Call Citizens Bank or visit a branch to close your account
The fastest way to close a Citizens Bank savings account is to call their customer service line or walk into a branch with your account number and ID. Citizens Bank does not offer account closure through their online banking portal, so you must initiate the request by phone or in person. When you call, have your account number ready and be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.
If you visit a branch, bring a government-issued ID and your debit card or account information. A banker will process the closure on the spot, which typically takes a few minutes. If you call, the representative will guide you through the process and confirm the closure details before ending the call.
Key Takeaways
- Citizens Bank requires you to close savings accounts by phone or in-person visit; online closure is not available.
- You must withdraw or transfer any remaining balance before or during the closure process, or Citizens Bank will issue a check to your mailing address.
- Closing an account does not affect other accounts you hold at Citizens Bank, such as checking accounts or credit cards.
- Request written confirmation of the closure and keep it for your records in case disputes arise later.
What happens to money still in the account
Before you close the account, decide what to do with any remaining balance. You can withdraw the money in cash at a branch, transfer it to another Citizens Bank account, or transfer it to an external bank account using a wire transfer or ACH transfer.
If you have a small balance and do not withdraw or transfer it before closure, Citizens Bank will mail a check to the address on file. This process can take one to two weeks after the account closes. If you move before receiving the check, you may need to contact Citizens Bank to update your address or request a replacement check.
Timing and what to expect after closure
Account closure is usually immediate once you complete the request, but it can take one to three business days for the closure to fully process in Citizens Bank's system. During this window, any pending transactions or automatic payments linked to the account may still post. Check your account for a few days after closure to confirm no unexpected charges appear.
Once the account is closed, you will no longer be able to access it online or use any debit card tied to it. If you have automatic bill payments or direct deposits set up for this account, those will fail after closure. Update your payroll and billers at least one week before you close the account to avoid missed payments or bounced deposits.
Stopping automatic payments and direct deposits
Before closing your savings account, log into your Citizens Bank online banking or call customer service to review all automatic transactions linked to the account. Common automatic payments include gym memberships, subscription services, insurance premiums, and utility bills. Cancel or redirect each one to a different account or payment method.
If you receive direct deposits to this savings account—such as paychecks or government benefits—contact your employer or the benefit administrator to change the deposit account. Provide them with your new account number if you are moving the deposit to another bank. Allow at least one pay cycle for the change to take effect before the old account closes.
Reasons to keep the account open instead
Some people close savings accounts unnecessarily when a simple fix would solve the problem. If you are closing because of low interest rates, you can transfer the balance to a high-yield savings account at Citizens Bank or another bank without closing. If you are closing because of monthly fees, you may be able to waive them by maintaining a minimum balance or switching to a no-fee account type.
If you are closing because you do not use the account, consider keeping it open with a zero balance. A closed account can sometimes affect your credit history or banking record, and reopening an account later may require a new application. An inactive account sitting at zero dollars costs you nothing and preserves your banking history with Citizens Bank.
What to do if you cannot visit a branch or make a phone call
Citizens Bank does not offer account closure by mail, email, or through a third party. If you are unable to call or visit in person, you can authorize someone else to close the account on your behalf by providing them with a signed power of attorney or written authorization. The authorized person must bring the letter, their ID, and your ID to a Citizens Bank branch.
If you are out of the country or have mobility limitations, call Citizens Bank's customer service line and explain your situation. Some representatives may be able to arrange alternative closure methods or connect you with a specialist who handles unusual requests. Have your account number and identifying information ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will closing my savings account hurt my credit score?
Closing a savings account does not directly affect your credit score because savings accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. However, if the account has an overdraft or unpaid fee, that may be reported. Pay any outstanding balance before closure to avoid this issue.
Can I reopen a Citizens Bank savings account after closing it?
Yes, you can reopen a savings account at Citizens Bank after closure. You will need to apply as if opening a new account, and Citizens Bank will review your banking history. If you closed the account in good standing, reopening is usually straightforward.
What if I close my account but a check I wrote hasn't cleared yet?
Checks can clear for weeks after you close an account. If a check posts after closure and there is no balance, it will bounce and you may face overdraft fees or returned-check fees. Withdraw enough money to cover outstanding checks before closing, or keep the account open until all checks have cleared.
Do I need to close my debit card when I close my savings account?
If your debit card is linked only to the savings account you are closing, it will stop working once the account closes. If the card is linked to a checking account or another account you are keeping open, it will continue to work. Ask the banker or representative which accounts your card is tied to.
How long does it take to receive a check for my remaining balance?
If Citizens Bank mails a check for your remaining balance, it typically arrives within one to two weeks of closure. The check is mailed to the address on file. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact Citizens Bank with your account closure confirmation number.