You can close a BMO account by phone, in person, or online, depending on the account type and whether you have an outstanding balance

The fastest way to close most BMO accounts is to call their customer service line at 1-800-363-1700. Have your account number ready. A representative will confirm your identity, check for pending transactions or outstanding balances, and walk you through the closure. If you have a mortgage, investment account, or credit card with BMO, you may need to handle those separately or visit a branch in person.

If you prefer to close the account without a phone call, you can visit any BMO branch with a valid ID and your account number. The teller will verify your identity and process the closure on the spot. This method works well if you have questions or complications — for example, if there are holds on the account or if you need to transfer funds before closing. Online closure is not available for most BMO account types, though you can initiate the process through your online banking portal for some checking and savings accounts. The system will prompt you to confirm the closure and may ask you to call to complete it.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-363-1700 with your account number ready; a representative will verify your identity and process the closure over the phone.
  • Visit a BMO branch in person with a valid ID if you prefer face-to-face closure or have complications like pending transactions or holds.
  • Make sure your account balance is zero before closing — withdraw remaining funds or request a check from the bank.
  • If you have linked accounts (mortgages, credit cards, investment accounts), close those separately or confirm they are not tied to the account you are closing.
  • After closure, keep your final statement and confirmation number for your records in case of disputes or questions later.

What to do with your remaining balance before closing

BMO will not close an account with money still in it. Before you call or visit, withdraw all remaining funds or transfer them to another account. You can do this through online banking, at an ATM, or at a branch. If the balance is small and you do not want to make a trip, you can ask the representative to issue a check for the remaining amount when you call to close.

If your account is overdrawn (you owe the bank money), you must pay that balance before closure. BMO will not close an account with a negative balance. Ask the representative how much you owe and whether you can pay it over the phone with a debit card or bank transfer.

Stopping automatic payments and direct deposits before you close

Before closing the account, log into your online banking and review all automatic payments and recurring transfers linked to that account. Common ones include utility bills, insurance premiums, loan payments, and subscription services. Cancel or redirect each one to another account at least a week before you plan to close.

If you receive direct deposit paychecks or government benefits into this account, update your employer or benefits administrator with your new account number. This takes a few days to process, so do it well in advance. If a payment tries to post to a closed account, it will bounce, and you may face late fees or service interruptions.

What happens to your debit card and checks after closure

Your debit card will stop working immediately after the account closes. Destroy it or cut it up so it cannot be used. If you have blank checks, do not use them after closure — they will be rejected. Shred or destroy any remaining checks.

If you have a pending check that has not cleared yet, contact the person or business who issued it and ask them to reissue it to your new account. If a check clears after the account is closed, BMO will return it unpaid, and the check writer may face a fee.

Closing accounts with outstanding loans or credit products

If you have a BMO credit card, line of credit, or loan tied to the account you want to close, you cannot close the account until that debt is paid off or transferred. Call 1-800-363-1700 and ask whether your credit products are linked to the checking or savings account. If they are, you have two options: pay off the debt first, or keep the account open and transfer the credit product to a different account.

Mortgages and investment accounts are separate products and do not prevent you from closing a checking or savings account, but confirm this with the representative before you proceed.

How long closure takes and what confirmation you will receive

Closure is usually immediate when you call or visit a branch. The representative will give you a confirmation number and may email or mail you a final statement showing the account is closed. Keep this confirmation number and any documentation for your records.

In rare cases, if there are pending transactions or holds on the account, closure may take a few business days. The representative will tell you if this applies to you and when the account will be fully closed.

What to do if you change your mind after closing

If you close the account and then realize you need it back, you can reopen it within a short window — usually 30 days. Call 1-800-363-1700 and ask whether the account can be reopened. BMO may charge a fee or require you to make a new deposit.

After 30 days, reopening becomes much harder and may not be possible; the account is considered permanently closed. If you think you might need the account again soon, ask the representative about the reopening window and any associated costs before you proceed with closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit a branch in person to close my account?

No. You can close most BMO accounts by phone at 1-800-363-1700. In-person closure at a branch is an option if you prefer it or if you have complications the phone representative cannot resolve.

What if I have a negative balance when I try to close?

You must pay the negative balance before closure. Ask the representative how much you owe and whether you can pay it immediately by debit card or bank transfer over the phone.

Will closing my BMO account hurt my credit score?

Closing a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on credit products like loans and credit cards, not deposit accounts. Closing a credit card or line of credit may have a small impact, but closing a checking account will not.

Can I close my account if I still have pending transactions?

Pending transactions must clear before closure. If you close the account while transactions are pending, they may bounce or be rejected. Wait for all pending items to post, then close the account.

What if I receive a check after I close my account?

If someone deposits a check into your closed account, BMO will return it unpaid. Contact the check writer and ask them to reissue it to your new account. This can take several days, so plan ahead if you are expecting a payment.