Call Wells Fargo or visit a branch to close your account
The fastest way to close a Wells Fargo savings account is to call 1-800-869-3557 during business hours and ask for account closure. A representative will verify your identity, confirm you have no outstanding holds or pending transactions, and process the closure over the phone. The account typically closes within one to three business days.
If you prefer to close in person, visit any Wells Fargo branch with a photo ID and your account number. A banker can close the account immediately and answer questions about where your remaining balance will be sent. This route works well if you have questions about pending deposits or transfers, or if you want to withdraw cash before closure.
Online closure through Wells Fargo's website or mobile app is not available for savings accounts. You must use the phone or a branch visit.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-800-869-3557 to close by phone, or visit a branch in person with your ID and account number.
- Wells Fargo will mail any remaining balance to your address on file within five to seven business days after closure.
- Make sure all pending transactions and automatic transfers have cleared before you close, or they may be rejected.
- If you have a linked checking account or credit card, closing the savings account does not affect those accounts.
- There is no penalty or fee to close a Wells Fargo savings account at any time.
What happens to your money when you close
When you close your savings account, Wells Fargo sends any remaining balance by check to the mailing address on file. The check arrives within five to seven business days after the account closes. If your address has changed, update it before you call or visit the branch, or ask the representative to mail the check to a different address.
If you want the money transferred to another bank account instead of mailed as a check, tell the representative before closure. They can arrange an electronic transfer to a checking account at Wells Fargo or another bank, though this may take an extra business day or two to process.
Any interest earned on the account through the closure date will be included in the final balance. If the account has a negative balance due to overdraft fees, you will owe that amount when you close.
Stop automatic transfers and pending deposits before closing
Before you close, check whether any automatic transfers, direct deposits, or bill payments are linked to the savings account. If a direct deposit or transfer tries to post after the account is closed, it will be rejected and may trigger a fee at your employer's payroll system or at the other bank.
Log into your Wells Fargo account online or call to review all scheduled transactions. Cancel any automatic transfers or bill payments that use the savings account. If you receive direct deposit, contact your employer's payroll department and provide your new account number (if you are moving the deposit to another account) or confirm that the deposit should stop.
Wait at least one full business day after canceling automatic transfers before you close the account, to make sure no pending transactions are still in the queue.
Closing a joint savings account
If the account is held jointly with another person, both account holders must consent to closure. You can close it over the phone if both owners are on the call, or one owner can visit a branch with written permission from the other owner. Wells Fargo will ask for the co-owner's signature on a form authorizing closure.
The remaining balance will be mailed to the address on file, which is typically the primary account holder's address. If the co-owner needs the check sent elsewhere, that must be arranged at the time of closure.
What to do if you have a Wells Fargo savings account with a hold
If Wells Fargo has placed a hold on the account due to a dispute, fraud investigation, or unpaid fees, you cannot close it until the hold is lifted. Call the number on your account statement or 1-800-869-3557 to find out why the hold is in place and how long it will remain.
Once the hold is removed, you can proceed with closure. If the hold is related to a dispute or investigation, ask the representative how long the process typically takes so you know when you can close.
Closing a savings account does not affect other accounts
Closing a Wells Fargo savings account has no impact on a linked checking account, credit card, or money market account. Each account is separate, and closing one does not close the others or affect your credit score.
If you have overdraft protection set up between your savings and checking accounts, closing the savings account will remove that protection. Your checking account will no longer be able to draw from the savings account if it goes negative. If you rely on overdraft protection, set up a backup before you close.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close my Wells Fargo savings account online?
No. Wells Fargo does not offer online closure for savings accounts. You must call 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch in person. Online closure is not available through the website or mobile app.
Is there a fee to close a Wells Fargo savings account?
No. Wells Fargo does not charge a fee to close a savings account. You can close at any time without penalty.
How long does it take to close a Wells Fargo savings account?
Over the phone or at a branch, the account closes within one to three business days. Your remaining balance arrives by check within five to seven business days after closure. If you arrange an electronic transfer instead, add one to two extra business days.
What if I close my account and then need to reopen it?
You can reopen a Wells Fargo savings account at any time by visiting a branch or calling 1-800-869-3557. There is no waiting period. You will need to provide an initial deposit and choose an account type.
Can I close my account if I have a negative balance?
Yes, but you will owe the negative amount. Wells Fargo will deduct it from your final balance or send you an invoice if the balance is not enough to cover the overdraft fees. Pay any outstanding balance before closure to avoid collection action.