old closed accounts

[Ombud]

Several posters think that old accounts should be left open rather than closed when paid off. At one point I had over 30 charge cards and 8 banks. It was easier to open a new one each month rather than reconcile an old one (after my son died). So I closed all but 1 AMEX and 2 banks (only USAA & Schwab still open .... closed Fidelity yesterday). I heard tonight that all accounts closed more than 7 years ago - which would be almost all of them -can be removed from the credit reporting agencies records if requested.

Should I ask?

[justme]

Why do you want to remove them? Assuming you weren't late or settled any of them, if they're still reported it can only help your score.

[Peace77]

Have you checked your credit reports?

If they are already off, there is no point to waste your time requesting removal. 

[Ombud]

I check 1 every 4 months and they were there last time. Just not sure it's worth the hassle. Most were open for only a few months so I was a revolving door. I have a high FICO score

[Peace77]

It's good to have old sources of credit in your history.  

But, if you really want to close them make sure that it states closed by consumer request.