How to close your American Express card
You can close an American Express card by calling their customer service line, speaking to a representative, and requesting account closure. American Express will process the closure over the phone — you do not need to visit a branch or mail anything in. The card stops working when ready, though you remain responsible for any outstanding balance until it is paid off.
Before you call, pay down your balance as much as possible. American Express will not close an account with an unpaid balance, and they will not waive interest or fees just because you are closing the card. If you have rewards points, use them or transfer them before closure — most programs end when the account closes.
Key Takeaways
- Call American Express customer service at the number on the back of your card to request closure; a representative will complete it over the phone.
- Pay your full balance before closing, because American Express will not close an account with money owed.
- Redeem or transfer any rewards points before closure, since most rewards programs end when the account closes.
- Closing a card can lower your credit score temporarily because it reduces your total available credit, but the impact fades over time.
- Request written confirmation of closure after the call and keep it for your records.
Gather your information before calling
Have your card number, account number, and Social Security number ready when you call. American Express uses these to verify your identity before discussing your account. You can find your account number on your statement or in the American Express mobile app.
Check your recent statements for any pending charges or subscriptions tied to the card. Cancelling the card does not automatically cancel recurring payments — you will need to update those separately with the merchants involved. Make a list of any subscriptions (streaming services, software, insurance, gym memberships) so you can switch them to another payment method before closure.
Pay off your balance completely
American Express requires a zero balance before they will close your account. If you have a balance remaining, the representative will tell you to pay it first and call back. You can pay online through your American Express account, by phone during the same call, or by mail.
If you are closing because of a dispute or a problem with a charge, tell the representative before requesting closure. They may be able to resolve the issue without closing the account. If you still want to close after that conversation, you can proceed, but settling the dispute first sometimes avoids complications.
Call American Express and request closure
The phone number is on the back of your card. When you reach a representative, say clearly that you want to close the account. They will ask why you are closing — you do not have to give a detailed reason, but some representatives may offer retention deals or lower interest rates if you are closing for cost reasons. You can accept or decline.
The representative will confirm your balance is zero, verify your identity, and process the closure. The entire call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Ask them to confirm the closure date and request that they email or mail you written confirmation. Write down the representative's name, the date and time of the call, and the confirmation number they provide.
Handle any remaining balance after closure
If you could not pay the full balance before closure, American Express will close the account but you still owe the money. Interest continues to accrue on the remaining balance at your current rate. You can pay by mail, phone, or online through your account portal — the account stays accessible for payments even after closure.
If you have a large balance you cannot pay when ready, contact American Express before closing to discuss a payment plan. Some cardholders negotiate a lower interest rate or a structured payoff schedule, though American Express is not required to offer this. Having the conversation before closure sometimes gives you more options than trying to negotiate after.
Understand the credit score impact
Closing a credit card lowers your credit score temporarily because it reduces your total available credit. The impact is usually small if you have other open accounts, but it can be larger if this is one of your only cards. The score drop typically fades within a few months as the closure ages.
If you are planning to explore for a mortgage, car loan, or other credit in the next few months, closing a card right before that process can work against you. If you are not borrowing soon, the timing of closure matters less. Keeping the card open but unused is another option if you want to preserve your available credit without using the card.
Keep records and monitor your credit report
Save the written confirmation American Express sends you. Keep it with your financial records for at least a year. If a charge appears on the card after closure, you have proof of when the account was closed and can dispute it.
Check your credit report 30 to 60 days after closure to confirm the account shows as closed. You can view your credit report free once per year at annualcreditreport.com. If the account still shows as open or active, contact American Express and provide them with your confirmation number. Errors on your credit report can affect your score and your ability to borrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay a fee to close my American Express card?
No. American Express does not charge a fee to close an account. If a representative mentions a fee, ask to speak to a supervisor — this is not standard practice.
What happens to my rewards points when I close the card?
Most American Express rewards programs end when you close the card, so you lose any points you have not redeemed. Some cards allow you to transfer points to a partner airline or hotel program before closure. Check your rewards program terms or ask the representative what options you have before you close.
Can I reopen the card after I close it?
American Express may allow you to reopen a recently closed account, but it is not may provide. If you think you might want the card back, ask the representative about reopening options before you close. If you close and change your mind later, call back and ask — they may be able to restore it, but do not count on it.
Will closing the card hurt my credit score permanently?
No. The score drop from closure is temporary and usually fades within a few months. The longer-term impact depends on your overall credit history and how many other accounts you have open. If you have several credit cards and good payment history, closing one card has minimal lasting effect.
What if I have an outstanding balance I cannot pay right now?
American Express will not close the account until the balance is zero. You can ask the representative about a payment plan or lower interest rate, but you will need to pay something before closure. If you cannot pay the full balance, you can keep the account open and pay it down over time, then close it later.