You can close a Bank of America account by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or sending a written request by mail. There is no early closure fee on standard deposit accounts. The process is straightforward, but a few preparation steps will prevent delays and ensure your remaining funds end up where you want them.
Before You Close the Account
The most important step is getting your account balance to zero before you submit a closure request. If you have money left in the account, transfer it to another bank account a few days ahead of time, since transfers can take a couple of business days to fully process. Alternatively, you can withdraw the balance in cash at a branch or ATM.
If your account has a negative balance, you’ll need to pay it off before the bank will close it. That means covering any overdraft, pending fees, or outstanding transactions first.
Before closing, take care of these loose ends:
- Automatic payments: Move any recurring bills (utilities, subscriptions, insurance, loan payments) to a different account or payment method. A missed autopay after closure can cause late fees or service interruptions.
- Direct deposits: If your paycheck or government benefits go into this account, update your deposit information with your employer or the paying agency. This can take one to two pay cycles to take effect, so start early.
- Pending transactions: Make sure any outstanding checks, debit card holds, or transfers have fully cleared. A transaction that posts after the account is closed can create complications.
- Linked accounts: If the account is linked to a Bank of America credit card, Merrill investment account, or another checking or savings account, unlink it or set up a new funding source.
Close in Person at a Branch
Walking into a Bank of America branch is the most direct way to close your account. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. If there’s still a balance in the account, the banker can hand you a cashier’s check or cash on the spot, or transfer the funds to another Bank of America account. You’ll typically walk out the same day with the account fully closed.
Close by Phone
Call Bank of America’s customer service line at 800-432-1000. You’ll need to verify your identity, so have your account number and personal details ready. The representative can process the closure and arrange for any remaining balance to be mailed to you as a check or transferred to another Bank of America deposit account. Phone closures may take a few business days to fully process.
Close by Mail
You can also send a written request to close your account. Your letter should include your full name, account number, and a clear statement that you want the account closed. If there’s still a balance, specify whether you’d like it transferred to another Bank of America deposit account (include that account number) or mailed to you as a cashier’s check.
One important rule: if your account balance is more than $25,000, your closure letter must be notarized. A notary public verifies your identity and stamps the document, and you can find one at most UPS stores, shipping centers, or other bank branches, usually for a small fee.
Mail the letter to the address listed on your most recent account statement or on Bank of America’s website. Keep a copy for your records, and consider sending it via certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Closing a Joint Account
Joint accounts add a layer of complexity. In most cases, both account holders need to consent to closing the account. You generally cannot close a joint account on your own without the other person’s agreement. This applies whether the joint holder is a spouse, partner, family member, or anyone else listed on the account.
If you’re closing a joint account at a branch, both account holders should plan to visit together with valid IDs. If visiting together isn’t possible, call Bank of America to ask what alternatives they can offer for your specific situation.
What Happens After Closure
Once the account is officially closed, you won’t be able to use any debit cards, checks, or online banking features tied to it. Destroy any remaining checks and cut up the debit card.
Keep your final account statement when it arrives. It serves as your record that the account was closed with a zero balance, which can be useful if any billing disputes or stray transactions surface later. If you’re expecting a cashier’s check for your remaining balance, allow a week or two for it to arrive by mail.
Bank of America does not charge a fee for closing a standard checking or savings account, regardless of how long you’ve had it. You won’t owe anything for the closure itself.