answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

If you have them paid off, then cut them up and destroy them. Don't call and cancel them, but look over the statements every month to make sure the balances remain zero and that you arent being ripped off. If you were to close these accounts, then it would negatively affect your ability to obtain credit. If they aren't paid off, you can still destroy the cards, but make sure you pay them and check for unusual purchases as usual.

: I disagree with the answer provided above. If you do not cancel the credit cards you will still be liable for fees. Which if forgotten about (as you are not using your card) will accumulate into more debt. You also run the risk of your 'still active' card numbers being used in a fraudulent manner. You also run the risk of using the cards yourself which may not be helpful to you in the long run. : Just cutting them up may stop you from using the card(s) for those spur-of-the-moment purchases but that is all it will do. : Canceling the cards with a zero balance will not affect your creditability. On the contrary, as it shows a higher degree of financial responsibility especially since you have paid them off! I take it you are intending to keep one?

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: I have 3 or 4 credit cards i don't use want to close how should i do that so as not to hurt my credit score?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Finance

When should you close unused credit cards and will this hurt or help your credit score?

Usually closing accounts will hurt your score because if you have debt on other cards, your debt to available credit ratio will rise and it can ding your credit score.


If you close out some of your credit card accounts and continue to pay them off will that increase your credit score?

You should not close a credit card if you are still paying on it. It will bring your credit score down. Close it when you are done paying. I know this because my mom owns her own credit repair/management business and she tells me what to do with my credit cards.


Are there any credit cards that won't negatively affect my credit score?

Your best bet would be to close those older credit cards. While it may take some time, your credit score can be improved. However, opening a new credit card, even if it doesn't affect your credit score may not be the best way to go. I am unsure if there is a credit card that wouldn't affect your credit score.


Should you close all credit cards since that FICO score is not needed to buy a house?

I am a mortgage broker. You need a FICO score to buy a home. If you have no credit, keep open at least one credit card so you can build some tradelines.


Do you have a credit score if you do not have any credit cards?

Yes, it is possible to have a credit score even though you don't currently have any credit cards. If you have ever applied for credit of any type then you are likely to have a credit score.

Related questions

When should you close unused credit cards and will this hurt or help your credit score?

Usually closing accounts will hurt your score because if you have debt on other cards, your debt to available credit ratio will rise and it can ding your credit score.


If you close out some of your credit card accounts and continue to pay them off will that increase your credit score?

You should not close a credit card if you are still paying on it. It will bring your credit score down. Close it when you are done paying. I know this because my mom owns her own credit repair/management business and she tells me what to do with my credit cards.


Are there any credit cards that won't negatively affect my credit score?

Your best bet would be to close those older credit cards. While it may take some time, your credit score can be improved. However, opening a new credit card, even if it doesn't affect your credit score may not be the best way to go. I am unsure if there is a credit card that wouldn't affect your credit score.


Should you close all credit cards since that FICO score is not needed to buy a house?

I am a mortgage broker. You need a FICO score to buy a home. If you have no credit, keep open at least one credit card so you can build some tradelines.


Do you have a credit score if you do not have any credit cards?

Yes, it is possible to have a credit score even though you don't currently have any credit cards. If you have ever applied for credit of any type then you are likely to have a credit score.


Does a business credit card affect credit score?

All loans and credit cards have an affect on your credit score. Failure to use your credit cards responsibly will reduce your credit score and increase your interest costs.


Should I get several credit cards?

Having a large credit limit can help your score but do not apply for several cards at the same time. Doing so can hurt your score and make you unable to get any new credit offers.


How to improve my credit score?

Credit score is essential element in any transaction concerning financial history such as applying for additional credit card. In order to improve credit score, the settlement of financial obligations should be on time. When owning credit cards, these cards must be maintained at a minimum basis. There should be a regular checking of account in order to monitor any erroneous transactions that may affect the credit score.


If you have three credit cards would it hurt your credit score to close two out of the three cards?

It may. The target range for maximum points to your score is two to four revolving accounts. Managed properly and paid on time will cause points to be added.


Is it better to have paid off open credit accounts on your credit report or should you just go ahead and close them?

It all depends on your income. It is good to have zero balance credit cards on your credit report. But if your potential debit to income ratio is too high, having too many credit cards could be a negative reflection on your credit score.


You just finished paying off your credit card should you close the account?

Closing the account will remove the temptation to spend up the cards again but, closing the account can actually lower your credit score. You ought to take that question and your private credit information to a credit counselor for a better answer. By the way, CONGRATULATIONS on paying off the cards!


How do credit cards affect an individuals credit history?

Credit Cards greatly impact a credit score. In fact, 30% of your credit score is determined by how well you use credit cards. (Utilization Rate). You want to keep your Utilization rate at 20% or less of the credit limit.