What happens if you don’t use your store credit card depends on how long the period of inactivity is. If you decide not to use your store card for a few months, then most likely nothing will happen. However, if you don’t use your card for longer periods, like 12 months or more, then you may experience certain consequences.
What Happens If You Don't Use Your Store Credit Card
- Nothing If It’s Only for a Few Months: Short periods of inactivity should have no impact on your store credit card account. Your account will remain open, and you can continue to use it when needed without any adverse effects.
- The Issuer Could Lower Your Credit Limit: Prolonged periods of inactivity may prompt the card issuer to reduce your credit limit. This action will lower your overall credit utilization ratio, which can affect your credit score.
- You May Forfeit Your Rewards: Accumulated rewards or points might expire if the card remains inactive for an extended period. The exact amount of time may differ, depending on the issuer.
- The Issuer Could Close Your Account: Inactivity for an extended period may lead the card issuer to close your account. This can impact your credit score, especially if the store credit card was one of your oldest accounts.
To avoid any negative consequences associated with inactivity, it's recommended to periodically use your store credit card, even for small purchases. However, each credit card issuer may have different policies regarding account inactivity. So, if you plan on setting your store card aside for a while and are worried about what might happen, it’s worth contacting your issuer to get more information.
This answer was first published on 03/29/24. For the most current information about a financial product, you should always check and confirm accuracy with the offering financial institution. Editorial and user-generated content is not provided, reviewed or endorsed by any company.
