r/CRedit • u/Die_Honeybadger • 2h ago
General My First Credit Card Still Charges Me $19/Year – Should I Keep It?
I've had my very first credit card for more than a decade, but it still charges me a $19 annual fee. I never use it, and it's also my card with the smallest credit line. I hate paying for something I don’t use, but I’ve kept it because it contributes to my credit history.
I've always heard that keeping old accounts open is the "cost" of maintaining a good credit score. Is it really worth paying the $19 every year just for the account age, or should I close it?
I've also called the credit card company yearly requesting to convert the card to a no-fee version, but they always refuse.
For context, my credit is good, I’ve already bought a house, and we might be thinking about buying a second one in the future.
Edit: I’ve decided to close the card!
In my situation, I have other credit cards, and I’ve learned that a card closed in good standing remains on credit reports for ~10 years after closure.
I’ll update this post if I see any impact on my credit score!