Call Bank of America or visit a branch to close your account

The fastest way to close a Bank of America account is to call 1-800-432-1000 during business hours and tell the representative you want to close the account. They will verify your identity, confirm you have no pending transactions, and process the closure over the phone. The account typically closes within one to three business days.

If you prefer to close the account in person, visit any Bank of America branch with a photo ID and your account number. A banker will walk you through the process and can answer questions about what happens to your funds or automatic payments tied to that account. Closing in person takes about 15 minutes.

Do not simply stop using the account and assume it closes on its own. Inactive accounts can trigger monthly maintenance fees, and the account will remain open in the system. You must actively request closure.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person to close your account; do not rely on inactivity to close it automatically.
  • Before closing, withdraw or transfer any remaining balance, cancel automatic bill payments, and remove the account from online services like PayPal or your employer's direct deposit.
  • Bank of America will send you a confirmation letter within 7 to 10 business days; keep this for your records.
  • If you have a negative balance or outstanding checks, the bank may delay closure until those are resolved.

Prepare your account before you call or visit

Before you contact Bank of America, take three steps to avoid problems after closure. First, withdraw or transfer any money remaining in the account. The bank will not close an account with a balance; they will either send you a check or transfer the funds to another account you specify.

Second, cancel any automatic bill payments or recurring transfers linked to that account. Log into your online banking, check which companies have permission to pull money from this account, and update those payments to a different account or payment method. This includes payroll direct deposit if the account is still receiving paychecks.

Third, remove the account from any third-party services. If you use PayPal, Venmo, your brokerage, or other financial apps, update or delete the Bank of America account from those platforms. This prevents failed transactions after the account closes.

What happens to outstanding checks and pending transactions

If you have written checks that have not yet cleared, the bank will not close the account until those checks are processed. Tell the representative you are closing the account and ask how long they recommend waiting. Most checks clear within 5 to 7 business days, but some may take longer.

Pending transactions—charges that have been authorized but not yet deducted—will also delay closure. These typically post within 1 to 3 business days. If you are unsure whether a transaction is still pending, ask the representative to review your recent activity before you request closure.

If you close the account while checks are still outstanding, the bank may reopen it temporarily to process them, or they may return the checks unpaid. Either outcome can damage your relationship with the payee and create confusion. Wait until you are certain all checks have cleared.

Confirm closure in writing and keep your records

After you close the account by phone or in person, Bank of America will send you a written confirmation within 7 to 10 business days. This letter will state the closure date and confirm that the account is no longer active. Save this letter in case you need proof of closure later—for example, if a company tries to charge the closed account or if you need to show that you no longer hold the account.

If you do not receive a confirmation letter within two weeks, call the bank again and ask for a written closure confirmation. Request that they email or mail it to you, and note the date and time of your call and the name of the representative you spoke with.

What to do if the account has a negative balance

If your account is overdrawn—meaning you owe the bank money—Bank of America will not close it until you pay the negative balance. The bank will tell you the exact amount owed when you call. You can pay this over the phone using another account, a debit card, or a wire transfer.

Overdraft fees can accumulate daily if the account remains negative. Pay the balance as soon as possible to stop additional charges. Once you pay, the representative can process the closure immediately.

Reopen a closed account if you change your mind

If you close your account and then realize you need it back, you can reopen it within a limited window. Bank of America typically allows you to reopen a closed account within 30 days by visiting a branch or calling the bank. After 30 days, reopening becomes more difficult and may require a new application.

If you need to reopen the account, bring your ID and account number to a branch, or call 1-800-432-1000 and explain that you closed the account recently and want to restore it. The bank will review your history and decide whether to reopen it. There is no fee to reopen, but the decision is at the bank's discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I close my account online?

Bank of America does not offer account closure through its website or mobile app. You must call 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person. This policy protects your account from unauthorized closure.

What if I have a credit card with Bank of America—does closing my checking account affect it?

No. Closing a checking or savings account does not close a credit card account. You must close the credit card separately if you want to. Call the credit card customer service number on the back of your card to close it.

Will closing my account hurt my credit score?

Closing a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on credit history—loans, credit cards, and payment records—not on bank accounts. Closing a credit card account may have a small impact, but closing a deposit account will not.

How long does it take for the account to fully close?

The account typically closes within one to three business days after you request closure, assuming there are no pending transactions or outstanding checks. You will receive written confirmation within 7 to 10 business days. If the account has a negative balance or uncleared checks, closure may take longer.

What if I have direct deposit set up—will my paycheck bounce?

If you close the account before updating your direct deposit with your employer, your next paycheck will be rejected and returned to your employer. Update your direct deposit information with your employer at least one week before you close the account. You can do this through your employer's payroll system or by contacting HR directly.