close credit card with outstanding balance?

I'm sorry if there's already a thread on this, but I searched and couldn't find it.

I have a small balance on a credit card which I really want to get paid off and closed, only every time I go to close it something happens and I end up using it again. The rate is actually really high and I CAN manage without it.

Is it possible to ask the credit card company to close the account, even with the balance outstanding so that I can't use it any more. It's all well and good cutting up the card but I can always get a new one sent out (and have done in the past!)

Thanks for reading!
Staring point of debt £23,343:mad:
£12245 4/7/11:j

Comments

  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User] Posts: 35,242 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Photogenic Name Dropper
    If you really can't control your spending, then yes, ask them to close it. It will remain technically open until the balance is repaid, but you wont be able to spend. You also won't have to worry about getting rate increases, as closed accounts cannot be rate increased.
  • Thanks for the reply...yes not good at controlling my spending so removing temptation is the best option.
    Staring point of debt £23,343:mad:
    £12245 4/7/11:j
  • anirow
    anirow Posts: 18 Forumite
    But yes if it will remain unpaid your credit score might get hampered which might cause you problems in the future when you will go for mortgages.
  • Yes you can but just make sure you absolutely pay it off and don't forget. Some companies will also charge a fee just to close the account so be careful that if that they have one, you're paying that as well or your bureau will not see the account as closed.
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