How to Close Your Bank of America Savings Account

Steps to close your Bank of America savings account

You can close a Bank of America savings account by visiting a branch in person, calling customer service, or using online banking. The fastest method is usually a branch visit, where a representative can process the closure when ready and handle any remaining balance. If you call, you'll reach Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and speak to someone who can walk you through the process over the phone. Online closure is available through your account settings, though some account types may require a phone call or branch visit to complete the process.

Before you close the account, make sure any automatic transfers or bill payments linked to it have been moved to another account or cancelled. Bank of America will not process the closure if the account still has pending transactions. If your account has a remaining balance, the bank will either transfer it to another account you own or issue a check, depending on the amount and your preference.

Key Takeaways

• You can close your savings account at a Bank of America branch, by phone at 1-800-432-1000, or through your online banking portal.
• Cancel or redirect any automatic transfers, bill payments, or direct deposits before closing to avoid delays.
• Bank of America will transfer your remaining balance to another account or send a check if you request it.
• Some account types, such as those with pending disputes or holds, may require additional steps before closure is possible.
• Closing a savings account does not affect your other Bank of America accounts unless you specifically close those as well.

What to prepare before you close

Gather your account number and a form of identification before you start the closure process. If you're closing the account in person, bring a government-issued ID such as a driver's license or passport. Have a list of any recurring transactions tied to the account—subscriptions, transfers to other accounts, or automatic bill payments—so you can confirm they've been cancelled or moved elsewhere.

If your account has a balance, decide in advance whether you want the money transferred to another Bank of America account you own or sent as a check to your mailing address. This choice will speed up the process when you contact the bank. If the account is overdrawn or has a negative balance, you'll need to bring funds to cover it before the account can be closed.

Closing in person at a branch

Walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID and account number. Tell the representative you want to close your savings account. They will review your account for any pending transactions, confirm your identity, and ask how you'd like your remaining balance handled. The entire process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

The representative will print a receipt showing the account closure and the disposition of your funds. Keep this receipt for your records. If you have a remaining balance, ask when the transfer or check will be processed—transfers to another Bank of America account typically happen within one business day, while checks are mailed and may take five to seven business days to arrive.

Closing by phone

Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you want to close your savings account. Have your account number and a form of identification ready. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions, then check for any pending transactions or holds on the account.

Let them know how you want your balance handled—transfer to another account or check by mail. The representative will confirm the closure and provide you with a reference number. Write down this number and the date of the call. If you requested a check, ask for the mailing address on file and confirm it's correct before you hang up.

Closing through online banking

Log into your Bank of America online account and navigate to your savings account settings. Look for an option labeled "Close Account" or "Account Services." Some accounts allow you to complete the entire closure online, while others will prompt you to call or visit a branch to finish the process. If you can proceed online, the system will ask you to confirm your identity and choose how to handle your remaining balance.

After you submit the closure request, Bank of America will send you a confirmation email with a reference number and details about when your account will be closed. Check your email within 24 hours to make sure the request went through. If you don't receive a confirmation, call customer service to verify the status.

What happens after you close the account

Your savings account will be marked as closed in Bank of America's system, usually within one to three business days. You won't be able to make deposits or withdrawals after the closure is processed. Any remaining balance will be transferred or mailed according to your instructions. If you requested a check, it will be sent to the address on file.

Bank of America will continue to send you statements for closed accounts for a period of time. Keep these statements for your records, especially if you need proof of the closure for tax purposes or other documentation. If you have questions about the closed account later, you can still contact Bank of America with your reference number.

Reasons you might not be able to close when ready

Bank of America may delay or prevent closure if your account has a negative balance, pending disputes, or active holds placed by the bank or a creditor. If there's a dispute on the account—such as a claim of fraud or an error you've reported—the bank must resolve it before closing. Similarly, if a creditor has placed a legal hold on the account, the hold must be lifted first.

If your account is overdrawn, you'll need to deposit funds to bring it to zero or positive before closure can proceed. Ask the representative or customer service agent what the exact balance is and whether any fees are still being assessed. Some accounts may also have pending transactions that haven't cleared yet; the bank will wait for these to post before processing the closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will closing my savings account affect my checking account or credit card?

No. Closing one account does not affect any other accounts you have with Bank of America. Your checking account, credit card, and any other products will remain open and active unless you specifically close them as well.

What if I have a negative balance when I try to close?

You must bring the account to zero or positive before Bank of America will process the closure. Contact the bank to find out the exact amount owed, including any fees. Once you deposit enough to cover the balance, you can proceed with closing the account.

How long does it take to receive a check after closing?

Bank of America typically mails checks within five to seven business days after the account is closed. The check will be sent to the address on file. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact the bank with your reference number and they can investigate.

Can I reopen a closed savings account?

You can open a new savings account with Bank of America at any time, but you cannot reopen a closed account. If you change your mind shortly after closing, contact the bank when ready—some closures can be reversed within a short window if the account hasn't fully processed.

Do I need to close my account in person, or can I do it remotely?

You can close your account by phone or online for most account types. A branch visit is not required unless your account has complications, such as a hold or dispute. Call 1-800-432-1000 or log into your online account to see which method is available for your specific account.