What To Know
- Whether you’re downsizing your credit card portfolio, switching to a different rewards program, or simply no longer need the card, cancelling it is a straightforward process.
- Cancelling an unused or rarely used credit card can help improve your credit utilization ratio, which is a factor in your credit score.
- If you have a limited credit history, cancelling a credit card can negatively impact your credit score.
Are you considering cancelling your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card? Whether you’re downsizing your credit card portfolio, switching to a different rewards program, or simply no longer need the card, cancelling it is a straightforward process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in cancelling your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Information
Before you initiate the cancellation process, gather the following information:
- Your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card number
- Your account number
- Your current balance
- Any outstanding rewards or points
Step 2: Contact American Express Customer Service
There are two ways to contact American Express customer service to cancel your card:
- Phone: Call the number on the back of your card or visit [American Express’s website](https://www.americanexpress.com/us/customer-service.html) to find the appropriate number.
- Online: Log into your American Express account, navigate to the “Account Services” tab, and select “Cancel My Card.”
Step 3: Choose a Cancellation Date
When you contact customer service, you’ll be asked to choose a cancellation date. This date can be immediate or scheduled for a future date. If you choose a future date, your card will continue to be active until that date.
Step 4: Pay Off Outstanding Balance
Before your card can be cancelled, you must pay off any outstanding balance. You can make a payment online, over the phone, or by mail.
Step 5: Redeem Rewards Points
If you have any outstanding rewards points, it’s important to redeem them before cancelling your card. You can use your points to book flights, hotel stays, or other travel-related expenses.
Step 6: Close Your Account
Once your balance is paid off and your rewards points are redeemed, you can close your account. This will permanently close your card and prevent any further charges.
Step 7: Destroy Your Card
Once your account is closed, it’s recommended that you destroy your physical card to prevent fraud or identity theft. Cut it into several pieces and dispose of them securely.
What Happens After You Cancel Your Card?
After your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card is cancelled, the following will occur:
- Your account will be closed: Your card number will no longer be valid, and you will not be able to make any further purchases.
- Your rewards points will expire: If you have any remaining rewards points, they will expire within 30 days of your cancellation date.
- Your credit history will be updated: The cancellation will be reflected on your credit report, which could impact your credit score.
Benefits of Cancelling Your Card
There are several benefits to cancelling your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card:
- Reduce expenses: If you’re no longer using the card or don’t need the benefits it offers, cancelling it can save you money on annual fees and other charges.
- Improve credit score: Cancelling an unused or rarely used credit card can help improve your credit utilization ratio, which is a factor in your credit score.
- Simplify your finances: Having fewer credit cards can make it easier to manage your finances and avoid debt.
When to Consider Keeping Your Card
While cancelling your American Express Delta SkyMiles Card may be the right choice for some, there are situations where it may be beneficial to keep it active:
- Frequent travel: If you frequently travel on Delta Air Lines or its partner airlines, the card’s benefits, such as free checked bags and priority boarding, can be valuable.
- Rewards points: If you have accumulated a significant number of rewards points, it may be worthwhile to keep the card active to continue earning and redeeming points.
- Credit history: If you have a limited credit history, cancelling a credit card can negatively impact your credit score.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the cancellation fee for the American Express Delta SkyMiles Card?
A: There is no cancellation fee for the American Express Delta SkyMiles Card.
Q: How long does it take for my card to be cancelled?
A: Your card will be cancelled immediately if you choose an immediate cancellation date. If you choose a future date, your card will remain active until that date.
Q: Can I cancel my card online?
A: Yes, you can cancel your card online by logging into your American Express account and selecting “Cancel My Card” under the “Account Services” tab.
Q: What happens to my rewards points after I cancel my card?
A: Your rewards points will expire within 30 days of your cancellation date.
Q: Can I reinstate my card after it’s been cancelled?
A: In some cases, you may be able to reinstate your card if it’s been cancelled within the past 30 days. Contact American Express customer service to inquire about reinstatement.
