How to Cancel Your American Eagle Credit Card in 6 Simple Steps

You’ve decided to cancel your American Eagle credit card. Maybe you’re simplifying your finances or cutting high-interest payments. Either way, you’re in the right place.

Canceling a credit card doesn’t have to be complicated. You can complete the process in just a few straightforward steps.

Important: Closing a credit card account may affect your credit score. Consider speaking with a financial advisor before you proceed.

Follow These 6 Steps to Cancel Your American Eagle Credit Card

Step 1: Evaluate Your Situation

Before you cancel, take a moment to think. Why do you want to close this account? Are you reducing debt or simplifying your wallet?

Your reasons matter because they’ll guide your next financial decisions. Make sure canceling is truly the best choice for your situation.

Step 2: Pay Off Your Balance

You cannot cancel a card with an outstanding balance. Pay off every penny before you proceed.

You can make your payment through online banking, by check, or over the phone. Call customer service if you need help with payment options.

Wait for the payment to clear completely before moving forward.

Step 3: Redeem Any Remaining Rewards

Don’t leave money on the table. Check your account for accumulated rewards or points.

Redeem everything before you cancel. Once the card is closed, you’ll lose any unused rewards forever.

Log into your account online or call customer service to check your balance.

Step 4: Contact Customer Service

Once your balance is zero and rewards are redeemed, you’re ready to cancel. Call the American Eagle Real Rewards Visa Credit Card customer service line at 1-866-913-6765.

Clearly state that you want to cancel your card. The representative may ask why you’re canceling.

They might offer incentives to keep the card open. Stay firm if you’ve made your decision.

If you’re dealing with multiple credit cards and need help managing payments, consider speaking with our partner Cambridge Credit Counseling about creating a debt management plan.

Step 5: Confirm the Cancellation

After your phone call, request written confirmation of your cancellation. Ask them to mail or email this documentation.

Keep this document in a safe place. You may need it if disputes arise later.

Write down the date, time, and name of the representative you spoke with.

Step 6: Check Your Credit Report

Wait about 30 days after canceling. Then check your credit report to verify the account shows as closed.

The account should display as “Closed” or “Account Closed at Consumer’s Request.” If it doesn’t, contact the credit card company immediately.

You’re entitled to free credit reports from all three bureaus annually.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Cancellation

Keep Detailed Records

Document every interaction with customer service. Note dates, times, and what you discussed.

Save emails, letters, and confirmation numbers. Good records protect you if problems occur.

Destroy the Physical Card

Once your account is confirmed closed, destroy the card. Cut through the chip and magnetic stripe.

Dispose of the pieces in separate trash bags for added security.

Update Recurring Payments

Check for any automatic payments linked to this card. Switch them to a different payment method immediately.

Common recurring charges include subscriptions, utilities, and membership fees. Missing these could result in late fees or service interruptions.

How Canceling Affects Your Credit Score

Closing a credit card impacts your credit in two main ways. First, it reduces your total available credit.

Second, it may affect your credit history length. Older accounts help your score more than newer ones.

Your credit utilization ratio will increase if you carry balances on other cards. Aim to keep utilization below 30% across all cards.

If you’re working to rebuild your credit after closing accounts, our partner Kikoff can help you establish positive payment history.

Alternatives to Canceling Your Card

Keep It Open With Minimal Activity

Consider keeping the card open but using it sparingly. Make one small purchase every few months.

Pay the balance in full immediately. You maintain the credit line without accumulating debt.

Negotiate Better Terms

Call customer service and ask for a lower interest rate. Explain you’re considering cancellation.

They may offer improved terms to keep your business. You lose nothing by asking.

Downgrade to a No-Fee Card

If annual fees are your concern, ask about downgrading. Many issuers offer no-fee versions of their cards.

You keep the account open and maintain your credit history.

What Happens After You Cancel

Your account will close within a few business days. You’ll no longer be able to make purchases.

The closed account remains on your credit report for up to 10 years. It continues to contribute to your credit history during this time.

You’re still responsible for any charges made before cancellation. Review your final statement carefully.

If you’re struggling with credit card debt on multiple accounts, a debt management plan through Cambridge Credit Counseling could help you lower interest rates and consolidate payments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Canceling Before Paying Off the Balance

You cannot close an account with a remaining balance. The issuer will refuse your cancellation request.

Pay everything off first, then cancel.

Forgetting About Pending Transactions

Pending transactions will still post after you cancel. Wait a few days after your last purchase.

Check for any pending charges before you call customer service.

Losing Your Cancellation Confirmation

Always get written confirmation and keep it safe. Without proof, you may face disputes later.

Store the document with other important financial records.

Canceling Too Many Cards at Once

Closing multiple accounts rapidly can significantly damage your credit score. Space out cancellations if you need to close several cards.

Wait at least six months between closures.