You probably have a few credit cards with rewards programs, cash-back incentives and other perks. But what happens when you no longer want or need one of your rewards credit cards? How do you remove it from your arsenal so you’re not left with too many at once? You close it. Read on to learn how to close an RBL credit card. Instead of simply deleting your card or handing it to the issuer, there are several ways you can deactivate an unused rewards credit card without destroying your relationship with the company.
If you don’t want to keep the card for future use, closing it is best. Closing an RBL credit card reduces the chance of fraud and decreases your identity theft risk. These steps will put you on the path toward closing that card for good:
Check Your RBL Credit Card Balance and the Terms
Before you close your rewards card, check your balance and the terms of your current credit card agreement. Credit card companies typically allow you to keep your card open until the cardholder has paid off the full balance of their account.
Ideally, you want to close your card before paying off that balance. Otherwise, any subsequent charges will end on the card you try to close. This could lead to overspending, especially if you have multiple cards.
If you’re unsure how much you owe on each one, you can use an online credit card calculator to determine exactly how much you owe. Please review the terms of your current credit card accounts before closing them.
Some issuers require you to give them 30 or 60 days notice before closing a card, during which time you’ll still have access to your account.
Transfer Your Balance(s)
If your RBL rewards card has a lower interest rate than your other cards, you can move your debt from a higher rate to a lower interest rate card. You’ll have to close the card you’re transferring from, though, and you’ll have to choose a card you’re confident you’ll be able to pay off.
If you’ve been paying the minimum balance on your rewards card, you may be able to transfer the balance to another card with a lower interest rate. Before transferring your debt, check your new card’s terms to ensure you’re not incurring any fees for the transfer.
When you close the card from which you’re transferring the debt, you may get a break on the interest the card’s issuer charges you.
Contact the Issuer
Some credit card providers allow you to close your card online or over the phone. If this is an option, try calling the company yourself instead of having a loved one call you. If you don’t have a direct relationship with the issuer, you may be more likely to get your card closed quickly.
If you want to close your card but don’t want to speak to a representative, you can try emailing the company, but it’s more likely that you’ll get a response if you call.
Ensure you get their name and employee ID number to follow up. You may also request a written confirmation of the card closure to keep as proof.
Cancel Your Cards (Depending on Issuer)
If closing your card isn’t an option, or you don’t want to close your card, you can try to get the issuer to close the account. While this is not an ideal solution, you can get the issuer to close your card by letting them know you no longer use it.
You may be able to get them to close the card for you if you let them know that you don’t use it anymore.
Tips for Closing RBL Credit Cards
Before you close one of your rewards credit cards, ensure you’ve gotten all the benefits you can. If you’ve trouble redeeming your rewards, visit the company’s website to learn their redemption policy.
The RBL Credit card website may provide tips on redeeming your rewards. Rewards programs typically have specific timelines for redeeming your points. Ensure you’ve given yourself enough time to use your points before closing your card.
Some rewards cards expire after a few years, so ensure you’re not losing rewards you’ve worked hard for.
Summing up
RBL credit cards are an easy way to earn rewards and other benefits. However, it’s important to ensure you use the card responsibly and pay it off on time each month.
If you no longer want or need one of your rewards credit cards, don’t delete it or hand it in to the issuer. Instead, please close it to protect your identity and reduce the chance of fraud. Follow these steps to close your card for good.