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Can I Close A Credit Card With An Open Balance?

Firstly, the answer is… yes! Absolutely! You can close a credit card even if it has an open balance. 

Will my credit be affected?

Having a closed account with an open balance may affect your credit because credit models look at credit utilization a lot, which is how much percent of your credit limit you’re using (never use more than 9%). If you have a closed account with an open balance, then your utilization will obviously be above 100%, which may be very damaging to your credit.

If you’re only closing the credit card because of a high APR, then you might want to rather balance transfer the open balance to one of these great 0% APR credit cards, before closing the card. Make sure though, that you apply for a new card before you close the old one because once you close the old card, your credit will be damaged and you might not get approved for the new card.

Tip

Keep in mind that when you close an account you might lose reward points that you have accumulated on the account, so make sure to cash the points out before closing the account.

Can a credit card issuer close my account with an open balance?

Yes. Even if you still have an open balance, credit card issuers have the right to close the account if they suspect fraud, if you have a sudden drop in your credit score, or for any other reason they decide to close you down. But even if they have the right to close your account, they don’t have the right to change the APR you’re paying, for as long as it takes for you to pay up the balance.

If you get closed down by your credit card issuer for any reason while you still have an open balance and your credit is affected by the high utilization, then this is what I recommend. Either pay up the balance as soon as possible, or you can balance transfer the balance to an open credit card with a limit of at least above 300% percent of your balance.

Frequently asked questions
If I close a credit card with an open balance, how will it count for utilization?
A closed credit card with a balance is automatically considered a maxed out balance
What happens if I return an item on a closed credit card?
The money can still be refunded to your closed account. You will receive a check from the credit card for the refund
If I close my Amex Platinum Business card but I have other Amex personal cards open, do I lose my points?
As long as you have a card open that is part of the membership rewards program then you will not lose your points (no difference between personal and business)
Can Chase reopen a card that was closed within thirty days?
Yes. Try a secure message via online
Will a bank close my credit card if I don't use it?
They often do. Use your cards a minimum of once per six months
If I close my credit card will I still be able to eventually file an extended warranty protection claim?
No. That's why I recommend to use a card that you don't plan on closing for these type of purchases
If I have a credit on my credit card, what will happen if I close the card?
The bank will send you a check in the mail for the amount of the credit

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Sam Sam has nearly a decade's worth of experience educating his many readers on everything credit. Sam spends his days checking out credit cards for a full report, from the minute benefit details to the shebang of welcome bonuses. Plus studying the ins and outs of building proper credit. It’s his favorite pastime and he loves sharing it with others.

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Today's best offers

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Earn 250,000 points after spending $20,000 within the first 3 months.

More

Capital One Spark Cash Plus

Highest ever!! Earn $2,000 after spending $30,000 within the first 3 months. Plus, earn an additional $2,000 for every $500,000 you spend during the first year. You can earn the bonus unlimited times over the course of the first year!

More

United Business Card

Earn 100,000 miles after spending $5,000 within the first 3 months.

More
The smarter way of keeping track of your cards
Now available on Android and iOS
Get our app on

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