How to Close Your Wells Fargo Account
You can close a Wells Fargo checking or savings account by calling Wells Fargo customer service, visiting a branch in person, or using the Wells Fargo mobile app or website. The fastest method is usually a phone call — you'll reach someone who can process the closure when ready and answer questions about what happens to your remaining balance or automatic payments. Before you close, make sure any pending transactions have cleared, redirect automatic deposits or bill payments to another account, and withdraw or transfer out any remaining funds.
Wells Fargo does not charge a fee to close an account. However, if your account has a negative balance (you owe money), you'll need to pay that amount before the account can be closed. If you have a certificate of deposit (CD) or other product linked to the account, you may need to handle that separately.
Key Takeaways
- Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to close an account over the phone, or visit a branch with your ID and account information.
- Stop all automatic payments and deposits at least a few days before closing so nothing bounces or gets rejected after the account shuts down.
- Transfer or withdraw your remaining balance before closing — Wells Fargo will not hold funds after the account is closed.
- If you have a negative balance or outstanding fees, you must pay those before the account closure is complete.
- Request written confirmation of the closure and keep it for your records in case questions arise later.
Close Your Account by Phone
Call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 and tell the representative you want to close your account. Have your account number and a form of ID ready. The representative will verify your identity, confirm your account has no pending transactions, and process the closure. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Ask the representative to email or mail you written confirmation that the account is closed.
If you have automatic payments or deposits set up, the representative may ask you to confirm you've already rerouted them. If you haven't, do that before you call — it's easier to change those settings while the account is still active. Once the account is closed, you won't be able to update those instructions.
Close Your Account at a Wells Fargo Branch
Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with your ID and ask to close your account. Bring your debit card if you have one. A banker will verify your identity, review your account balance, and process the closure. This method works well if you want to withdraw cash at the same time or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face.
Bring a list of any automatic payments or deposits you've set up so you can confirm with the banker that you've moved them elsewhere. If you haven't yet, ask the banker for help updating those before the account closes. The banker will give you a receipt or confirmation number — keep this for your records.
Close Your Account Online or Through the App
Log into your Wells Fargo account on the website or mobile app and look for account settings or account management options. Some account types allow you to request closure directly through the app or website. Select the account you want to close, find the close account option, and follow the prompts. You'll be asked to confirm your choice and may receive a confirmation number when ready.
Not all account types can be closed online — if you don't see a close account option, you'll need to call or visit a branch. If you do close online, watch your email for a confirmation message from Wells Fargo within a few business days. If you don't receive one within a week, call customer service to confirm the closure went through.
What to Do Before You Close
Stop or redirect any automatic bill payments at least three to five business days before closing. Log into your biller accounts (utilities, insurance, loan servicers, subscriptions) and update the payment method to your new account. If you miss this step, payments may be rejected and you could face late fees or service interruptions.
Redirect any automatic deposits, such as paychecks or government benefits, to your new account. Contact your employer's payroll department or the benefits administrator and provide your new account number and routing number. This usually takes one to two pay cycles to take effect, so plan ahead if you're closing soon.
Transfer or withdraw your remaining balance. You can move money to another bank account online, write yourself a check, or withdraw cash at a Wells Fargo ATM or branch. Do not leave money in the account — Wells Fargo will not hold funds after the account is closed, and you may have trouble retrieving them later.
What Happens After You Close
Once your account is closed, you cannot use your debit card, write checks, or access the account online. If a payment or deposit tries to post after closure, it will be rejected. The account will remain on your credit report for a period of time — typically seven years for closed accounts in good standing — but this does not hurt your credit score.
If you realize you need to reopen the account or access old statements, contact Wells Fargo. You can request copies of statements for a fee, usually around $2 to $5 per statement. If you closed the account by mistake, you may be able to reopen it within a short window, but this depends on how long ago you closed it and the reason for closure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close my Wells Fargo account if I have a negative balance?
No, you must pay the negative balance first. If your account is overdrawn, you owe Wells Fargo that amount plus any overdraft fees. Pay the balance online, by phone, or at a branch, then request closure. The representative will confirm the balance is zero before processing.
How long does it take to close a Wells Fargo account?
If you close by phone or in person, the account closes when ready and you receive confirmation that day. If you close online, it may take one to three business days for the closure to process. You'll receive an email confirmation once it's complete. Either way, the account is no longer usable within hours.
Will closing my account hurt my credit score?
Closing an account in good standing does not hurt your credit score. The account will show as closed on your credit report, but this is normal and does not lower your score. If the account had late payments or was closed due to fraud, that history may already be on your report and closing won't change it.
What if I closed my account and a payment still tried to go through?
The payment will be rejected and returned to the sender. Contact the biller and provide your new account number so they can resubmit the payment. If the rejection causes a late fee, contact the biller to explain the situation — many will waive the fee if you provide proof the payment was rejected due to account closure.
Can I get my old statements after I close my account?
Yes. Contact Wells Fargo and request copies of statements from the closed account. There is usually a fee of $2 to $5 per statement. You can also read statements online for a limited time after closure — check your account before closing to save copies you may need later.