How to Cancel Credit Cards

**Snip Snip**

Learn how to cancel your credit cards the right way.

Things You'll Need

• Online Access
• Telephone
• To be Firm
• Pen and Notepad

Instructions

1. 

   Contact One of the 3 Credit Bureau: Equifax (1.800.525.6285, www.equifax.com), Experian (1.888.397.3742, www.experian.com), Trans Union (1.800.680.7289, www.transunion.com)and find out how closing your credit card account will effect your credit score.

2. Next contact your creditor to find out the appropriate way to close your account. Some creditors will request you cancel in writing while others may close the account over the phone.

3. 

   To close your account via phone, locate the customer service number which is usually on the back of the credit card or on the monthly statement.

4. When you get on the phone with the representative immediately address your self and the purpose of your call.

5. Once you introduce yourself, ask and write down the name and title of the representative you are talking to. Aslo write the date and time of the call.

6. 

   Before beginning your conversation ask that the representative record the conversation (if it's not already being monitored). This gives you added security to insure that your creditor has your request on file.

7. Once you begin to converse it is important that you remain Firm and stick to the purpose of your call which is to close your credit card account. The Customer Representatives are well trained and will try to persuade you into changing your mind. They ususally accomplish this by appearing to be sincerly concerned and considerate to your request. Occasionally they may even try to bribe you with lower APR or even added benefits. Refuse ALL!!

8. 

   Once your account is closed make sure to tell the representative to list your account as "closed at request of cardholder" rather than "closed by creditor" because this can dramatically effect your credit score.

9. 

   Last step is to request a confirmation letter to be mailed to your address. Once you receive the letter review it and make sure all the information is accurate.

   * If you must send a request in writing send it via Certified Mail with return receipt.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to check your credit score atleast 30 days after your receive your confirmation letter.

• You can access your credit score free by contacting www.annualcreditreport.com or calling 1.877.322.8228

• Pay off your balance in full before you close your account

• Do not send any letter to your Creditor or Credit Bureau unless it is sent Certified Mail with return receipt requested.