 TITLE: Does Closing an Account Hurt your Credit? CONTENT: Should You Close Accounts After Paying Off the Debt?\n----------------------------------------------------\nIf you are working to improve your credit scores, it's typically best to leave your credit cards open once they are paid off. Ideally, you should keep those accounts active by making small purchases and paying your balances in full each month.\nThis is especially true if you are planning to take out a loan, such as an auto loan or mortgage, in the next three to six months. You'll want to keep your credit history stable until that credit transaction is complete. END