What to Consider Before Closing a Credit Card You Rarely Use

Closing a card can simplify your finances, but “rarely used” is not by itself a reason to close. Make the decision based on what the account contributes and what it costs you to keep.

Reasons keeping can make sense

An older account, a meaningful portion of your available credit, a no-longer-offered benefit, or a useful backup role can all be reasons to pause before closing.

Reasons closing can make sense

High fees with little value, difficulty controlling spending, security concerns, or a product that no longer fits your needs are valid reasons to consider closure. Your financial safety matters more than optimizing a metric.

Compare the before and after

Look at balances, total available credit, fees, benefits, and your ability to manage the account. If uncertain, ask the issuer whether a product change or different account option is available.