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Research: Ways on how to close a credit card - Credit-Land.com

Having too many credit cards adorning your wallet can make your life a living hell. It is important to eliminate the ones that are costing you an arm and a leg in terms of maintenance. Closing certain high interest credit cards after transferring the outstanding balance to another card will also show slight improvement in your credit score. But, do you know how to close the credit card? The process is not as simple as it seems. Credit card companies do not close credit cards with the same efficiency and speed with which they issue them. Hence, there are a series of steps that you will need to follow in order to ensure you credit card is completely closed.

Place a call to the customer service department

The first step towards closing your credit card is to place a call to your credit card company and let them know of your decision. The customer service representative you are going to talk to will try to talk you out of your decision. You need to be firm with your decision and let them know that you don't intend to change it. As soon as you end the call, ensure you make a note of the date you placed the call and the time so you can refer back to it if needed.

Send an email

If you thought just talking to the customer service representative will ensure your credit card is closed, you are going to be in for a surprise. Most often than not, it takes more than just one call to close the credit card. The best way to ensure the bank sits up and takes note of your request is by following up the call with an email, letting them know of your decision to close the credit card. In the email, mention the date and time you made the first call to let them know of your decision. Ensure you include important information such as your credit card number so it can be easy for the bank to process the closure. Send an email to yourself as well, so it can serve as proof if any dispute arises at a later date.

Once you have taken these steps, wait for a week or two, and then call the credit card company again and find out about the status. Follow it up on a regular basis until you are assured the credit card has been completely closed.

Disclaimer: This editorial content is not provided or commissioned by the banks or credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of the banks or credit card issuer(s), and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the banks or credit card issuer(s). Reasonable efforts are made to present accurate info, however all info is presented without warranty. Consult with the issuing bank of the card or account for terms & conditions.
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