The short answer is no. Closing out an old credit card can actually lower your credit score.
If the balance is zero, that account is helping your utilization. Credit scoring models look closely at how much of your available credit you are using. Keeping balances low across multiple accounts is beneficial.
For example, if you have two cards with balances and one with no balance, that third card helps offset your overall utilization. If you close it, your utilization percentage increases, which can negatively impact your score.
Key takeaway: Keeping unused credit cards open (with a zero balance) can actually help your score.
Other Factors That Can Be Affected
Closing a card can also impact your credit mix and credit age. Both of these are factors used in your credit score calculation.
Older accounts help strengthen your profile. When you close them, you may lose some of that positive history over time.
Why Credit Cards Get Closed
Sometimes, the bank closes a credit card account — not you.
One common reason is inactivity. If you have not used a card in a long time, the lender may shut it down.
To avoid this, use your card every 6 to 8 months. You do not need to spend much. Even a small purchase that you pay off quickly can keep the account active.
Another reason cards get closed is due to changes in your credit profile. Lenders sometimes review accounts using a soft pull. If your score drops or your balances increase significantly, they may decide to close the account.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, it is better to keep credit cards open, especially if they have no balance and a long history.
Remember, it is their card and their money, and lenders do have the right to close accounts when they see risk.