Inactive Credit Cards: How Not Using Your Card Can Lower Your Credit Score

It’s not uncommon for people to stop using a credit card for months. But letting your card sit idle for too long can quietly impact your credit score — sometimes in ways you may not expect.

Keeping your card unused can keep your utilisation ratio low — good for your score. However, if the issuer lowers your credit limit or closes the card due to inactivity, your total available credit shrinks. This can cause your utilisation ratio to spike, pulling your credit score down.

Issuers often close credit cards after prolonged inactivity. This can hurt your score by reducing your average credit age and lowering your available credit, which again impacts your utilisation ratio.

Since payment history accounts for a major chunk of your credit score, not using your card means there are no regular payments being reported — missing out on a key opportunity to strengthen your credit profile.

Use the card periodically: Make small purchases every few months and repay them promptly.

Automate usage: Consider linking the card to a small recurring bill or subscription.

Monitor for inactivity clauses: Some cards may come with inactivity or annual fees. Keep an eye on the terms.

Keeping a credit card dormant may appear harmless, but it could quietly chip away at your credit score. A better approach is to use it sparingly but consistently, and always pay on time.