The basic steps to close your Bank of America savings account
You can close a Bank of America savings account by visiting a branch in person, calling their customer service line, or using their online banking platform. The fastest method is usually in person at a branch where you can hand over your debit card and confirm the closure on the spot. If you close by phone, call 1-800-432-1000 and have your account number ready. Online closure is available through the BankAmericard app or website, though some account types may require a phone call or branch visit to complete the process.
Before you close the account, make sure any automatic transfers or bill payments linked to it are moved to another account. Bank of America will not automatically redirect these payments, and missing them could result in late fees or service interruptions. You should also withdraw or transfer any remaining balance — the bank will not hold funds after closure.
Key Takeaways
- You can close your account in person at a branch, by phone at 1-800-432-1000, or through online banking, depending on your account type.
- Move any automatic bill payments or transfers to another account before closing, as Bank of America will not forward them.
- Withdraw or transfer your full account balance before closure; the bank will not hold remaining funds.
- If you have a negative balance or outstanding fees, you must settle those before the account can close.
- Request written confirmation of closure and keep it for your records.
What to do with automatic payments and transfers before closing
Any recurring payments or transfers tied to your Bank of America savings account will stop working once the account closes. This includes direct deposits, automatic bill payments, transfers to other accounts, and subscription charges. You need to update each one individually before you close the account.
Log into your Bank of America account and review the "Transfers" and "Bill Pay" sections to see what is active. For each automatic payment, log into the biller's website or app and change the payment method to a different account or card. For transfers you set up, cancel them in your Bank of America account settings. If you have direct deposits going to this account, contact your employer's payroll department and provide them with your new account number.
Settling any outstanding balance or fees
Bank of America will not close an account that has a negative balance (meaning you owe the bank money) or unpaid fees. If your account is overdrawn, you must deposit enough money to bring it to zero or positive before closure is possible.
Check your account statement for any maintenance fees, overdraft fees, or other charges that have not been paid. If you dispute a fee, contact Bank of America before attempting to close — resolving the dispute may remove the charge. Once all fees are paid and your balance is zero or positive, you can proceed with closure.
Closing in person at a Bank of America branch
Visit any Bank of America branch with a valid government-issued ID and your debit card. Tell the representative you want to close your savings account. They will verify your identity, confirm there are no outstanding fees or negative balances, and process the closure immediately.
If you have a remaining balance, the representative will ask how you want to receive it — as a check mailed to your address, a transfer to another account, or cash. Request a written confirmation of closure and ask for the date it takes effect. Keep this confirmation in your records in case questions arise later.
Closing by phone with Bank of America customer service
Call 1-800-432-1000 and select the option for account services. Have your account number, Social Security number, and a form of ID ready. The representative will verify your identity and ask why you are closing the account — this is optional to answer.
The representative will confirm that all automatic payments have been moved and that your balance is zero or positive. They will process the closure and ask how you want any remaining funds sent to you. Request a confirmation number and the effective date of closure. Write down both and ask the representative to email or mail you written confirmation.
Closing through Bank of America's online platform
Log into your Bank of America account on the website or mobile app. Go to "Settings" or "Account Services," then look for an option labeled "Close Account" or "Manage Accounts." Not all account types allow online closure, so if you do not see this option, you will need to call or visit a branch instead.
If the option is available, select your savings account and follow the prompts. You will be asked to confirm that automatic payments have been moved and that you understand the account will close. After you submit, you should receive a confirmation number on screen. Take a screenshot and save it, then check your email for written confirmation within one to two business days.
What happens after you close your account
Bank of America typically closes the account within one to three business days after you request closure. During this time, any pending transactions may still post to the account. Once closed, you will no longer be able to access the account through online banking or your debit card.
If you had a debit card linked to this account, it will stop working. If you have other Bank of America accounts, those will remain open and unaffected. Keep your closure confirmation for at least one year in case you need to reference it for tax purposes or to dispute any charges that post after closure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reopen a Bank of America savings account after I close it?
Yes, you can open a new savings account at any time. However, if you closed the account due to a negative balance or unresolved dispute, Bank of America may flag your record. Contact the bank before opening a new account if you had issues with the previous one.
What if I still have pending transactions when I close my account?
Pending transactions may still post during the one- to three-day closure window. If a transaction posts after the account closes, contact Bank of America immediately. They can redirect the payment or reverse the charge if it was processed in error.
Do I need to close my debit card when I close my savings account?
If your debit card was linked only to this savings account, it will stop working automatically. If your card is linked to a checking account or another account, it will continue to work. You can request a new card if needed.
Will closing my savings account affect my credit score?
Closing a savings account does not directly affect your credit score because savings accounts do not appear on your credit report. However, if you had a negative balance that went to collections, that could impact your credit.
How long does it take to receive my remaining balance after closing?
If you requested a check, it typically arrives within five to seven business days. If you requested a transfer to another account, it usually posts within one to two business days. Cash given at a branch is available immediately.