Can I reopen a closed credit card?

Open credit cards generally do a lot more good for your credit score than closed ones do, because it’s better to have a longer history on your credit report. However, if you’ve had your account closed due to inactivity, by accident, or closed it yourself and just want to reopen it, here’s all you need to know. 

When can I reopen my credit card?

There are usually three main factors to consider when reopening a closed credit card. 

1. Length of time: If you’ve closed a credit card in the last few weeks, you can probably convince your bank to reopen it. However, if your credit card has been closed for more than 6 months, chances are that you won’t be able to reopen it 
2. Reason for closing: You can reopen your credit card if it was closed due to inactivity by the issuer or if you closed the account yourself. If it was closed due to fraud, bankruptcy or any activities that violate the bank’s terms of service, it can’t be reopened
3. Your credit card issuer: Each bank has a different policy on reopening credit cards. We’ll be going through the policies of individual banks in a later section 

It’s important to note that when you reopen your credit card, your rewards points may not transfer over exactly. Therefore, it is not a decision to be taken lightly.

How do I reopen my credit card? 

1. Check whether your card issuer reopens accounts: If your card issuer generally doesn’t open accounts, you probably don’t have a good chance of reopening yours. However, you can still call customer service and be extremely polite and courteous while explaining your situation
2. Have all your details ready: You’ll need to have your 16-digit credit card number, social security number, date of birth and address handy. This is so that the bank can locate your account number in their records 
3. Call customer service: Call the customer service number listed on the back of your credit card as they will generally be the most knowledgeable people and it will be easier than going through the centralized customer service number. If you don’t have your card anymore, look up the customer service number for your credit card online. 
4. Explain your reasons: Banks will basically want to ascertain that your credit card has not been closed due to a violation of their terms of service. If you prove this, you should be able to open up your credit card. You may also need to request a credit inquiry to show that you are in good financial standing.

What if they don’t reopen my credit card?

Don’t panic! You can usually apply for another account with the same bank. However, keep in mind that you probably won’t be able to apply for the same credit card for the next 2-4 years. Although an open credit card is better for your credit score, if you stay on top of your payments and credit reports with a new card, it should even out in the long term. 

Individual reopening policies

American Express: 30 days after closing, not possible for co-branded cards 

Bank of America: 6 months after closing 

Barclays: Depends on individual circumstances. Accumulated points may be affected

Capital One: Unclear policy. Generally seems like accounts cannot be reopened but individual exceptions can be made 

Chase: 30 days after closing 

Citi: Depends on individual circumstances. Accumulated points may be affected and the point bonuses will only kick in after 24 months 

Discover: Depends on individual circumstances 

Conclusion 

Closing a credit card is not a decision that should be made lightly, as it can have immense implications for your rewards programs and your credit history. However, if you have all the correct information and are aware of your card issuers' policy, it is possible to reopen a closed card.