectives. If you’re proactive and diligent in managing credit, you can keep your credit score in good shape.
