Call your bank or visit a branch to start the closure
The fastest way to close a bank account is to call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch in person. Tell them you want to close the account. They will ask which account (if you have more than one) and whether you want to close it immediately or on a specific date. Most banks close accounts the same day you request it, though some let you schedule a closure for later.
If you call, the bank will verify your identity by asking for your account number, Social Security number, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account. If you go to a branch, bring a photo ID. Either way, the bank will confirm your current balance and explain what happens to any money still in the account.
Some banks also let you start the closure through their mobile app or website, though you may still need to call to complete it. Check your bank's website or app for a "close account" or "account settings" option.
Key Takeaways
- You must withdraw or transfer all money from the account before or during the closure process — the bank will not close an account with a balance.
- If you have automatic bill payments or direct deposits set up, you need to redirect them to another account or cancel them before closing.
- The bank will send you a final statement showing the account is closed; keep this for your records in case a charge appears later.
- If the account is overdrawn (you owe the bank money), you must pay the negative balance before the account can close.
- Closing a bank account does not hurt your credit score, but leaving an account open with a zero balance costs nothing if you want to keep it.
Withdraw or transfer your remaining balance
Before the bank will close your account, you must move any money out of it. You can withdraw cash at an ATM or teller, transfer the money to another bank account you own, or ask the bank to issue a cashier's check. If you have a small balance (usually under $25), some banks will let you leave it and close the account anyway — ask when you call.
If you do not withdraw the money yourself, the bank will hold it. After a set period (usually 90 days to three years, depending on your state), unclaimed money goes to your state's unclaimed property program. You can still recover it, but you will have to contact your state treasurer's office and prove the account was yours. It is much simpler to move the money yourself.
Stop automatic payments and redirect direct deposits
Before you close the account, check whether any bills are set to pay automatically from it. This includes utilities, insurance, subscriptions, loan payments, or anything else you have set to withdraw on a schedule. Log into your bank account online or call the bank to see a list of recent transactions; look for recurring charges.
For each automatic payment, log into the biller's website (your electric company, insurance provider, etc.) and change the payment method to a different bank account or credit card. Do not just close the account and hope the payment bounces — if the biller cannot collect, they may report you as late or send the debt to a collection agency.
Also check whether your paycheck, government benefits, or other regular deposits go into this account. Contact your employer's payroll department or the benefits program (Social Security, unemployment, etc.) and provide your new bank account number. This usually takes one to two pay periods to take effect, so make the change at least a week before you close the account.
Pay any negative balance or overdraft fees
If your account is overdrawn — meaning you owe the bank money — you must pay the negative balance before the account can close. This includes any overdraft fees the bank charged. You can pay by transferring money from another account, bringing cash to a branch, or mailing a check to the bank's address.
If you are unsure whether the account is overdrawn, ask the bank when you call to close it. They will tell you the exact amount owed and the deadline to pay. If you do not pay, the bank may send the debt to a collection agency, which will damage your credit and may result in a lawsuit.
Confirm the closure and keep your final statement
Once you have withdrawn all money, stopped automatic payments, and paid any fees, the bank will close the account. They will send you a final statement in the mail or make it available online, usually within one to two weeks. This statement shows the account is closed and lists all transactions up to the closure date.
Keep this final statement for at least one year. If a charge appears on your credit report or a company claims you still owe money on the account, you can use the final statement to prove the account is closed and settled. If the statement does not arrive within three weeks, call the bank and ask them to send it again or provide a written confirmation of closure.
What happens to checks you wrote before closing
If you wrote checks from this account that have not yet cleared, they will bounce after the account closes. The recipient will be charged a fee by their bank, and they may come after you for payment. Before you close the account, make sure all checks you have written have cleared — you can see this in your transaction history online.
If you wrote a check and are not sure whether it has cleared, wait at least two weeks after writing it before closing the account. If a check does bounce after closure, the recipient can still demand payment from you directly, and you may face legal action. The closed account does not erase your obligation to pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will closing my bank account hurt my credit score?
No. Closing a bank account does not appear on your credit report and does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on borrowing and repayment history, not on which bank accounts you have open or closed.
What if I have a debit card linked to the account?
The debit card will stop working once the account closes, usually within 24 hours. If you have not already received a card for your new account, request one when you open it or transfer your balance. Do not rely on the old card after closure.
Can I reopen a closed bank account?
Most banks will not reopen a closed account. If you change your mind, you will need to open a new account, which may take a few minutes online or at a branch. Some banks have a waiting period (usually 30 days) before you can open a new account with them after closing one.
What if the bank owes me money after I close?
If you are owed a refund or credit after closure, the bank will mail a check to the address on file. This can take several weeks. Make sure the bank has your current mailing address before you close the account. If you do not receive the check within 30 days, call the bank and ask them to reissue it.
Do I need to close accounts at other banks too?
No. Closing one bank account does not affect accounts you have at other banks. Each account is separate. You only need to close the specific account you no longer want.