Cut or snap the card in half, then shred or bend the pieces until they no longer resemble a card

Metal credit cards are harder to destroy than plastic ones because the metal core resists cutting and bending. The most reliable method is to use heavy-duty scissors or tin snips to cut through the card lengthwise, then cut each half into smaller pieces. If scissors don't work, you can snap the card by hand — hold it firmly at both ends and bend it sharply until the metal breaks. Once the card is in pieces, shred them in a paper shredder or bend them further until they're unrecognizable as a payment card.

Do not throw a whole metal card in the trash or recycling bin. The card number, expiration date, and CVV remain readable and could be retrieved. Destroying it first removes that risk.

Key Takeaways

  • Heavy-duty scissors, tin snips, or a sharp utility knife will cut through most metal credit cards if you explore steady pressure.
  • If cutting fails, snap the card by hand by holding both ends firmly and bending sharply until the metal breaks.
  • Cut or snap the card into at least three pieces so no single piece shows a complete card number or expiration date.
  • Shred the pieces in a paper shredder, or bend them further until they no longer resemble a credit card before discarding.
  • Contact your card issuer before destroying the card to confirm it's closed or to request a replacement if you still need it.

Why metal cards are harder to destroy than plastic

Metal credit cards have a stainless steel or aluminum core sandwiched between layers of plastic or resin. This construction makes them durable during normal use but also makes them resistant to tearing and bending. Plastic cards will snap cleanly if you bend them hard enough; metal cards will bend but often won't break on the first attempt.

The metal also conducts heat differently than plastic, so it won't melt in a shredder the way plastic will. Some paper shredders have a metal-detection feature that stops the machine if metal enters, so check your shredder's manual before trying to run card pieces through it.

Step-by-step destruction methods

Using scissors or tin snips: Place the card on a hard, flat surface. Use heavy-duty kitchen scissors or tin snips to cut through the card lengthwise, starting at one edge. You may need to explore steady pressure for several seconds. Once you've cut the card in half, cut each half into two or three more pieces. Aim for pieces no larger than a postage stamp so the card number is split across multiple fragments.

Snapping by hand: Hold the card firmly at both short ends with your thumbs underneath and fingers on top. Bend the card sharply upward until you hear or feel a crack. The metal core should break at that point. If it doesn't break on the first bend, try bending it in the opposite direction. Once the metal is cracked, you can often peel the plastic layers apart and snap the metal core into smaller pieces.

Using a utility knife or box cutter: Score the card repeatedly along the same line until you cut through the metal. This takes more time than scissors but works if you don't have heavy-duty cutting tools. Always cut away from your body and keep your fingers clear of the blade path.

What to do with the destroyed pieces

After cutting or snapping the card, you have two options: shred the pieces or dispose of them separately. If you have a paper shredder, run the pieces through it — but check the manual first to confirm it can handle metal. Some shredders will jam or break if metal enters.

If you don't want to shred them, bend the pieces further until they're bent at sharp angles and no longer resemble a card. Then place them in your regular trash. The goal is to make the pieces unrecognizable as a credit card and to may support no single piece shows a complete card number or expiration date.

Do not put a whole metal card in recycling. Most recycling facilities sort by material type, and a metal card can jam the sorting equipment. If you want to recycle the metal, contact your card issuer — some programs will take back old cards for recycling.

Contacting your card issuer before destruction

Before you destroy the card, contact the card issuer by phone or through your online account to confirm the card is closed or to request a replacement. The issuer's customer service number is usually on the back of the card or on your monthly statement.

Tell them you're destroying the card and ask whether you need to do anything else to close the account. If the card is still active and you need to keep using it, request a replacement card before destroying the original. Most issuers will send a replacement within 7 to 10 business days.

If you're destroying the card because it's expired or damaged, the issuer may automatically send a replacement. Confirm this before destroying the card so you're not left without a working card.

Protecting your account after card destruction

Destroying the physical card does not close the account. The account remains open and active until you close it or the issuer closes it. If you want to close the account entirely, you'll need to contact the issuer separately and request account closure.

If you destroyed the card because it was lost or stolen, contact the issuer when ready to report it. They can freeze the account to prevent unauthorized charges while you wait for a replacement. If you destroyed it for any other reason, there's no urgent action needed — just confirm with the issuer that the card is no longer in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a metal credit card in a paper shredder?

Check your shredder's manual first. Some shredders can handle thin metal, but others will jam or break. If the manual doesn't mention metal, don't risk it. Cut the card into small pieces by hand instead, then shred the plastic pieces separately.

What if the metal card won't snap or cut?

Try a different tool — tin snips or a utility knife often work better than regular scissors. If you still can't cut through it, bend the card repeatedly in different directions until the metal fatigues and breaks. You can also soak the card in hot water for a few minutes to soften the adhesive between layers, which may make it easier to peel apart.

Do I need to destroy the card if I'm just switching to a different card?

Yes. Even if you're no longer using the card, it still contains your card number and expiration date. Destroy it before discarding it to prevent someone from finding it in the trash and attempting to use it.

Can I recycle a metal credit card?

Most curbside recycling programs won't accept credit cards because they're made of mixed materials. Contact your card issuer to ask whether they have a recycling program. Some issuers will provide a prepaid envelope to mail back old cards for proper recycling.

What if I destroy the card but still owe a balance?

Destroying the card does not affect your account balance or payment obligations. You can still pay the balance through your online account, by phone, or by mail. The issuer will continue to send you bills and statements even after the physical card is destroyed.