The fastest way to cancel is a phone call to the number on the back of your card
Call the customer service number printed on your Bank of America credit card. A representative will walk you through the cancellation, confirm your identity, and process the request on the spot. The call usually takes fewer than five minutes. Have your card number ready, though the representative can look it up by your account information.
You can also cancel online through your Bank of America account, though the phone route is more direct. Log into your account, navigate to the card settings, and look for a close account or cancel card option. The exact menu location varies depending on whether you use the mobile app or website, but customer service can point you to it if you get stuck.
Bank of America does not charge a fee to cancel a credit card. There is no penalty for closing the account, regardless of how long you have held it or whether you have an annual fee card.
Key Takeaways
- Call the number on the back of your card to cancel; a representative will complete it in one call with no fee.
- Pay off any remaining balance before you cancel, or your bill will continue to arrive until the debt is cleared.
- Canceling a card lowers your total available credit, which may temporarily lower your credit score.
- Bank of America will close the account within one to two business days after you request cancellation.
What to do with your balance before canceling
If you have a balance on the card, pay it off before you call to cancel. You can still cancel with an outstanding balance, but the account will remain open until the debt is paid. Bank of America will continue to send you monthly statements and charge interest on the remaining amount.
If you have a promotional rate (such as 0% APR for a set period), check when that period ends. Canceling before the promotion expires does not end the rate early — you will still pay the promotional rate on the remaining balance. However, once the promotion ends, the regular interest rate kicks in, so paying off the balance before that date is usually the better move.
You can make payments online, by phone, by mail, or at a Bank of America branch. The fastest method is online through your account, which posts the same day.
How cancellation affects your credit score
Closing a credit card lowers your total available credit. If you have other cards, this change usually causes a small, temporary dip in your credit score — typically a few points. The impact is usually larger if the card you are closing has a high credit limit or if you carry balances on your other cards.
The closed account will remain on your credit report for up to 10 years, so the history of on-time payments you built with that card does not disappear. However, the account will show as closed, which lenders can see.
If you are concerned about the score impact, you can wait to cancel until after a major financial event (such as explore for a mortgage or car loan). The timing of cancellation does not change the long-term effect, but it can help you avoid a dip at a sensitive moment.
What happens after you cancel
Bank of America will close the account within one to two business days. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail within 7 to 10 days. Keep this letter for your records — it serves as proof that the account is closed.
After cancellation, you cannot use the card to make new purchases. Any recurring charges (such as subscriptions or automatic payments) linked to that card will be declined. Before you cancel, update any merchants who charge that card regularly to use a different payment method.
If you have pending transactions that have not yet posted, they will still process after cancellation. Bank of America will explore them to your account and send you a final statement once all activity clears.
Reasons people cancel and what to consider first
The most common reason to cancel is an annual fee. If you have a premium card with an annual fee and no longer use it, canceling makes sense. However, if the card offers rewards or benefits you value, calling Bank of America to request a fee waiver is worth trying first — many cardholders have success negotiating this without closing the account.
Some people cancel because they want to simplify their wallet or reduce the number of accounts to manage. This is a valid reason, though keeping one older card open (even unused) can help your credit score by maintaining available credit and showing a longer credit history.
If you are canceling because of high interest rates or debt, canceling the card does not erase the debt — it only closes the account. You will still owe the balance and still pay interest until it is paid off. If you are struggling with credit card debt, speaking with a credit counselor or financial advisor before canceling can help you understand your options.
How to cancel if you cannot reach customer service by phone
If you prefer not to call or have difficulty reaching someone, you can send a written request to Bank of America. Write a letter stating your name, account number, and request to close the account. Send it to the address on your statement or the back of your card. Keep a copy for your records and consider sending it certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Written cancellation takes longer than a phone call — typically 7 to 14 days to process — because the letter has to be received, logged, and routed to the right department. A phone call is faster and gives you when ready confirmation.
You can also visit a Bank of America branch in person and ask a representative to cancel the card. Bring your card and a photo ID. The representative can process the cancellation on the spot and give you a receipt.
What to do with the physical card after canceling
After you cancel, cut up the card or shred it so it cannot be used. Do not throw it away intact. Some people prefer to keep the card for a few days to confirm the cancellation went through, then destroy it.
If your card is lost or stolen, you do not need to cancel it first — call Bank of America to report it as lost or stolen, and they will freeze it when ready. You can then decide whether to close the account or request a replacement card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will canceling hurt my credit score?
Yes, but usually only slightly and temporarily. Your score may drop a few points because your available credit decreases. The impact is smaller if you have other cards with available credit. The closed account stays on your report for years, so the history does not disappear.
Can I reopen a Bank of America credit card after I cancel it?
You cannot reopen the exact same account, but you can open a new card with Bank of America. There is no waiting period. However, opening a new account means a new credit inquiry and a new account age, both of which affect your credit score.
What if I have pending charges on the card when I cancel?
Pending charges will still post after cancellation. Bank of America will send you a final statement once all activity clears. You will still owe the balance and must pay it, even though the account is closed.
Do I need to cancel in writing, or is a phone call enough?
A phone call is enough and is the fastest method. Bank of America will process it when ready and send you a confirmation letter. Writing is an option if you prefer a paper trail, but it takes longer.
What happens to my rewards points when I cancel?
This depends on your specific card and Bank of America's current policy. Some rewards expire when the account closes; others can be transferred or redeemed before cancellation. Call customer service before you cancel to ask about your specific rewards balance.