Call Nationwide's customer service line or visit a branch in person to close your account
Nationwide does not offer online account closure for savings accounts. You must either call 1-877-669-6877 (the main customer service number) or walk into a Nationwide branch during business hours. 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 photo ID and your account number. A representative will walk you through the closure process on the spot. This is often the fastest route if you have a branch nearby, since you can confirm the account is closed before you leave.
Nationwide will ask what you want to do with any remaining balance. Most commonly, they will issue a check mailed to your address on file, transfer the funds to another bank account you provide, or deposit the money into another Nationwide account if you have one. The check typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days after closure.
Key Takeaways
- You cannot close a Nationwide savings account online—you must call 1-877-669-6877 or visit a branch in person.
- Have your account number and a photo ID ready before you contact Nationwide.
- Tell Nationwide how you want your remaining balance paid: by check, bank transfer, or deposit to another account.
- A check for your balance typically arrives 5 to 10 business days after the account closes.
- If you have automatic payments or direct deposits linked to the account, cancel or redirect them before you close.
What to do before you call or visit
Before you contact Nationwide, make sure no money is still flowing into or out of the account. Check whether you have set up any automatic bill payments, recurring transfers, or direct deposits tied to this savings account. If you do, you will need to update those arrangements first—either cancel them or redirect them to a different account.
If you receive a paycheck or regular deposit into this account, log into your employer's payroll system or contact your HR department to change your direct deposit to a different bank account. This usually takes one or two pay cycles to take effect, so do it at least a week before you plan to close the account.
Check your account balance and make sure you know how much money is in there. Nationwide will not close the account if there is a negative balance (you owe them money). If your account is overdrawn, you will need to deposit funds to bring it to zero or positive before closure.
How to close by phone
Call 1-877-669-6877 during Nationwide's customer service hours. Have your account number, Social Security number, and a photo ID handy. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your account history.
Tell the representative you want to close your savings account. They will confirm your current balance and ask how you want the money sent to you. If you choose a check, confirm the mailing address on file. If you choose a bank transfer, you will need to provide the routing number and account number of the receiving bank.
Ask the representative to confirm the closure date and the expected arrival date for your funds. Request a confirmation number or reference number for your records. Write it down before you hang up.
How to close in person at a branch
Find your nearest Nationwide branch using their branch locator on their website or by calling the main number. Bring your photo ID and your account number. Walk-in closures are usually processed the same day.
Tell the branch representative you want to close your savings account. They will verify your identity, confirm your balance, and ask how you want your remaining funds. You can choose a check, a transfer to another bank, or a deposit to a different Nationwide account.
If you choose a check, the representative will tell you when to expect it in the mail. If you choose a transfer, provide the receiving bank's routing number and your account number at that bank. The branch will give you a receipt or confirmation number showing the account is closed.
What happens after you close the account
Once Nationwide processes the closure, the account will no longer accept deposits or withdrawals. Any checks or transfers you try to make from that account will be rejected. If you have a debit card linked to this account, it will stop working.
Your remaining balance will be sent according to the method you chose. A check typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days. A bank transfer may take 1 to 3 business days, depending on the receiving bank. A deposit to another Nationwide account is usually instant or within one business day.
Keep your confirmation number and any documentation Nationwide gave you. If your funds do not arrive when expected, you can contact Nationwide with this information to track down what happened.
What to do if you have linked accounts or credit products
If you have a Nationwide checking account, money market account, or other savings account, closing one account does not affect the others. Each account closes separately.
If you have a Nationwide credit card or loan, closing a savings account will not close those products. They remain open and active. However, if the savings account was set up as overdraft protection for a checking account, closing it may remove that protection—contact Nationwide to confirm.
If you have a Nationwide certificate of deposit (CD) that is maturing soon, you can close it at the same time or keep it open. Let the representative know if you want to close a CD along with your savings account, since CDs sometimes have different closure procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close my Nationwide savings account online?
No. Nationwide requires you to close savings accounts by phone or in person at a branch. Call 1-877-669-6877 or visit a local branch with your photo ID and account number.
How long does it take to close a Nationwide savings account?
The closure itself is immediate once you contact Nationwide. However, receiving your remaining balance takes longer: 5 to 10 business days for a check, 1 to 3 business days for a bank transfer, or 1 business day for a deposit to another Nationwide account.
What if I have a negative balance when I try to close?
Nationwide will not close the account if you owe money. You must deposit funds to bring the balance to zero or positive first. Once the balance is positive, you can proceed with closure.
Do I need to cancel my debit card before closing the account?
You do not need to cancel it separately—it will stop working automatically once the account closes. However, if you want to cancel it before closure, you can ask the representative to do so during the closure process.
What if I close my account and then receive a deposit meant for it?
If a direct deposit or transfer arrives after the account is closed, Nationwide will typically reject it and send it back to the sender. Contact your employer or the sender to update your account information before you close to avoid this.