How to Stop Credit Cards From Closing Without You Knowing

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Don’t Let Your Credit History Disappear: How to Stop Cards From Closing Without You Knowing

Your oldest credit card could be quietly closed and your credit score could take a hit. Here’s how to prevent it.

Imagine this... You’ve had a credit card for 10+ years. You don’t use it much, but it’s your oldest account that's boosting your credit age, stability, and score.

Then one day, you check your credit report… and it’s gone. Closed.

Not by you but by the bank... And guess what? Your score just dropped.

Why This Happens
Lenders are allowed to close your credit cards if the account shows inactivity for too long. This protects them from fraud risks and cuts costs on unused accounts.

No warning. No alert. Often, the notice comes after the closure.

Why It Matters
When a credit card closes... especially an old one... it can hurt your credit score by shortening your credit history, increasing your credit utilization ratio and hurting your credit mix.

Real Talk... It’s Happened to Me
When I was shooting for that 850 credit score years ago, I opted into a Wells Fargo Home Improvement credit card to replace my HVAC. After I paid off the balance, I never used it again... And one day, poof, it was closed.

My credit score dropped. That’s when I learned that you have to actively protect your credit history.

How to Keep Your Cards Open
✅ Use every card at least once every 3-6 months
Even just a $5 purchase counts. You can actually ask the credit company how many months of inactivity will lead to closure.

✅ Automate a small recurring charge
A Netflix subscription, phone bill, or even a $1 charity donation works.

✅ Set reminders on your phone or calendar
Check every card at least twice a year.

✅ Monitor your accounts
Check for inactivity notices in emails or statements.

✅ Call your issuer
Some banks can note your file if you ask them not to close it but usage is still the best prevention.

Credit History is Your Superpower
Your length of credit history is 15% of your FICO score. Closing your oldest card can erase years of positive history. That’s like chopping off a big chunk of your financial resume.

Bottom Line

Don’t let years of hard-earned credit history vanish because of a technicality. A simple $5 coffee every few months can keep that card active and your credit score intact.

Protect your history. Protect your future.