You can transfer your account to a different branch, but the process depends on your bank and what you mean by "transfer"
Most banks let you change your home branch online through your account settings, which updates where you conduct in-person business without closing or reopening anything. Some banks also let you move funds between branches instantly using their app or website. However, if you want to move your account to a completely different bank, that requires closing one account and opening another — a separate process that takes a few days.
The fastest and simplest route is usually your bank's mobile app or online banking portal. Log in, look for account settings or branch preferences, and change your home branch to the new location. This change is immediate and costs nothing. If your bank does not offer this online, you can call customer service or visit either branch in person.
Key Takeaways
- Changing your home branch online takes minutes and is free; most banks let you do this through their app or website account settings.
- Moving money between your own accounts at different branches of the same bank is instant and free if done online.
- Transferring your account to a different bank requires closing one account and opening another, which takes three to five business days.
- Your routing number, account number, and direct deposit setup may change if you switch banks, so update employers and billers afterward.
- If your bank does not offer online branch changes, call customer service or visit a branch in person to request the change.
Changing your home branch within the same bank
Your home branch is the location you designate for in-person services like deposits, withdrawals, and account questions. Changing it does not affect your account number, routing number, or any of your money. It is purely a preference setting.
Log into your bank's website or app and look for "Account Settings," "Profile," "Preferences," or "Branch Preferences." The exact label varies by bank. Select your new branch from the list and save. The change takes effect immediately. If you cannot find this option online, call your bank's customer service line — they can change it over the phone in under five minutes.
Some banks, including Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, make this change available in their mobile apps. Others require you to use their website. A few smaller regional banks may not offer it online at all, in which case a phone call or in-person visit is your only option.
Moving money between branches of the same bank
If you have accounts at two different branches of the same bank and want to move money between them, use your online banking portal or app. This is the same as transferring money between any two accounts you own — it is free and instant.
Log in, select "Transfer Funds" or "Move Money," choose the account you are sending from and the account you are sending to, enter the amount, and confirm. The money arrives in seconds or minutes. You do not need to visit either branch or call anyone.
If you want to close one account and keep only the other, you can transfer the full balance this way first, then request account closure online or by phone. Some banks let you close accounts through their app; others require a phone call or branch visit.
Moving your account to a different bank entirely
Switching to a different bank is more involved because you are closing one account and opening a new one. The process itself is free, but it takes time and requires you to update your setup afterward.
Open the new account at your new bank first — this can usually be done online and takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will receive a new account number and routing number. Then transfer your balance from your old account to your new one using an external transfer (sometimes called an ACH transfer). This takes three to five business days.
Once the money has arrived at your new bank, close your old account. You can do this online, by phone, or in person, depending on your bank. After closing, contact your employer, any services you pay automatically (utilities, subscriptions, insurance), and anyone who sends you regular deposits to update your banking information with your new account number and routing number.
What changes when you switch banks
Your account number and routing number will be different at a new bank. If you have direct deposit set up, you will need to give your employer your new account and routing numbers so they can update their system. This usually takes one to two pay cycles to take effect.
Any automatic bill payments you have set up will stop working if you do not update them. Log into each biller's website (your utility company, insurance provider, subscription services, loan servicer) and change your payment method to your new account number and routing number. Do this before your old account closes to avoid missed payments.
If you have checks linked to your old account, they will no longer work after you close it. Order new checks from your new bank if you still use them. Some banks charge for checks; others include them free.
If your bank does not offer online branch changes
Not all banks have built this feature into their online platforms. If you log in and cannot find a branch preference setting, call customer service. Have your account number ready and tell them which branch you want to switch to. They can make the change on the call and confirm it is complete before you hang up.
Alternatively, visit either your current branch or the new branch in person with your ID and ask to change your home branch. Bring your account number if you have it. This takes a few minutes and requires no paperwork.
Timing and what to expect
Changing your home branch online: immediate.
Transferring money between branches of the same bank online: seconds to minutes.
Closing one account and opening another at a different bank: three to five business days for the transfer, plus time to update your direct deposit and bill payments afterward.
If you are switching banks, plan for at least a week before you need the new account to be fully operational. Start the process early enough that direct deposit and automatic payments have time to update before your old account closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my branch online affect my debit card or checks?
No. Your debit card, checks, account number, and routing number all stay the same. Changing your home branch only changes where you go for in-person services. Your card works everywhere it did before.
What if I have pending transactions when I close my old account?
Wait until all pending transactions have cleared before closing. This usually takes three to five business days after the transaction date. If you close too early, a pending charge could bounce and trigger an overdraft fee at your old bank.
Can I transfer my account to a different bank if I have a negative balance?
No. You must bring your account to zero or positive before closing it. If you owe money, pay the balance first, then close. Your bank will not close an account with a negative balance.
Do I need to visit a branch in person to change branches?
Not usually. Most major banks let you change your home branch online or by phone. Only a few smaller banks require an in-person visit. Check your bank's website or app first, or call customer service to ask.
If I change branches, will my old checks still work?
Yes, as long as you are staying with the same bank. Your account number and routing number do not change when you switch branches within the same bank, so old checks will still work. They will only stop working if you close the account entirely.