How to Dispose of Old Credit Cards and Checks Safely

To dispose of an old credit card, call the bank to confirm it is closed or replaced, then cut through the chip, the card number, the expiration date, and the magnetic stripe, and throw the pieces away in separate bags. Old checks and check stubs should be shredded, never tossed whole, because they show your bank account and routing numbers.

How to Destroy an Old Credit Card

1. Activate the new card first and update any automatic payments.
2. Cut through the chip. The chip holds account data, so cut it into pieces.
3. Cut the number, name, and expiration date into several pieces.
4. Cut the magnetic stripe lengthwise and across.
5. Split the pieces into different trash bags, or have them shredded.

Many cross-cut and commercial shredders handle plastic cards. Metal cards should not go in a home shredder. Some card issuers will mail you a prepaid envelope to return metal cards.

What to Do With Old Checks

• Unused checks from a closed account: shred them.
• Canceled checks and stubs: keep any that support your taxes or major purchases with your tax records, then shred. Most others can be shredded after about a year.
• Voided checks: shred them once they are no longer needed.
• Check boxes and deposit slips: these also show your account number, so shred them.

For how long to keep related records, see how long to keep bank statements.

Why It Matters

A thrown-away card or check gives a thief your name, account number, and sometimes your signature. That is enough to write fake checks or attempt card fraud. Learn more about how criminals exploit thrown-away documents.

If you have a drawer full of old checks, statements, and cards, a residential shredding service can destroy it all at once and give you a Certificate of Destruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to dispose of a credit card?

Cut through the chip, card number, expiration date, and magnetic stripe, then throw the pieces away in separate bags or have them shredded.

Can I shred a credit card in a home shredder?

Many cross-cut shredders can shred plastic cards. Check your shredder instructions. Do not put metal cards in a home shredder.

What should I do with checks from a closed bank account?

Shred them. Unused checks show your account and routing numbers.

How long should I keep canceled checks?

Keep checks that support your taxes or large purchases with your tax records. Most others can be shredded after about a year.

Can a shredding company destroy credit cards and checks?

Yes. Marshall Shredding destroys checks, cards, and other financial documents and provides a Certificate of Destruction.

Get Secure Shredding From Marshall Shredding

Marshall Shredding has protected Texas businesses and homeowners for more than 25 years. Call (866) 487-4733 or request a free quote. Every service includes a Certificate of Destruction.