The process is simple. But a few checks are important first.

Closing a card affects rewards and sometimes credit score.

Better to plan it properly.

Step 1: Clear All Outstanding Dues

Before requesting closure, make sure:

• Total outstanding balance is zero
• No EMI conversions are active
• No pending transactions are unsettled
• No dispute cases are open

Even a small pending amount can delay closure.

Zero means fully cleared.

Step 2: Redeem Reward Points

Credit cards issued by HDFC Bank usually cancel unused reward points once the card is closed.

Before closing:

• Check reward balance
• Redeem available points
• Use cashback or vouchers

After closure, points are generally forfeited.

No reversal later.

Step 3: Remove Auto-Debits and Subscriptions

If the card is linked to:

• OTT subscriptions
• Utility bills
• Insurance payments
• EMI auto-pay

Update the payment method first.

After closure, payments will fail.

That can cause penalties.

Step 4: Raise Closure Request

There are multiple ways to close an HDFC credit card.

1. Through Customer Care

This is the most common method.

Steps usually include:

• Call HDFC credit card customer care
• Verify identity details
• Confirm zero outstanding
• Request card closure

Ask for service request number.

Always note it down.

2. Through NetBanking

Some customers can raise closure request through HDFC NetBanking.

Steps:

• Log in to NetBanking
• Go to Credit Card section
• Select the card
• Choose service request option
• Submit closure request

Availability may vary.

3. Through Written Request

If required, a written request can be submitted:

• Visit HDFC branch
• Submit closure letter
• Provide ID proof if needed

Processing may take a few days.

A Small Example

Card unused for 10 months.

Annual fee about to be charged.

Outstanding cleared before statement date.

Customer care contacted.

Closure confirmed in 7 working days.

Final statement showed zero balance.

Fee avoided.

Timing matters.

What Happens After Closure Request?

Once the request is accepted:

• Card becomes permanently inactive
• Further transactions are blocked
• Final statement may be generated

The physical card should be cut across chip and magnetic strip before disposal.

Security is still important.

Does Closing HDFC Credit Card Affect Credit Score?

It can.

Closing a credit card may:

• Reduce total available credit
• Increase credit utilisation ratio
• Slightly impact credit score

Closing an older card with high limit can affect more than a newer card.

Score usually stabilizes over time if other accounts remain healthy.

When Closing Makes Sense

Closing is reasonable if:

• Annual fee is not justified
• Card is rarely used
• Too many cards exist
• Better card has replaced it

Simplifying finances sometimes helps.

When to Think Twice

Pause before closing if:

• The card is one of the oldest
• It has high credit limit
• Credit score is still improving

Keeping an old card active with minimal use may support credit history length.

Length matters in scoring models.

How Long Does It Take?

Typical timeline:

• 5–10 working days

Always wait for written confirmation.

Do not assume closure without proof.

What If Annual Fee Is Charged?

If closure request was raised before fee posting:

• Contact customer care
• Request fee reversal

Proof of request date helps.

Late request may make fee payable.

Can Closed Card Be Reopened?

Usually no.

Once closed, the account cannot be reactivated.

A fresh application is required.

Approval depends on profile at that time.

Quick Checklist Before Closing

Before final decision, check:

• Outstanding balance cleared
• Reward points redeemed
• Auto-debits removed
• Impact on credit score understood

Planning avoids regret.

FAQ

Can HDFC credit card be closed online?

Yes, through customer care or NetBanking (if available).

Is zero balance mandatory?

Yes, full clearance is required.

Does closing affect credit history?

It may slightly impact utilisation ratio.

In Short

HDFC credit card can be closed through customer care or online service request.

Clear dues and redeem rewards before proceeding.

Always collect written confirmation after closure.

Still unsure whether closing or downgrading the card makes more sense right now?