What is Churning?
Credit Card Glossary · Updated April 2026
The practice of repeatedly signing up for credit cards to earn sign-up bonuses, then closing or downgrading the cards. While technically allowed, issuers have rules to limit it — notably Chase's 5/24 rule. Churning can impact your credit score short-term due to hard inquiries and reduced average account age.
Frequently asked questions
What is Churning?⌄
The practice of repeatedly signing up for credit cards to earn sign-up bonuses, then closing or downgrading the cards.
What does Churning mean on a credit card?⌄
The practice of repeatedly signing up for credit cards to earn sign-up bonuses, then closing or downgrading the cards. While technically allowed, issuers have rules to limit it — notably Chase's 5/24 rule. Churning can impact your credit score short-term due to hard inquiries and reduced average account age.
What terms are related to Churning?⌄
Closely related concepts include Sign-Up Bonus (SUB), 5/24 Rule (Chase). Each of these helps clarify different aspects of the same topic.
Where does Churning apply?⌄
Churning is a card types concept. It typically appears in the context of specific card types and products.
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