How to Cancel a Discover Credit Card
Since its introduction in 1985, the Discover Card has become one of the United States largest credit card issuers with, according to the company itself, over 50 million card members. However, a time may come when a card member will want to close their Discover Card account. Just paying off a balance doesn't necessarily close any credit card account, including a Discover Card.
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Things You'll Need
- Discover Card
- Telephone access
- Most recent Discover Card statement
- Means to pay off balance, if appropriate
- Word processor program (optional)
- Paper (optional)
- Envelope (optional)
- Postage (optional)
Instructions
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Gather all the required paperwork and supplies. You'll definitely need your account number, and probably need other information for security reasons, such as your billing address, the last charge (or a recurring change) on your card, the 3-digit security code from the back of your card, and/or your mother's maiden name. Having these pieces of information gathered and handy will make your call much more efficient.
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If you have not paid the remaining balance on your Discover Card in full, be prepared to do so before your account can or will be completely closed. In some cases, an electronic bank transfer for the principal and balance is sufficient, but the customer service representative can tell you the specifics in your case.
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Locate the customer service number on the back of your card. If you do not have your card, Discover's general customer service number is 1-800-DISCOVER in the United States. Call and either choose the button choice on your touch-tone phone for customer service or ask to be connected to a customer service representative. Speak with the agent and indicate that you would like to completely close your account.
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If you have issues with this method, or would rather close your account by mail, you can send a letter and your final payment to the following address (subject to change---check your most recent Discover Card bill for the most up-to-date address):
Discover Financial Services
P.O. Box 30943
Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0943
You can use the following as a basis for your own letter:
(Date)
Dear Discover:
Regarding Account Number (xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx)
Please cancel my service and close the above account immediately. I have enclosed a check for the remaining balance of ($amount). No further fees or charges will be honored hereafter.
Very truly yours,
(Signature Name)
(Address)
You can also find additional form letters to tailor for your own use below in resources. -
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Destroy your card and dispose of it safely.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are closing your account by telephone, it's smart to ask to have a confirmation letter sent to your address showing that your account is closed.
Resources
- Photo Credit Discover Financial Services
