Yes, you can close a Chase checking account by phone, but Chase requires you to speak with a representative in person or by mail for some account types
Chase allows you to close most checking accounts by calling their customer service line at 1-800-935-9935. A representative can walk you through the process, answer questions about your balance, and confirm the closure. However, Chase does not close all account types over the phone — if you have certain account features or if there are complications with your account, they may require you to visit a branch in person or submit a written request by mail.
The phone route is usually the fastest if your account is straightforward: no pending transactions, no overdraft, and no linked services that need to be separated first. The call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will need your account number and Social Security number ready when you call.
Key Takeaways
- Call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 to close a checking account by phone; a representative will confirm your identity and process the closure.
- You must have a zero or positive balance before closing — if you owe money, you cannot close until the debt is paid.
- Chase will mail you a confirmation letter within 7 to 10 business days after the account closes.
- If your account has complications (pending disputes, linked accounts, or overdraft protection), Chase may require you to close in person at a branch or by mail.
- Any remaining balance will be mailed to you as a check, usually within 5 to 7 business days after closure.
What you need to have ready before you call
Gather your account number before dialing. You can find it on a check, your debit card, or a recent statement. Chase will also ask for your Social Security number and may ask security questions to confirm your identity — such as recent transactions or the address on file.
If you have a positive balance in the account, know the amount or have a recent statement in front of you. Chase will ask how you want the remaining funds sent — by check mailed to your address on file, or by transfer to another bank account. A check is the default and requires no additional information. A transfer to another bank is faster but requires your routing number and account number at the receiving bank.
What happens to your remaining balance
If your checking account has money in it when you close, Chase will send it to you. The most common method is a check mailed to the address on file with your account. This check usually arrives within 5 to 7 business days after the account officially closes.
You can also request that Chase transfer the balance to another bank account during the phone call. To do this, have your routing number and account number ready for the receiving bank. Transfers typically process within 3 to 5 business days. If you do not specify a method, Chase will default to mailing a check.
When Chase will not close your account by phone
Chase may require you to close in person or by mail if your account has an outstanding overdraft, a pending dispute, or linked services like overdraft protection or credit line connections. If you have recently reported fraud or filed a claim, Chase may also ask you to come to a branch.
If a representative tells you the account cannot be closed by phone, ask whether you can resolve the issue first — for example, by paying an overdraft balance — and then call back. If the issue cannot be resolved quickly, you can request a closure form by mail or visit a Chase branch with your ID and account information.
What to expect after you hang up
The account closes when ready after the representative confirms the closure on the phone. You will no longer be able to use your debit card or write checks from that account. Any automatic payments or direct deposits linked to the account will fail, so contact your employer and any companies with recurring charges to update your banking information before you close.
Chase will mail a confirmation letter to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Keep this letter for your records. If you do not receive it within two weeks, call Chase again to confirm the closure went through.
Closing a joint account by phone
If the account is held jointly with another person, both account holders must consent to the closure. Chase will ask to speak with both of you on the same call, or they may require one person to visit a branch with a signed authorization from the other account holder. Call ahead to ask which method Chase prefers for your situation.
If you and the other account holder disagree about closing the account, one person cannot close it unilaterally. You will need to resolve the disagreement or visit a branch together with both IDs.
What to do if you have pending transactions or holds
If your account has a pending transaction — such as a check that has not cleared or a charge that is still processing — Chase may ask you to wait until it clears before closing. Pending transactions can take 3 to 5 business days to settle. You can ask the representative how long they estimate the pending item will take and call back once it clears.
If there is a hold on your account (for example, due to a dispute or fraud investigation), Chase cannot close the account until the hold is lifted. The representative will tell you when the hold is expected to be removed and suggest you call back at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to close my account in person?
No, most accounts can be closed by phone. You only need to visit a branch if your account has complications like an overdraft, a pending dispute, or linked services that cannot be separated remotely. Call first to ask whether your account can be closed by phone.
What if I have automatic payments set up on this account?
Automatic payments will fail once the account closes. Before you call to close, contact your employer (for direct deposit) and any companies with recurring charges (utilities, subscriptions, loan payments) to update your banking information. This prevents missed payments and late fees.
How long does it take for my remaining balance to arrive?
If Chase mails a check, it typically arrives within 5 to 7 business days after the account closes. If you request a transfer to another bank account, it usually takes 3 to 5 business days. The confirmation letter will specify which method you chose.
Can I reopen the account if I change my mind?
Once closed, the account cannot be reopened. You would need to open a new checking account. If you think you might need the account again soon, consider keeping it open or waiting until you are certain.
What if I forgot to update my direct deposit before closing?
Contact your employer when ready with your new bank account information. They can usually update your direct deposit within one or two pay periods. If a paycheck is deposited to the closed account, it will be returned to your employer, and they will reissue it once you provide the correct account number.