You can close a Bank of America checking account online through their website or mobile app, but only if your account is in good standing and has a zero balance
Bank of America lets you close a checking account without visiting a branch. You log into your account online, navigate to the account settings, and request closure. The process takes a few minutes, but the account doesn't actually close when ready — Bank of America processes the closure over the next few business days. If you have pending transactions, a negative balance, or outstanding checks, you'll need to resolve those first or close the account by phone or in person instead.
The online method works best when your account is already empty and you have no outstanding activity. If you're unsure whether your account is ready to close, checking your balance and recent transactions first saves you a trip back to the process.
Key Takeaways
- Your checking account must have a zero balance before you can close it online through the Bank of America website or mobile app.
- Any pending transactions, outstanding checks, or negative balances will block online closure and require you to call or visit a branch instead.
- After you request closure online, Bank of America takes several business days to process it, so don't expect the account to disappear when ready.
- If you have direct deposits or automatic payments set up, move those to another account before closing to avoid missed payments or lost deposits.
Steps to close your account online
Log into your Bank of America account through their website or the mobile app. Navigate to the account you want to close — this is important if you have multiple accounts. Look for account settings or account management options, usually found in a menu labeled "Settings," "Profile," or the three-line menu icon on mobile.
Once you're in account settings, find the option to close or deactivate the account. Bank of America labels this differently depending on whether you're using the website or app, but it will be near other account management options. Select it and follow the prompts. The system will ask you to confirm your choice and may ask why you're closing the account — this is optional feedback and won't affect the closure.
After you submit the closure request, you'll see a confirmation message with a reference number. Save this number in case you need to follow up. The account will remain open for a few more business days while Bank of America processes the request, then it will close automatically.
What you need to do before closing
Move any money out of the account first. Even a few cents will block online closure. Transfer the remaining balance to another bank account you own, or withdraw it in cash at a Bank of America branch or ATM.
Check for pending transactions. If you have checks you've written that haven't cleared yet, or if you're waiting for a deposit to post, wait until those clear before closing. Pending activity can prevent online closure. You can see pending transactions in your account history — they usually show as "pending" or with a different color or icon than posted transactions.
Redirect direct deposits and automatic payments. If your paycheck or other regular deposits go to this account, change the deposit information with your employer or the organization sending the money. If you have automatic bill payments or transfers set up from this account, update those to pull from a different account instead. Closing the account won't stop these payments automatically — they'll fail, which can result in late fees or missed bills.
Check for overdraft protection or linked accounts. If this checking account is linked to a savings account for overdraft coverage, or if you have other accounts connected to it, you may need to remove those links before closing. Your Bank of America account settings will show any linked accounts.
When you can't close online and need to call or visit
If your account has a negative balance, you owe Bank of America money. You must pay the negative balance before closing. Call Bank of America at the number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch to pay it and then close the account.
If you have outstanding checks or pending transactions that won't clear, the online closure won't work. Call 1-800-432-1000 to speak with a representative who can close the account manually, or visit a branch in person. They can close the account even with pending activity, though they may ask you to wait a few more days for everything to clear first.
If the online closure fails for any reason, or if you get an error message, don't try repeatedly. Call the number on your debit card or visit a branch instead. A representative can close the account when ready and explain why the online method didn't work.
What happens after you request closure
Your account will remain open for several business days after you submit the closure request. During this time, any pending transactions will continue to process. Don't be alarmed if you see activity after you've requested closure — this is normal and expected.
Once the account is fully closed, you won't be able to use the debit card, make transfers, or access the account online. If you need to reopen it within a short time, contact Bank of America — some banks will reopen recently closed accounts without requiring a new process, though this varies by situation.
Bank of America will not send you a confirmation letter in the mail for online closures, though some account statements may show the closure date. Keep your reference number from the closure request in case you need to prove the account was closed for tax or legal purposes.
Alternatives if you want to keep the account open
If you're closing because of monthly fees, ask about switching to a different Bank of America checking account with lower or no fees. Bank of America offers several account types, and some have no monthly maintenance fee if you meet certain requirements like setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance.
If you're closing because you're unhappy with the bank, consider whether a specific problem — like customer service, branch access, or fees — could be solved by switching accounts within Bank of America before you leave entirely. A branch representative or phone representative can walk you through the options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will closing my Bank of America checking account hurt my credit?
No. Closing a checking account does not affect your credit score. Credit scores are based on credit history — loans, credit cards, and payment history. Checking accounts don't appear on your credit report, so closing one has no impact on your credit.
What if I close my account and then need to access it again?
Once closed, you cannot reopen the same account. You would need to open a new checking account. If you closed it very recently, call Bank of America when ready — some banks will reverse a closure within a short window, though this is not may provide and depends on how far the closure process has progressed.
Do I need to destroy my debit card after closing?
You should destroy or dispose of your debit card after the account closes, but it's not urgent. Once the account is closed, the card will no longer work at ATMs or stores. Cutting it up or shredding it is a good practice to prevent someone from finding it and attempting to use it, though the card itself will be useless.
Can I close the account if I have a negative balance?
No, not online. You must pay the negative balance first. Contact Bank of America by phone or visit a branch, pay what you owe, and then the account can be closed. If you don't pay the negative balance, the account will remain open and Bank of America may pursue collection.
How long does it take for the account to fully close after I request it online?
Bank of America typically processes online closure requests within three to five business days. The exact timing depends on whether there are pending transactions. Once it's closed, you'll no longer see the account in your online banking, though it may take a few more days to disappear from your statement history.