How to Close a Bank Account

Closing out a bank account involves more than finding your routing number and notifying your bank. Here’s an efficient 4-step plan you can use to successfully close out your bank account once and for all.

Steps to Easily Closing Your Bank Account

The four steps required to close your bank account are:

1. Find a new bank account
2. Update your automatic and recurring payments
3. Switch your direct deposit
4. Transfer funds from your old checking account

Step 1: Find a New Bank Account

Before you close out a bank account, open a new checking account. This step will help you avoid missed payments, provide immediate access to your money and allow you to write checks through the transition. Expand your new bank account search to other banks — not just your current institution.

Online financial businesses have increased competition in today’s banking services market. For instance, Credit Karma savings accounts offer a federally insured, high-yield savings rate. Over 800 banks have optimized this rate so you can earn at 18 times the national level.

After you have chosen your new bank, find out whether it provides a switch kit. The kit can include checklists and cover topics like closing your checking account. You may also be able to find account forms to notify billing agents and depositors.

Step 2: Update Your Automatic and Recurring Payments

Update your automatic and recurring payments to avoid damaging your credit with late payments. Are you having trouble finding your automatic and recurring payment arrangements? You can solve this problem by reviewing your bank statements for the past 12 months.

Update the payment information with each billing company, such as your electric company, water and trash disposal and more. Most billers need your new bank account and routing numbers.

You can find your account’s routing number in your checkbook. This 9-digit number serves as an electronic address. U.S. financial institutions use routing numbers to conduct business. Some banks use several routing numbers for their accounts — you may have separate routing numbers for your checking and savings accounts.

It’s easy to find your routing number:

• Open up your checkbook to a check or a deposit slip
• In the bottom left corner, you’ll see a 9-digit set of numbers between 2 identical symbols

Step 3: Switch Your Direct Deposit

Overlooking direct deposit details can cause annoying cash flow problems. If you get paid this way, make sure to alert your employer that your bank information has changed. Provide your employer with your new bank’s routing number and account number before your next paycheck. This step applies to investments or other direct deposit income you may receive. Banks can be slow to process these changes, so track both accounts.

Once your bank account closes, your bank will reject erroneous direct deposits. It could take several days (or longer) for the bank to return the money to your employer. You might not get paid on time, so don’t leave yourself dangling if you need a paycheck in the meantime.

Step 4: How to Transfer Funds From Your Old Account

At this stage, you can start transferring funds to your new account. Many banks have a required minimum account balance. Leave enough money to cover it and any pending payments. Some banks have transfer limits so you may need to transfer your funds in stages. Be aware that $0 balance accounts don’t always close automatically.

Step 5: Closing Your Bank Account

Finally, you can close your bank account. Visit an account representative at your home branch, call a customer service line or close your account online. A customer service representative of an online bank will send you paperwork to sign and mail back to the bank. Request a written confirmation of the account closure and the bank will pay you the remaining balance in your account.

How Long Does It Take for Your Account to Close?

On average, it takes about two weeks to close out a bank account — but it may take longer. It’s a good idea to shred all your old checks and debit cards so they don’t fall into the wrong hands.

Keep at least a year of your old bank statements for tax purposes. Go to the bank’s website and download copies if you don’t receive paper statements in your mailbox.

Close Your Account Today

Follow the right steps to close your bank account and move on today. You'll avoid unnecessary bank fees and be ready for a fresh start.

Use this guide to get started and don't be afraid to get on the phone and speak to a representative. A voice at the end of the line can help you feel sure you've closed your account once and for all.

Frequently Asked Questions