Deactivation vs. Cancellation
Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, but it’s worth noting a distinction:
|
Deactivation (or temporary closure) |
Cancellation (or permanent closure) |
|---|---|
|
The card is unusable, but the account remains open. Some banks may offer this option, but it’s not universal. |
The account is fully closed. While canceled cards cannot be reactivated, you may be able to apply for a new card under the same program in the future. |
How to Deactivate Credit Card?
There are several compelling reasons to deactivate a credit card. You may want to stop using a card with high fees, or maybe you’re concerned about the potential for fraud on an inactive account. Whatever your motivation, the process is usually straightforward.