You can close a Chase account online, by phone, or in person — the fastest way depends on your account type
Chase lets you close most checking and savings accounts through their website, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch in person. The online method takes minutes if you have no pending transactions or automatic payments tied to the account. If you have direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or a balance that needs to move elsewhere, you'll need to handle those first — Chase won't close an account with active money movement.
The process itself is straightforward, but the timing depends on what's attached to the account. A simple savings account with no activity can close the same day. An account with scheduled transfers or pending checks may take a few business days to fully close after you initiate the request.
Key Takeaways
- Remove or redirect any automatic payments, direct deposits, or recurring transfers before closing, or Chase will delay the closure.
- Withdraw or transfer any remaining balance to another bank account before you close, since Chase will not mail you a check for small amounts.
- Closing online through Chase.com takes 5 to 10 minutes if the account is clean; calling 1-800-935-9935 works if you prefer to speak to someone.
- After you close, keep your account statements for at least one year in case you need proof of closure or to dispute a charge.
Prepare your account before you close it
Before you start the closure process, move any money you want to keep and stop any automatic activity. Log into your Chase account and look for any recurring payments, automatic transfers, or direct deposits scheduled to hit that account. If you find any, change them to point to a different bank account or turn them off entirely.
Next, withdraw or transfer your remaining balance. If you have a small amount left (usually under $100), Chase may hold it rather than mail you a check. Transfer the balance to another account you control, or withdraw it in cash at a Chase branch or ATM. Once the account shows a zero balance and no pending transactions, you're ready to close.
If you have checks still in circulation, wait until you're confident they've all cleared before closing. A closed account can still receive deposits for a short time, but it's cleaner to wait. Similarly, if you're waiting for a refund or reimbursement to post, let it land first.
Close your account online through Chase.com
Log into your Chase account on a computer or the Chase mobile app. Go to the account you want to close and look for the account settings or account details section — the exact location varies slightly between checking and savings accounts. You should see an option to close the account or manage the account.
Click the close account option. Chase will ask you to confirm that you want to close it and may ask why (this is optional feedback). Review the confirmation screen to make sure you're closing the right account — this is important if you have multiple accounts. Once you confirm, the account closes immediately or within one business day, depending on whether any transactions are still pending.
You'll receive a confirmation email from Chase. Save this email or take a screenshot. If you need proof of closure later — for a mortgage application, a background check, or to dispute something — this confirmation is your record.
Close your account by phone
Call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935. Have your account number ready. Tell the representative you want to close the account. They'll verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, or other security questions.
The representative will confirm that your account has a zero balance and no pending transactions. If it doesn't, they'll tell you what needs to clear first. Once everything checks out, they'll process the closure over the phone. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Ask the representative to email you a confirmation of the closure, or note the date and time of the call and the representative's name. This gives you a record if you need it later.
Close your account in person at a Chase branch
Visit any Chase branch with a valid ID and your account number. Tell the teller or banker you want to close the account. They'll verify your identity and check that the account is ready to close — zero balance, no pending activity.
The banker will process the closure at the branch. This is the slowest method in terms of your time investment (you have to travel and wait), but it gives you a face-to-face record and an immediate answer if anything is wrong with the account. Ask for a written confirmation of closure before you leave.
What happens after you close the account
Once closed, the account number becomes inactive. You can no longer use it for deposits or withdrawals. Any checks or automatic payments tied to that account will bounce or fail. This is why it's critical to redirect everything before you close.
Chase keeps records of closed accounts for several years. If you need to look up a transaction from a closed account, you can contact Chase and they can usually retrieve it. Your statements remain available in your online account for a period after closure, though this varies.
If you closed the account in error or change your mind within a few days, contact Chase immediately. They may be able to reopen it, but this is not may provide and becomes harder the longer you wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have a pending check or transfer when I try to close?
Chase will not close the account until pending transactions clear. Wait for the check or transfer to post, then try closing again. This usually takes 3 to 5 business days. If a check is taking longer than expected, contact the person or company who sent it and ask them to reissue it to a different account.
Can I close a Chase account with a negative balance?
No. You must pay off any overdraft or negative balance before closing. Contact Chase to find out the exact amount owed, then transfer money in or pay it by debit card. Once the balance is zero or positive, you can close.
Will closing my Chase account hurt my credit score?
Closing a checking or savings account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores track credit accounts like credit cards and loans, not deposit accounts. However, if you had a Chase credit card tied to overdraft protection on this account, closing the bank account won't close the card.
How long does it take to close a Chase account?
If the account is clean with no pending activity, it closes the same day or within one business day. If there are pending transactions, it may take 3 to 5 business days for everything to clear before the closure is final. Online closure is fastest; in-person is immediate but requires your time.
What if I forgot to redirect my direct deposit before closing?
Contact your employer's payroll department immediately and give them your new bank account information. Ask them to update your direct deposit right away. If a paycheck lands in the closed account, contact Chase and they can usually redirect it to your new account or hold it for you to pick up.