How will requesting a new credit card but not activating it affect my credit?
I requested a new credit card with a lower interest rate than my two cards now with the intentions of paying off the two cards with my new card. The new card credit limit is not enough to pay off the other two, however, so I don’t want it anymore. I requested it online, was “approved,” and just received it in the mail today. What will happen if I just throw it away without activating it?
July 1st, 2010 at 11:31 pm
It is on your record as an open account whether or not you activate the card. If you don’t want the account, you have to close it.
July 1st, 2010 at 11:42 pm
if i am not mistaken, it is already tied to your social security number. if you choose not to activate it, nothing happens. contact the credit card company to make sure that they don’t issue you another card due to non-activation. Do NOT close the credit card!!!!! Your score will go down by at least 20-30 pts. (my score did so I know what I am talking about)
July 2nd, 2010 at 12:01 am
I think if you do not activate it, the creditor will close it down. Why not activate it, then throw the card away or put in a sock drawer. Just don’t use it. The positive tradeline cannot hurt. Keep in mind you also got an inquiry when you applied for this card and it too will affect your credit especially if it is not associated with a tradeline on your report.