How to Properly Dispose of Metal Credit Cards

If you're done using a metal credit card, it's essential to dispose of it properly to prevent identity theft and protect the environment.

You can recycle metal credit cards by cutting them into small pieces and placing them in a recycling bin, as they are made from a combination of metals such as stainless steel and aluminum.

Cutting the card into small pieces helps prevent it from being used as a makeshift tool or for other malicious purposes.

Many credit card companies also offer mail-in recycling programs for metal credit cards, making it easy to recycle them without having to sort them.

Explore further: Why Are Some Credit Cards Metal

Cutting up a metal credit card with household scissors is not a good idea, as it can damage the scissors and leave readable card information exposed.

You can mail it back to the issuer, which is the simplest and safest way to dispose of a metal credit card. If your metal credit card is up for renewal, the issuer will probably send a prepaid envelope for the old card when mailing out the new card.

Contact your issuer to request a prepaid envelope to dispose of the card safely. You can call the number on the back of the card or send a secure message to your issuer.

For example, when American Express sends a replacement card, it also sends an addressed return envelope to mail back an old metal card for destruction.

You can destroy a metal credit card yourself, but be sure to do it safely. Metal cards cannot be shredded with a typical at-home paper shredder, as it can damage the device.

Chase metal credit cards explicitly state "Do not shred" on the back, so it's best to explore other options. You may want to get a pair of tin scissors to cut the card, as regular scissors won't work.

Destroying a metal card can be a bit tricky, so it's essential to be creative and cautious. Bending the card until it snaps is not recommended, as you may injure yourself with flying shards or sharp cuts.

If you choose to shred the card, make sure your shredder is equipped to handle metal and can process metal credit cards without damaging the mechanism. Burning a metal credit card is not recommended, as it can release toxic fumes and is not effective in destroying the card's data.

You might like: Credit Cards Not Working

To safely dispose of a metal credit card, it's essential to avoid common mistakes. Attempting to cut it up with household scissors can damage them and leave your personal information exposed.

Not all shredders can handle metal credit cards, so make sure to check your shredder's specifications before attempting to shred your card. If your shredder can handle metal, it's a great option.

Using the right tool is crucial when disposing of a metal credit card. Tin snips are a great option as they can easily cut through the card.

You can mail your metal credit card back to the issuer for safe disposal.

Typically, if you're renewing your card, the issuer will send a prepaid envelope for the old card.

If you don't receive a prepaid envelope or close your account, simply call or send a secure message to your issuer to request one.

For example, Chase mailed a prepaid envelope when my Sapphire Reserve was approaching its expiration.

Metal credit cards are a unique challenge when it comes to disposal. They can't be shredded with typical at-home paper shredders, which can damage the device.

You'll want to get a pair of tin scissors to cut through the metal card safely. Regular scissors won't be able to get the job done, and you don't want to risk damaging them.

Tin snips are the easiest way to dispose of metal credit cards. They can handle the heavy-duty material with ease, making quick work of the job.

If you're concerned about safety, you can also use a shredder specifically designed to handle metal credit cards. Just make sure it's rated for the task and follows the manufacturer's guidelines.

Some metal credit cards are made with a metal core encased in plastic, while others may be made from a single piece of metal. Knowing the type of metal your card is made of can guide you toward the best method for its destruction.

Metal credit cards can be heavy, with some weighing as much as 27 grams. You'll want to use a tool specifically designed for cutting through metal to avoid damaging your regular scissors or paper shredder.

Intriguing read: What Credit Score Does Chase Use for Credit Cards