How to Close a Bank of America Account

How to close your Bank of America account

You can close a Bank of America account by phone, in person at a branch, or through online banking. The fastest method is calling Bank of America's customer service at 1-800-432-1000, where a representative can process the closure when ready. If you prefer to close in person, visit any Bank of America branch with a valid ID. Online closure is available for some account types through the Bank of America website or mobile app, though not all accounts can be closed this way.

Before you close, withdraw or transfer any remaining balance, pay off any outstanding checks or automatic payments, and confirm there are no holds on the account. Bank of America does not charge a fee to close an account. The process typically completes within one business day, though it may take longer if you have pending transactions.

Key Takeaways

• Call 1-800-432-1000 to close your account by phone, which is the fastest method and requires only your account number and ID verification.
• Visit a Bank of America branch in person with a valid ID if you prefer to close your account face-to-face.
• Withdraw your remaining balance before closing, and cancel any automatic payments or recurring transfers linked to the account.
• Bank of America does not charge a fee to close an account, and the closure typically takes one business day.
• Some account types can be closed through online banking, but you may need to call or visit a branch if your account type is not supported online.

What to do before you close your account

Empty your account completely by withdrawing cash or transferring the balance to another bank account. If you have checks linked to this account, stop using them and wait for any outstanding checks to clear before closing. This usually takes 5 to 10 business days after you stop writing checks.

Cancel any automatic bill payments, direct deposits, or recurring transfers that use this account. Log into your Bank of America account online or call 1-800-432-1000 to review what is connected to it. If you miss a payment because the account is closed, you may face late fees or credit damage.

Check whether you have a credit card or line of credit tied to this account. Closing a checking or savings account does not close a credit card, but closing a credit card account can affect your credit score. If you want to close a credit card instead, you will need to contact the credit card department separately.

Closing your account by phone

Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to close your account. Have your account number and a valid ID ready. The representative will verify your identity by asking for information like your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up.

The representative will confirm your account balance and ask how you want any remaining funds sent to you. You can request a check mailed to your address, or transfer the balance to another bank account if you provide the routing and account numbers. Once you confirm these details, the account closes when ready, though the check or transfer may take several business days to arrive.

Closing your account in person at a branch

Bring a valid photo ID to any Bank of America branch during business hours. Tell a teller or banker that you want to close your account and provide your account number. They will verify your identity and review your account balance with you.

If you have cash in the account, you can withdraw it on the spot. If you want the balance sent elsewhere, the banker will help you arrange a check or transfer. Some branches can process the closure when ready; others may need one business day to finalize it.

Closing your account online

Not all Bank of America accounts can be closed through online banking. Checking and savings accounts with a zero balance may be closable through the Bank of America website or mobile app, but accounts with a balance, credit cards, or linked services often require a phone call or branch visit.

If your account type supports online closure, log into your Bank of America account, go to the account settings or profile section, and look for a "close account" or "manage account" option. Follow the prompts to confirm your request. You will receive a confirmation email once the closure is complete.

What happens after you close your account

Bank of America will send you a final statement showing all activity up to the closure date. Keep this statement for your records. If you had automatic payments set up, those merchants will receive a notice that the account is closed, but you remain responsible for paying those bills through another method.

If someone tries to deposit a check into your closed account, the check will be returned to the sender. If you had a debit card linked to the account, it will stop working when ready. Destroy the card or contact Bank of America to report it if you lose it before closure.

Your account history remains in Bank of America's records for a set period. If you need a copy of old statements after closing, you can request them by phone at 1-800-432-1000 or through online banking if you still have access to your profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reopen a Bank of America account after I close it?

Yes, you can reopen a closed account within a certain timeframe, though Bank of America's specific window varies. Contact Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to ask whether your account can be reopened and what steps are required. If too much time has passed, you may need to open a new account instead.

What if I have a negative balance when I close my account?

If your account is overdrawn, you must pay the negative balance before closing. Bank of America will not close an account with an outstanding debt. Pay the amount owed through another account or in person at a branch, then proceed with closure.

Do I need to close my debit card separately?

No, your debit card will stop working automatically when the account closes. You do not need to take separate action. If you want to destroy the card before closure, you can do so, but it is not required.

How long does it take to receive my remaining balance after closing?

If you request a check, it typically arrives within 5 to 10 business days. If you arrange a transfer to another bank account, the funds usually arrive within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the receiving bank. Ask the representative for a specific timeline when you close.

Will closing my account affect my credit score?

Closing a checking or savings account does not directly affect your credit score because these accounts do not appear on your credit report. However, if you close a credit card account, it may lower your score by reducing your available credit. Closing a checking account has no credit impact.