Whether you have a credit card for business or personal use, you no doubt realize the value of having an account in your name. Credit cards are a godsend when you’re cash-strapped. But despite the positive aspects, there are clear dangers to using credit cards.
Lack of self-control can cause balances to spiral out-of-control and the inability to make payments can wreck your credit. For this reason, many consumers and business owners close their accounts. Some consumers depend on cash for future purchases; and rather than keep a business credit account, some enterprise owners apply for a merchant cash advance to fulfill their short-term financial needs.
Closing a credit card account is one way to keep finances under control; and using cash or a merchant cash advance prevents long-term debt. Before taking action, it’s important to understand the correct way to close accounts.
1. Canceling a credit card doesn’t make the balance disappear and it’s best to payoff the balance before closing the account. Continue to make your minimum payments or higher payments until the balance disappears. Put the credit card through a card shredder or cut the credit card in half to avoid accumulating additional charges.
2. Initiating a cancellation with an email, certified letter or fax is the wrong way to close a credit card. Always notify your credit card company by telephone first. Use the toll-free number listed on the back of your statement. A customer service rep will handle your request. Ask for this person’s name for your records and ask for a confirmation letter.
3. Follow-up with a letter after you’ve made contact with your credit card company. Include within this letter the date that you closed your account and the name of the rep that dealt with your request.
4. Credit card companies update credit reports on a monthly basis. Order your report after 30 days to verify that the credit card company closed your account. The account should reflect a zero balance and contain the statement, “closed at customer’s request.”
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