 TITLE: What to Consider Before Canceling a Credit Card CONTENT: How to Close a Credit Card Account\n----------------------------------\nIf you've decided it makes sense to cancel a credit card, here are the steps you can take to complete the process.\n### 1\\. Check Your Rewards Balance\nIf you have a rewards card, check your rewards balance and read the fine print in your credit card agreement to find out what will happen to that balance if you close the account. Canceling a card may mean forfeiting your rewards, so if that's the case with your card, find a way to cash out before you proceed.\n### 2\\. Contact Your Card Issuer\nDepending on the company, you may be able to request to close an account via live chat or a secure online message, though some card issuers require you to call.\nAgain, the card issuer might try to entice you to stay with a counteroffer. But if you're sure you want to cancel the account, politely refuse and ask them to process the closure. Be sure to confirm that your account balance is zero.\nAt the end of the process, your card should be canceled immediately. They'll send you written notice of the card's cancellation that includes details of the closure.\n### 3\\. Consider Following Up in Writing\nIt's generally not necessary, but if you want to be sure, send the card issuer a short letter with your cancellation request.\nInclude your name, address, phone number and credit card account number, as well as information about your initial request to cancel the account. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.\n### 4\\. Destroy the Card\nEven if your account has been closed, it's in your best interest to make it impossible for anyone to use the card fraudulently. If it's plastic, cut it up with scissors or use a shredder. If it's metal or another hard material, ask the card issuer if it provides a card recycling service. If so, the issuer can send you an envelope you'll use to return the card to the issuer.\n### 5\\. Keep an Eye on Your Online Account\nAgain, the account has been closed, but it is possible for transactions to show up. This is especially common in the case of refunds. If you return an item you purchased with the card or the card issuer refunds a portion of your annual fee, it can show up as a credit. If this happens, contact the card issuer to ask for a refund check. END