Why PIF before closing a credit a card?

[mesoc]

I see this statement made everyday since i joined up on these forums, you should pay off your credit card before closing it.  I closed my first premier credit card 2 months ago with a balance of $140.  I got it down to $95, and sent off a check for the remaining balance just a few days ago. 

What do I need to watch out for?

[Anonymous]

Interest and monthly maintenance fees for closed accounts would be the first two things to come to my mind.

Edited because for the life of me I can never spell maintenance right...

Message Edited by modernsurrender on 04-05-2008 04:28 PM

[Anonymous]

If you still have a balance it will be factored in to your utilization but I don't think the credit line will be making your util go up