You can close most Wells Fargo accounts online through your account settings, but some account types require a phone call or branch visit
Wells Fargo lets you close checking and savings accounts through their website or mobile app without going to a branch. The process takes a few minutes: you log in, navigate to account settings, and request closure. However, if you have an active loan, credit card, or investment account tied to Wells Fargo, you may need to call or visit in person because the bank wants to confirm you understand what happens to those products.
Before you close anything, make sure your account balance is zero or positive. If you have pending transactions or automatic payments set to that account, those will fail after closure. Wells Fargo does not charge a fee to close an account, but you should verify there are no outstanding checks or scheduled transfers.
Key Takeaways
- Checking and savings accounts can be closed online through your Wells Fargo account dashboard or mobile app in a few minutes.
- You must have a zero or positive balance before closure; Wells Fargo will not close accounts with negative balances.
- Stop all automatic payments and transfers before you close the account, or they will be rejected after the closure date.
- If you have a loan, credit card, or investment account with Wells Fargo, you may need to call 1-800-869-3557 to close those separately.
- After closure, keep your account number and final statement for your records in case you need proof the account was closed.
Steps to close your account online
Log into your Wells Fargo account on the website or open the mobile app. Go to the account you want to close and look for "Account Settings" or "Manage Account." You should see an option that says "Close Account" or "Request Closure." Click it and follow the prompts. Wells Fargo will ask you to confirm the account balance and may ask why you are closing it — this is optional to answer.
After you submit the request, you will see a confirmation number on screen. Write it down or take a screenshot. Wells Fargo will send you an email confirmation with the closure date, usually within one to three business days. The account will remain open during this period so any pending deposits can clear. After the closure date, the account is closed and you cannot use it.
What to do before you close
Stop all automatic bill payments, direct deposits, and transfers at least one week before you close the account. Log into each service that pulls money from this account — your employer's payroll system, insurance companies, utilities, subscription services — and change the bank account information there. If you miss one, the payment will be rejected and you may face late fees from that company.
Withdraw or transfer any remaining balance to another account. If you have checks linked to this account, do not write any new ones. If you have outstanding checks that have not cleared, wait until they do before closing, or contact Wells Fargo to ask how they handle uncashed checks after closure.
When you need to call instead of closing online
If you have a Wells Fargo credit card, auto loan, mortgage, or investment account, you cannot close those through the same online process as a checking account. Credit cards must be paid off and then closed by calling 1-800-869-3557. Loans and mortgages cannot be closed early without paying them off in full, and Wells Fargo will not let you close the linked deposit account until the loan is resolved.
If your account is overdrawn or has a negative balance, you must call to close it. Wells Fargo requires the balance to be brought to zero before they will process an online closure request. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time, and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.
What happens after your account closes
Once the account is closed, you cannot use the debit card, write checks, or make transfers from it. Any automatic payments scheduled after the closure date will be rejected. If a company tries to charge the closed account, it will fail and you may see a returned item fee from that company, so make sure you have updated all your payment information beforehand.
Wells Fargo will keep your account records for a period of time. If you need a copy of your final statement or transaction history, you can request it by calling customer service or visiting a branch. Keep your account number and closure confirmation number for your records.
Closing a joint account
If the account is held jointly with another person, both account holders must request closure or one person must have power of attorney over the account. Wells Fargo may require both people to call or visit a branch to confirm the closure, even if one person tries to close it online.
If you are unsure whether the other account holder will agree, contact Wells Fargo first to understand the process for your specific situation. You can reach them at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a local branch to discuss your options before you attempt to close the account online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wells Fargo charge a fee to close an account?
No, Wells Fargo does not charge a fee to close a checking or savings account. However, if your account is overdrawn when you close it, you may owe the negative balance. Some accounts may have early closure fees if closed within a certain period, so check your account agreement.
How long does it take for my account to close after I request it online?
The closure usually takes one to three business days after you submit the request. During this time, the account remains open so pending deposits can clear. You will receive an email with the exact closure date. After that date, the account is closed and cannot be used.
What if I change my mind after requesting closure?
If you request closure online and then change your mind before the closure date, call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 to cancel the request. Once the account is actually closed, you cannot reopen it under the same account number, though you can open a new account.
Can I close my account if I have a negative balance?
No, Wells Fargo will not close an account with a negative balance. You must bring the balance to zero or positive first. You can do this by depositing money or calling to arrange a payment plan if you cannot pay the full amount immediately.
Will closing my Wells Fargo account hurt my credit score?
Closing a checking or savings account does not directly affect your credit score because these accounts do not appear on your credit report. However, if you close a credit card account, it may have a small impact on your credit utilization ratio. Closing a loan account after paying it off is usually positive for your credit.