Argos Store Card - Should I close it?

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Hiya,

I’m wondering whether to close my Argos account or not? I’ve help the account for about 12 years and have always used it responsibly. I haven’t used it for about 2 years.

I am hoping in the future to be able to get a mortgage so I am trying to get my credit file the best I can. I’ve read in certain places that closing old accounts etc is a good thing to do but also read keeping long standing accounts with good history open so I’m a little confused as to what to do!

I currently only have an interest free credit card with just over 1k on it that I am paying bit by bit each month. I’ve already paid off 2 large loans.

Please can someone point me in the right direction as to whether to close it or not?

Thanks in advance.

Comments

  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User] Posts: 35,242 Forumite
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    Although it's not the most useful account, at least it demonstrates you can get some credit beyond your sole credit card.

    I'd be looking to open up another credit card or two to get some backup, making sure you use them at least occasionally and then perhaps close the Argos account.
  • Candyapple
    Candyapple Posts: 3,384 Forumite
    First Post First Anniversary Combo Breaker Intrepid Forum Explorer
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    Keep the Argos account for now - it means that your average account history age will be longer which is a good thing. After you get your mortgage if you've no use for it - close it.

    In the meantime make sure your bank account(s), mobile phone, being on the electoral roll etc are all showing on your files across all 3 credit reference agencies.

    The free versions to check your credit files are below:
    Experian: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/creditclub
    Equifax: https://www.clearscore.com
    Call Credit: https://www.noddle.co.uk
    I'm a Board Guide on the Credit Cards, Loans, Credit Files & Ratings boards. I'm a volunteer to help the boards run smoothly, and I can move and merge threads there. Any views are mine and not the official line of moneysavingexpert.com
  • brunettebimbo
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    Candyapple wrote: »
    Keep the Argos account for now - it means that your average account history age will be longer which is a good thing. After you get your mortgage if you've no use for it - close it.

    In the meantime make sure your bank account(s), mobile phone, being on the electoral roll etc are all showing on your files across all 3 credit reference agencies.

    The free versions to check your credit files are below:
    Experian: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/creditclub
    Equifax: https://www.clearscore.com
    Call Credit: https://www.noddle.co.uk

    Fantastic. Thank you!

    I’ve been regularly checking my accounts and they are all correct. I did have the odd thing that wasn’t right which have been removed. I’ve also been financially disassociated from my soon to be ex husband too.
  • Candyapple
    Candyapple Posts: 3,384 Forumite
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    It seems like you are on the right path then. Good luck for when you do eventually apply for your mortgage :)
    I'm a Board Guide on the Credit Cards, Loans, Credit Files & Ratings boards. I'm a volunteer to help the boards run smoothly, and I can move and merge threads there. Any views are mine and not the official line of moneysavingexpert.com
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