Keeping a CC "active"

[Bob B.]

Does anybody know how often you need to use a credit card to keep it as active? Once a month? Once a quarter? Once a year? Does it vary by issuer?

I was hoping to keep my credit card active by buying gasoline periodically, and immediately paying the balance. I just need to know how often I would need to use it to keep it active.

Thanks

[bjl584]

I have had a card that has been "active" for over 10 years now despite me not ever using it, but I had another one that the issuer cancelled due to inactivity after about 3 years, so I suppose it depends on the card issuer. If you are wondering about the time that you have on your particualar card, then I would call their customer service number and ask them. They should be able to tell you.

[BMEPhDinCO]

Once a month would be best, but it does depend on the issuer and the amount of credit you have...for example, a higher limit would probably be better to use more often, but a store card with a low limit can go for months at a time.

If you get rewards, use it more often. If you don't get rewards and it doesn't have a fee, use it whenever you feel comfortable, but no less than once every 3 months.

[JoshuaHeckathorn]

It varies by issuer. If you're really worried, try using it once a month for gas or something and I'm sure you'll never have a problem.

[ez1]

This may sound silly/obvious but ... can you just ask the company?

[ShawnaC123]

I try and use all my cards at least once a quarter. I usually pay part of my cable/internet bill online with a couple of them, or take them out at starbucks or anywhere I make a small purchase.

[naomibatac]

I only have two credit cards. What I do is to use them alternately. Yes, it is true that the definition of being active depends on the issuer and their policy also changes every now and then. So, the best is to ask your credit card issuer for their standing rule on being an active account.

[jteezie]

Once a year should be fine...

On another point, the biggest myth out there is that you have to use your CC to maintain your credit card history. This is not true.

You want to use your credit card to keep your account open so you have a good debit to credit ratio. Companies will cancel your cards if you you let them expire, this lowers your total available credit, so suddenly your debit to available credit ratio is higher, which lowers your FICO score.

[James Hoehner]

Unfortunately, its completely dependent upon the company. Some will let you keep them active if you don't use them, others, not so much.

I agree with what jteezie said, in terms of keeping the card open, to keep your debt to credit ration good.