You can close a BMO checking account online through their website or mobile app, but you'll need to handle the final steps by phone or in person
BMO does not offer a complete online account closure process. You can initiate the closure through your online banking portal or the BMO mobile app, but a representative must verify your identity and confirm the closure over the phone. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you reach someone, and the account typically closes within one to three business days after that conversation.
Before you start, make sure any outstanding checks have cleared, automatic payments are redirected to another account, and your account balance is zero or you've arranged to withdraw or transfer remaining funds. BMO will not close an account with an outstanding balance or pending transactions.
Key Takeaways
- You must call BMO to complete the closure even if you start the process online, because they require phone verification of your identity.
- Your account balance must be zero before closure—transfer or withdraw any remaining money first.
- Stop or redirect any automatic payments, direct deposits, or recurring transfers linked to the account at least a week before you close it.
- The account closes within one to three business days after your phone call with BMO, though it may take longer for the closure to appear in your records.
Steps to close your account through BMO online banking
Log into your BMO online banking account at bmo.com or open the BMO mobile app. Navigate to the account settings or account management section—this is usually found under "Settings," "Profile," or "My Accounts," depending on which platform you're using.
Look for an option labeled "Close Account," "Account Closure," or "Manage Account." Click or tap it. BMO will show you a summary of your account and ask you to confirm that your balance is zero and that you understand the account will be closed. You'll also see a prompt to call BMO to complete the process.
At this point, you cannot finish online. Write down the phone number BMO provides, or note that you've initiated the request. You'll call within the next few days to speak with a representative who will verify your identity and finalize the closure.
What to do before you call BMO to close the account
Transfer or withdraw your entire account balance. If you have money in the account, BMO will not close it. You can transfer funds to another bank account through online banking, or withdraw cash at a BMO branch or ATM. If you're unsure of your balance, log into online banking and check the account summary.
Stop or change any automatic payments or recurring transfers. Check your online banking for any scheduled bill payments, subscription charges, or automatic transfers set to come out of this account. Cancel them or redirect them to another account at least seven days before you call to close. If you miss one and a payment tries to process after closure, it will be rejected and may trigger an overdraft fee or late payment on the bill itself.
Check for pending transactions. If you've recently made a purchase with a debit card or written a check, wait for it to clear before closing the account. Pending transactions can delay closure. You can see pending items in your transaction history in online banking.
Gather your account number and a form of ID. When you call, BMO will ask for your account number and will verify your identity using information from your account, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up. Have your ID ready in case they ask for it.
How to complete the closure over the phone
Call the number BMO provided when you initiated the closure online, or call BMO customer service at 1-800-BMO-1234 (1-800-266-1234). Tell the representative you want to close your checking account. They will ask for your account number and will verify your identity.
Confirm that your balance is zero and that you have no pending transactions. The representative will review your account one more time to make sure everything is clear. If there are any outstanding items, they will tell you what needs to be resolved before closure can proceed.
Once everything checks out, the representative will process the closure. They will give you a confirmation number and tell you when the account will be closed—usually within one to three business days. Write down the confirmation number for your records.
What happens after you close the account
Your account will stop accepting deposits and withdrawals within one to three business days. Any debit cards linked to the account will stop working. If you have checks printed with this account number, they will be rejected if anyone tries to cash them after the closure date.
BMO will send you a final statement showing the closure date and your final balance. This may take up to two weeks to arrive by mail. You can also log into online banking to see the closure confirmation, though the account may remain visible in your account list for a short time after closure.
If you set up automatic payments or direct deposits before closing, you are responsible for updating those with your new bank account information. BMO will not forward these to another account. If a payment or deposit tries to process after closure, it will be rejected.
If you cannot close online or prefer to close in person
You can close your account by visiting a BMO branch in person. Bring your ID and your account number. A representative will verify your identity, confirm your balance is zero, and process the closure on the spot. The account will close within one to three business days.
You can also close by phone without initiating the request online. Call 1-800-266-1234, tell the representative you want to close your checking account, and follow the same verification and confirmation steps. This route takes the same amount of time as the online-to-phone method.
Common reasons account closure is delayed
Outstanding balance: If your account still has money in it, BMO will not close it. You must transfer or withdraw the full amount first. If you're having trouble accessing your funds or don't know your balance, call BMO before you try to close.
Pending transactions: Checks you've written, debit card purchases, or transfers that have not yet cleared will block closure. Wait for these to post before calling to close. This usually takes three to five business days.
Automatic payments still scheduled: If you have recurring bill payments or transfers set to come out of the account, BMO will ask you to cancel or redirect them before closing. Do this in online banking at least a week before your closure call.
Identity verification issues: If BMO cannot verify your identity over the phone, they may ask you to visit a branch in person or provide additional documentation. This is rare but can add a few days to the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close my BMO checking account the same day I call?
No. BMO will process your request the same day you call, but the account will not actually close for one to three business days. During that time, the account is still active and can still receive deposits or process pending transactions. Once the closure date passes, the account is closed and cannot be reopened.
What if I have a BMO savings account too—will closing my checking account affect it?
No. Closing one account does not affect any other accounts you have with BMO. Your savings account, money market account, or any other products will remain open and active. You must close each account separately if you want to close them all.
Can someone else close my account for me?
No. BMO requires the account holder to verify their identity before closing. If you are unable to call or visit a branch, you can authorize someone to act on your behalf by setting up power of attorney, but you will still need to contact BMO directly to initiate the closure request.
Will closing my account hurt my credit score?
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 do not appear on your credit report.
What if I change my mind after I close the account?
Once the account is closed, it cannot be reopened. If you change your mind, you will need to open a new checking account. You can do this online or at a BMO branch, and it usually takes a few minutes.