Call Discover Bank to close your account
The fastest way to close a Discover Bank account is to call their customer service line at 1-800-347-2000. A representative will walk you through the closure process, confirm your account details, and answer questions about what happens to your money and any pending transactions. The call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
You can also close your account online through your Discover Bank login, though the phone route is more reliable because the representative can confirm the closure immediately and address any complications on the spot. If you have multiple accounts with Discover (checking, savings, money market), you'll need to specify which ones you want to close.
Before you call, have your account number ready and know your current balance. If you have automatic bill payments or direct deposits set up, make a note of those too—you'll need to update them before closing.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-800-347-2000 to close your account; a representative will confirm the closure and handle any pending transactions.
- Withdraw or transfer your remaining balance before closing, or ask Discover to mail you a check after the account is closed.
- Cancel any automatic bill payments and redirect direct deposits at least a week before closing to avoid missed payments or lost deposits.
- Closing your account does not affect your Discover credit card if you have one; they are separate products.
- Request written confirmation of the closure for your records.
Move your money before or after closing
You have two options for your remaining balance. The first is to transfer the money to another bank account before you call to close—this is the safest route because the funds arrive immediately and you have proof of the transfer. Use Discover's online transfer tool or set up an external transfer to another bank account you own.
The second option is to ask Discover to mail you a check after the account closes. This takes longer—typically 7 to 10 business days after closure—and you have no control over when it arrives. If you choose this route, confirm the mailing address with the representative before you hang up.
If your account has a negative balance (you owe Discover money), you'll need to pay that amount before closing. Discover will not close an account with an outstanding debt.
Stop automatic payments and redirect deposits
Any bill payments you've set up to come from your Discover account will fail once the account closes. Log into each biller's website or app—your utility company, insurance provider, loan servicer, or subscription service—and update the payment method to your new bank account at least one week before closing. This includes recurring charges like gym memberships or streaming services.
If your employer or a government agency deposits money directly into your Discover account (paycheck, tax refund, Social Security), you'll need to update your direct deposit information with them as well. This can take one to two pay cycles to take effect, so plan ahead. Contact your HR department or log into your account on the agency's website to change your banking details.
If you miss updating a payment or deposit, contact the biller or agency immediately to correct it. Discover will not hold payments or deposits that arrive after your account is closed.
What happens to pending transactions
Transactions that have been authorized but not yet posted to your account may still clear after you close. Discover will honor these transactions and deduct the amount from your balance before sending you any remaining funds. This is why it's important to wait a few days after your last transaction before calling to close—give pending charges time to post.
If you're unsure whether a transaction is still pending, log in and check your recent activity, or ask the representative during your closure call. They can see which transactions are in process.
Confirm the closure in writing
After you close your account, ask the representative to send you written confirmation. This document shows the closure date and your final balance, and it serves as proof that the account is closed if there are any disputes later. You can also request this confirmation via email or mail—specify your preference when you call.
Keep this confirmation for at least one year. If a payment or deposit arrives after closure and causes problems, you'll have proof that you closed the account on a specific date.
Your Discover credit card is not affected
Closing your Discover Bank account (checking, savings, or money market) does not close your Discover credit card. These are separate products managed by the same company but kept independent. Your credit card will remain open and active unless you specifically close it.
If you want to close your Discover credit card as well, you'll need to call a different number or handle that separately. Your bank account closure representative can provide the correct contact information if you ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reopen my Discover Bank account after closing it?
Discover does not automatically reopen closed accounts. You would need to open a new account, which means a new account number and a new application. There is no penalty for closing and reopening, but the process takes a few business days.
What if I close my account and then a check I wrote bounces?
Once your account is closed, checks will bounce and the payee will be notified. This is why you should wait until all outstanding checks have cleared before closing. If you're concerned about a check, contact the recipient and ask them to hold it until you've transferred funds to a new account.
Do I lose my debit card when I close my account?
Yes. Your Discover debit card will stop working immediately or within a few hours of closure. Destroy the card or contact Discover to request they deactivate it. Do not leave an active debit card lying around after closing the account.
Will closing my account hurt my credit score?
Closing a bank account does not affect your credit score. Bank accounts do not appear on your credit report. Only credit products like credit cards, loans, and lines of credit impact your credit history.
What if I have a pending dispute or claim on my account?
Contact Discover before closing if you have an open dispute, fraud claim, or other investigation. Closing the account may pause or complicate the resolution. The representative can tell you whether you need to wait or if closure is safe to proceed with.