How to Close an SBI Credit Card: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaways

• Start by clearing all outstanding dues on your SBI Credit Card to avoid delays in closure.
   
• Shift any subscriptions or automatic bill payments linked to the card to another payment method.
   
• After the bank processes your request, ask for written confirmation to ensure the card is officially closed.

Closing an SBI credit card is a simple process, but you must follow the right steps to avoid future charges or complications. It usually involves clearing any outstanding balance, contacting SBI through the official helpline or written request, and confirming the closure once the bank processes your application.

Take the case of Meera, who had two SBI credit cards. She realised she was using only one regularly and wanted to close the other to avoid paying the annual fee. First, she cleared the pending balance on her unused card. Next, she called the SBI credit card helpline and followed up with an email request for closure. Within a few days, she received confirmation that her card account had been cancelled permanently, ensuring no extra charges would appear later.

In this blog, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of closing an SBI credit card, the precautions to take, and the points you should keep in mind.

Key Points to Consider Before Closing Your SBI Credit Card

Before closing your SBI Credit Card, it’s important to review a few key points to ensure the process is smooth and that you don’t lose out on rewards or face unexpected charges.

1. Redeem All Reward Points and Coupons
    

• Before canceling your credit card, ensure that all accumulated reward points and discount coupons are redeemed. Once the card is closed, you may lose any unredeemed rewards, which could otherwise benefit you.
   

2. Clear Outstanding Balances
    

• It's crucial to pay off any outstanding bills on your credit card before proceeding with cancellation. Clearing the balance will prevent you from incurring unnecessary interest charges and ensure that your account is settled.
   

3. Understand the Impact on Your Credit Score
    

• Closing a credit card can impact your credit score by reducing your total available credit, which may increase your credit utilization ratio. This could potentially lower your score, so it’s essential to assess if this is the right time to close the card.
   

4. Cancel Recurring Payments or Subscriptions
    

• If you have any automatic bill payments or subscriptions linked to the credit card, make sure to update those with a new payment method to avoid service interruptions.
   

5. Check for Any Pending Fees or Penalties
    

• Ensure there are no pending fees, such as annual charges or overdue penalties, that need to be cleared before cancellation. These might add up and need to be paid in full before closing the account.
   

6. Request a Written Confirmation of Closure
    

• After canceling your credit card, request a written confirmation from the bank that the card has been officially closed and the account is settled. This will be important for your records and future reference.
   

7. Consider Alternatives to Closing the Card
    

• If you want to maintain your credit score, consider downgrading to a no-fee card or asking for a lower credit limit instead of canceling your credit card entirely.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can close your SBI Credit Card confidently while protecting your credit score and avoiding future complications.

Let’s take the example of Ravi, whose experience shows the practical steps you should take when closing an SBI Credit Card to avoid problems later.
 

1. Redeem Rewards
   
   Before closing his SBI Credit Card, Ravi redeems his 5,000 reward points to avoid losing them.
    
2. Clear Outstanding Balances
   
   He pays off his ₹2,000 balance to avoid interest charges.
    
3. Impact on Credit Score
   
   Ravi checks with a financial advisor and decides to hold off on closing the card, as it could affect his credit score.
4. Cancel Subscriptions
   
   He updates his payment details for his Netflix subscription and other recurring payments linked to the card.
    
5. Check for Fees
   
   Ravi clears the annual fee of ₹499 to settle all dues.
    
6. Request Confirmation
   
   After cancellation, he requests written confirmation that the card is closed.
    
7. Consider Alternatives
   
   Instead of closing the card, Ravi downgrades to a no-fee card to maintain his credit score.
    

By following these steps, Ravi manages his SBI Credit Card wisely and avoids any negative impact on his finances.

What to Do if Your Account Is Restricted/Suspended/Terminated

• If your account is restricted, suspended, or terminated, follow the bank's guidance, which may include clearing any dues or resolving issues with customer support.

When Will Your Account Be Considered Closed?:

• Your account will be considered closed only after the payment of all outstanding amounts and the completion of the necessary steps, such as cutting your card diagonally.

Important Terms & Conditions for Different Card Types:
 

• To learn more about specific terms and conditions, choose your card type:
   
  • For a Personal Card, click here.
     
  • For a Corporate Card, click here.

By following these steps carefully, you can close your SBI Credit Card securely and ensure that your account is settled without future complications.

Bonus Tip: If you are unable to access the link for your card type, go directly to the official SBI Card website and navigate to the Terms & Conditions section, or contact the SBI Card helpline for the most accurate and updated details.

How to Close an SBI Credit Card Offline?

If you prefer an in-person process, you can close your SBI Credit Card offline. You can do this by visiting a branch or contacting customer care directly.

1. Clear Outstanding Dues
    

• Before requesting to close your card, ensure that you have cleared all outstanding balances, including any pending bills or fees. This will make the closure process smoother.
   

2. Contact SBI Customer Care (Offline)
    

• Visit your nearest SBI branch or call SBI Customer Care 022 22741216 to request the closure of your credit card. You can get the contact number for your nearest branch by checking the bank’s website or by visiting the branch in person.
   

3. Fill Out the Closure Request Form
    

• At the branch, you will need to fill out the credit card closure form. Provide the necessary details such as your credit card number, account details, and any other requested information.
   

4. Submit the Required Documents
    

• You may be asked to submit a valid ID proof and any other required documents as part of the closure process. Ensure you have your card and identification documents with you.
   

5. Return the Credit Card
    

• You will need to return your SBI credit card physically at the branch. It will be deactivated and then canceled.
   

6. Get Written Confirmation
    

• After submitting your request, make sure to ask for written confirmation of your credit card closure. This confirmation will include details like the date of closure and the statement confirming that the outstanding balance has been cleared (if applicable).
   

7. Follow Up on Any Pending Fees
    

• If there are any pending dues or charges, they must be settled before closure. You may also ask for a final statement from the bank, showing zero outstanding balance.
   

8. Ensure No Recurring Charges
    

• Ensure that any automatic bill payments or subscriptions linked to your credit card are updated with a new payment method before closing the card.

By following these offline steps carefully, you can close your SBI Credit Card smoothly and keep your account records clear of future complications.

Bonus Tip: Keep a copy of your closure request and bank confirmation for future reference, as it may help if any dispute arises later.

What Happens After You Request Credit Card Closure?

Once you place a closure request for your SBI Credit Card, the bank follows certain steps to complete the process and update your records.

1. Request Processing and Notification
    

• After you request to close your SBI credit card, the bank will process your request and close your account once all dues are cleared.
   
• You will receive a notification via email or SMS once the closure is complete.
   

2. Handling of Your Credit Card
    

• Cut the Card: Once your account is closed, you should cut your card diagonally to prevent misuse.
   
• The bank will inform credit bureaus about the closure within 30 days of processing your request.
   

3. Remaining Credit Balance
    

• If there is any remaining credit balance, the bank will transfer it to your linked bank account.

By understanding these post-closure steps, you can ensure that your SBI Credit Card account is settled properly and your financial records remain accurate.

What Happens to Your Credit History?

When you close your SBI Credit Card, it can affect both your credit history and your overall credit score in specific ways.
 

1. Impact on Credit History
    

• When you close your SBI credit card, your credit history is not deleted. The closed card will still show up on your credit report as a “closed account” and will remain part of your
  permanent credit record for several years. This history continues to influence your overall credit profile, especially your credit age and repayment track record.
   

2. Effect on Credit Score
    

• Closing a credit card could increase your credit utilization ratio, especially if the credit limit on that card is high.
   
• An increased utilization ratio may negatively impact your credit score, as it suggests a higher proportion of your available credit is being used.

By weighing these impacts carefully, you can decide whether closing your SBI Credit Card is the right move for your financial health.

How to Check the SBI Credit Card Closure Request?

After applying for closure, you can easily track the status of your SBI Credit Card request through different channels.

1. By Calling Customer Care
    

• Dial the SBI customer care toll-free number: 1800-180-1290 or 39-02-02-02 (with your local STD code).
   
• Provide card-related information and your details for verification.
   
• Ask the customer care representative to update you on the status of your credit card closure request.
   

2. By Visiting an SBI Branch
    

• Visit your nearest SBI branch for assistance with your credit card closure request.
   
• Fill out the necessary form to officially close your credit card account.
   
• An SBI bank representative will process your request and provide you with updates regarding the closure status.
   

3. By Writing a Letter
    

• Write a letter to SBI Card, addressed to:
   
• PO- Bag 28, GPO, New Delhi-110001.
   
• Include the following details in the letter: your name, address, card number, and contact details (phone number, email)
   
• Avoid sharing sensitive details like your card's CVV number or PIN for security reasons.

By using these options, you can stay informed about your SBI Credit Card closure request and ensure the process is completed smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Closing an SBI Credit Card

Closing an SBI Credit Card is a simple process, but many people make small mistakes that can cause trouble later. Keeping a few points in mind will help you close your card smoothly and without issues.

• Forgetting to clear outstanding dues before requesting closure.
   
• Ignoring unredeemed reward points or benefits linked to the card.
   
• Not updating automatic bill payments or subscriptions to another card or account.
   
• Disposing of the card without cutting it diagonally to prevent misuse.
   
• Failing to collect written confirmation from the bank after closure.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure your SBI Credit Card is closed safely and without leaving behind any financial loose ends.

Conclusion

Closing your SBI credit card is simple, but it must be done carefully. Start by clearing all dues and redeeming any reward points before raising a closure request through customer care, a branch visit, or a written letter. Once your request is approved, cut the card diagonally to prevent misuse, and finally, confirm with the bank that the account has been officially closed.

FAQ’s 

1. What should I do before applying for SBI credit card closure?
You must clear all pending dues, redeem your reward points, and stop using the card before initiating the closure process.

2. Can I close my SBI credit card through email?
Yes, you can request closure by writing an email to SBI’s official customer care with your card details and registered information.

3. Can the bank close my SBI Credit Card account without asking me?
The bank can close your SBI Credit Card account without asking you in certain situations. This happens if your card remains inactive for a long period, usually 6 months or more. It can also be closed due to negligence, such as failing to respond to communications or not updating your details.

4. How will I know that my SBI credit card closure is successful?
SBI will send you a written or email confirmation after closing your credit card. The closure will also reflect in your credit report as a “closed account.”

5. What are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind before or after starting the procedure to shut the credit card account?
You will have to clear the dues and be careful not to use the card before and after the initiation. Also, don’t share confidential information like credit card PIN, CVV number, etc. with the bank. Make sure to cut your credit card diagonally before disposing of it.

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‘Simplify Finance for Everyone.’ This is the common goal of our team, as we try to explain any topic with relatable examples. From personal to business finance, managing EMIs to becoming debt-free, we do extensive research on each and every parameter, so you don’t have to. Scroll up and have a look at what 15+ years of experience in the BFSI sector looks like.