You can close a Bank of America checking account online through your mobile app or the website, but you must first move or withdraw all your money
Bank of America does not let you close an account while it still holds a balance. Before you start the closure process, you need to transfer your funds to another bank or withdraw them in cash. Once your account shows a zero balance and has no pending transactions, you can request closure through the mobile app, the website, or by calling customer service. The account typically closes within one to three business days after your request is submitted.
The online method is faster than visiting a branch, but you will need to complete the money transfer first. If you have automatic bill payments or direct deposits set to this account, you should update those with your new bank details before closing, or they will fail.
Key Takeaways
- Your Bank of America checking account must have a zero balance before you can close it online.
- Transfer your money to another bank using an external transfer, or withdraw it as cash before requesting closure.
- Update any automatic bill payments and direct deposits to your new account before closing, or those payments will stop.
- You can request closure through the mobile app, the website, or by phone, and the account will close within one to three business days.
- If you have a linked savings account or credit card, closing your checking account does not automatically close those products.
Move your money out before you close
Bank of America will reject any closure request if your account balance is not zero. You have two main ways to empty the account: transfer the money to another bank, or withdraw it as cash.
To transfer to another bank online, log into your Bank of America account and look for "Transfer funds" or "Move money" in the menu. Select the option to transfer to an external account (a bank outside Bank of America). You will need the routing number and account number of the bank you are moving to. Bank of America will ask you to verify the external account, which usually takes one to two business days. After verification, you can transfer the full balance. Some banks limit the amount you can transfer in a single day, so check your new bank's transfer limits if you are moving a large sum.
If you prefer cash, visit a Bank of America branch or ATM and withdraw the full balance. Keep a record of the withdrawal for your records. Either way, wait for the transfer to post or the withdrawal to clear before requesting account closure.
Request closure through the mobile app
Open the Bank of America mobile app and sign in. Navigate to the account you want to close and look for a menu icon (usually three horizontal lines or dots). Tap "Account services" or "Settings," then look for an option labeled "Close account" or "Account closure." The app will confirm that your balance is zero and ask you to state a reason for closing (this is optional, but Bank of America may ask).
Review the closure summary to make sure you are closing the correct account. If you have multiple checking accounts, this step is critical. Confirm the request, and the app will show a confirmation number. Save or screenshot this number for your records. The account will close within one to three business days.
Request closure through the Bank of America website
Log into your Bank of America online account at bankofamerica.com. Click on the checking account you want to close. Look for "Account services," "Manage account," or a similar menu option. Select "Close account" or "Close this account."
The website will verify that your balance is zero and may ask why you are closing. Complete the form and review the details one more time to confirm you are closing the right account. Submit the request and save the confirmation number. You should receive an email confirmation within a few minutes, and the account will close within one to three business days.
Close the account by phone if online options do not work
If you cannot close your account through the app or website, call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number and Social Security number ready. Tell the representative you want to close your checking account and confirm that your balance is zero.
The representative will verify your identity, review your account to confirm no pending transactions remain, and process the closure. Ask for a confirmation number and note the date and time of the call. The account will close within one to three business days. If you are closing because of a problem with the account or service, mention that to the representative—they may be able to address the issue instead.
Update automatic payments and direct deposits before closing
If you have automatic bill payments set up on this checking account, those payments will fail once the account closes. Log into each biller's website or app and update the payment method to your new bank account before you close. This includes utilities, insurance, loan payments, subscriptions, and any other recurring charges.
If you receive direct deposits (paycheck, benefits, tax refunds), contact your employer or the organization sending the deposit and provide your new bank account number and routing number. Direct deposits sent to a closed account will be returned to the sender, and you may not receive the money. Update this information at least one pay period before you close the account to avoid a missed payment.
What happens to linked accounts and cards
Closing your Bank of America checking account does not automatically close a linked savings account, money market account, or credit card. Those products remain open and active. If you want to close those as well, you will need to request closure separately for each one. If you have overdraft protection linked from a savings account to your checking account, that link will be removed when the checking account closes.
If you have a debit card tied to this checking account, it will stop working once the account closes. Destroy the card or contact Bank of America to request a replacement card for any other accounts you are keeping open.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a Bank of America checking account to close?
The account typically closes within one to three business days after you submit your closure request. You will receive a confirmation email once the closure is complete. If you do not hear back within three business days, call customer service to confirm the account has closed.
What if I have a pending check or transaction when I try to close?
Bank of America will not let you close the account until all pending transactions have cleared. Wait for checks to clear and for any pending transfers or charges to post. This usually takes one to three business days. Then request closure again.
Can I reopen a Bank of America checking account after I close it?
Yes, you can open a new checking account with Bank of America at any time. However, if you closed the account due to a negative balance or fraud, Bank of America may review your history before allowing you to open a new account. Contact a branch or call customer service to ask about reopening.
Do I need to close my account in person at a branch?
No. You can close your account entirely online through the app or website, or by phone. Visiting a branch is not necessary unless you prefer to do it in person or if you are having trouble with the online process.
What if my account has a negative balance?
You cannot close an account with a negative balance. You must pay the negative amount first by transferring money into the account or depositing cash. Once the balance reaches zero, you can request closure.