You can close most Chase accounts over the phone, but the process depends on what type of account you have and whether you have outstanding balances or linked services
Chase allows you to close checking and savings accounts by calling their customer service line at 1-800-935-9935. A representative can walk you through the closure, confirm your account details, and arrange for any remaining balance to be sent to you. The call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. However, if your account has a negative balance, active loans, credit cards with balances, or linked services like bill pay or transfers, the process becomes more complicated and may require additional steps or a visit to a branch.
Before you call, gather your account number, Social Security number, and a form of identification. Know the reason you're closing the account—Chase may ask, and the answer can affect how quickly the closure is processed. If you have direct deposits or automatic payments set up, you'll need to redirect those before or when ready after closing, or Chase will reject the incoming and outgoing transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-800-935-9935 during business hours to close a Chase checking or savings account over the phone without visiting a branch.
- Have your account number, Social Security number, and ID ready before calling, and know whether you have any outstanding balances or linked services.
- If your account has a negative balance, active loans, or credit cards tied to it, you may need to resolve those issues first or visit a branch in person.
- Any remaining balance in your account will be mailed to you as a check, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after closure.
- Update your direct deposits and automatic payments before closing, because Chase will reject transactions to or from a closed account.
What happens to your money when you close the account
When you close a Chase account with a positive balance, Chase mails you a check for the remaining funds. This check is sent to the address on file and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you want the money faster, ask the representative during your call whether you can pick up a cashier's check at a local branch instead—some branches will do this the same day or next business day, though it is not may provide.
If your account has a negative balance (you owe Chase money), you cannot close it over the phone. You must bring the account current first by depositing funds or arranging a payment plan. Once the balance is zero or positive, you can proceed with closure. If you have a Chase credit card with an outstanding balance, that is a separate account and does not prevent you from closing your checking or savings account, but the credit card itself must be handled separately.
Accounts that cannot be closed by phone
Some Chase accounts require an in-person visit to close. If you have a Chase mortgage, home equity line of credit, auto loan, or investment account, you cannot close these over the phone. You will need to visit a Chase branch or contact the specific department that handles that product. For mortgages and home equity lines, contact Chase Home Lending at 1-800-848-9136. For auto loans, call 1-800-935-9935 and ask to be transferred to the auto loan department.
If your checking or savings account is linked to a Chase credit card through rewards programs or account management features, closing the bank account does not close the credit card. The credit card remains open and active. However, if the credit card has an outstanding balance, Chase may flag your account closure request and ask you to resolve the balance first, depending on your account history and credit standing.
Redirecting direct deposits and automatic payments before closure
This is the step most people forget, and it causes real problems. If you have direct deposits (paychecks, benefits, tax refunds) or automatic payments (utilities, loans, subscriptions) linked to your Chase account, you must update them before you close the account. Chase will reject any transactions to or from a closed account, which can result in late fees, missed payments, or delayed deposits.
Contact your employer, benefits provider, or each company you pay automatically and give them your new account number at another bank. Most employers and government agencies allow you to update this information online or by phone. For automatic payments, log into each company's website and change the payment method. Do this at least one week before you close your Chase account to make sure the changes process. If you close the account and then realize you missed updating something, contact Chase when ready—they may be able to reopen the account temporarily or redirect the transaction.
What to expect during the phone call
When you call 1-800-935-9935, you will be asked to verify your identity by providing your account number, Social Security number, and possibly a PIN or recent transaction. The representative will confirm the account type, current balance, and whether there are any linked services or outstanding issues. They will ask why you are closing the account—this is routine and does not affect your ability to close, but Chase uses this information for internal feedback.
The representative will then confirm the mailing address where your check will be sent and ask whether you want to close the account when ready or on a specific date. Most closures are effective the same day you call, though the check takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive. If you request a future closure date, make sure you do not have any pending transactions that might fail after that date. Once the closure is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation number—write this down for your records.
If Chase denies your closure request
In rare cases, Chase may refuse to close your account over the phone and require you to visit a branch. This usually happens if your account has fraud flags, an unusually high number of recent transactions, or a pattern that triggers their compliance review. If this occurs, ask the representative why the account cannot be closed and what you need to do to resolve it. You may need to bring documentation to a branch, such as proof of address or explanation of recent activity.
If you believe Chase is wrongfully refusing to close your account, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov. The CFPB investigates complaints about bank practices and can compel Chase to respond. However, this process takes weeks or months, so if you need the account closed quickly, visiting a branch in person is usually faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my check to arrive after I close my account?
Chase mails checks within 7 to 10 business days of closure. The actual arrival depends on your postal service and distance from the processing center. If you need the money faster, ask during your call whether you can pick up a cashier's check at a branch instead.
Can I close my Chase account if I have a pending direct deposit?
You can close the account, but the pending deposit will be rejected and returned to the sender. Update your direct deposit information with your employer or benefits provider before closing, or wait until after the deposit clears. This prevents delays and fees.
What if I close my account and then realize I forgot to update an automatic payment?
Contact Chase when ready at 1-800-935-9935 and explain the situation. They may reopen the account temporarily or help redirect the transaction. The sooner you call, the better your chances of preventing a failed payment or late fee.
Do I need to close my Chase credit card if I close my checking account?
No. Your credit card is a separate account and remains open and active. Closing your checking or savings account does not affect your credit card. You can keep the card open or close it separately if you choose.
Can I close my account if it has a negative balance?
No. You must bring the account to zero or positive balance first by depositing funds or arranging a payment. Once the balance is settled, you can close the account over the phone.