You can close a Chase savings account online through the Chase mobile app or website, but only if your account balance is zero and you have no pending transactions
Chase does not offer a fully online closure process for savings accounts. You can initiate the closure and transfer your remaining balance through their digital channels, but you will need to either move your money out first or call Chase to complete the final step. The process takes a few minutes if your account is already empty, or a few days if you need to transfer funds out first.
The reason for this partial restriction is that Chase requires verification of your identity and confirmation that no outstanding checks or automatic payments are tied to the account. Their system flags accounts with pending activity, and a phone call with a representative ensures nothing is left behind that could cause problems later.
Key Takeaways
- Chase savings accounts cannot be closed entirely online; you must call to complete the closure even if you start the process digitally.
- Your account balance must be zero before closure, so transfer or withdraw all remaining money first.
- The fastest route is to empty the account online, then call Chase at the number on the back of your card to finish the closure.
- Chase will ask you to confirm there are no pending transactions, automatic transfers, or linked accounts before they close the account.
- Closing takes one business day once you call, and you will receive written confirmation by mail within one to two weeks.
How to empty your account before closure
Log into Chase.com or the Chase mobile app and navigate to your savings account. Select the option to transfer funds (usually labeled "Transfer Money" or "Move Money"). You can transfer your balance to another Chase account you own, to an external bank account, or withdraw it as a check or cash at a Chase branch.
If you are transferring to another Chase account, the money moves when ready. If you are sending it to an external bank account, Chase will ask for the routing number and account number; this transfer typically takes one to two business days. If you withdraw cash or request a check, do that at a branch or through the app's mobile check deposit feature.
Wait until the transfer shows as complete in your account history before you proceed to close. Do not close the account while a transfer is pending, because Chase may reject the closure request or the transfer may fail.
Calling Chase to complete the closure
Once your balance is zero, call the number on the back of your Chase debit card or savings account statement. You can also find the customer service number on Chase.com. Have your account number and a form of ID ready.
Tell the representative you want to close your savings account. They will ask you to confirm that there are no pending transactions, automatic bill payments, or linked transfers. They will also verify your identity by asking security questions or requesting the last four digits of your Social Security number.
The representative will process the closure when ready. You will receive a confirmation number by phone and a written confirmation letter in the mail within one to two weeks. The account will be closed by the end of that business day.
What happens to your debit card and linked accounts
Closing a savings account does not affect your Chase debit card or checking account. If your debit card is linked only to the savings account you are closing, Chase may issue you a new card linked to your checking account, or they may deactivate the card entirely. Ask the representative during your closure call what will happen to your card.
If you have automatic transfers set up between your savings account and another account (such as a monthly transfer from checking to savings), those transfers will stop once the account closes. If you want to keep that pattern going, set up a new transfer to a different savings account before you close the original one.
Why Chase will not close your account if the balance is not zero
Chase's system requires a zero balance because outstanding funds create a liability on their books. If you close an account with money still in it, Chase does not know whether you forgot about the balance or whether you want it transferred somewhere. Requiring you to move the money first ensures there is no confusion and no unclaimed funds left behind.
Additionally, Chase needs to confirm that no checks you wrote against the account are still pending. If you close the account and a check clears afterward, it will bounce, and Chase will charge you a fee. The phone call with a representative is their final check that this will not happen.
Alternatives if you want to keep the account open
If you are closing because of monthly fees, you can instead change your account type. Chase offers savings accounts with no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually $300 to $500, depending on the account type) or set up direct deposit. Call Chase or log into your account to see which fee-free options you may have access to for.
If you are closing because you do not use the account, you can straightforward leave it open with a zero balance. Chase will not charge you a fee on an inactive account as long as it has no outstanding issues. This option keeps the account available if you need it later without the hassle of reopening.
What to do if you cannot reach Chase by phone
If you prefer not to call, you can visit a Chase branch in person with your ID and account information. A banker can close the account on the spot, provided your balance is zero. This takes about five minutes and you will receive your confirmation number when ready.
Chase does not offer closure through find messaging or email, so phone or in-person are your only options once the account is empty. If you are outside the United States or do not have access to a branch, the phone line is your best route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will closing my savings account hurt my credit score?
No. Closing a savings account does not affect your credit because savings accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. Only credit products like credit cards, loans, and lines of credit appear on your credit report. Closing a savings account has no impact on your creditworthiness.
How long does it take for the account to fully close after I call?
The account closes by the end of the business day you call. You will receive a written confirmation letter in the mail within one to two weeks. Once closed, you cannot use the account or access any remaining funds, so make sure your balance is zero before you call.
What if I have a pending direct deposit scheduled to hit this account?
Cancel or redirect the direct deposit before you close the account. If a deposit hits after closure, Chase will return it to the sender, and you may have to contact your employer or the sending institution to reissue it. Change your direct deposit instructions at least one business day before you call to close.
Can I reopen the account after I close it?
Yes, but Chase treats it as a new account. You will need to go through the account opening process again, which includes identity verification and a soft credit check. There is no penalty for reopening, but it is treated as a separate account from the one you closed.
Do I need to close the account in person, or can I really do it by phone?
You can do it by phone once your balance is zero. In-person closure at a branch is faster if you have one nearby, but phone closure is equally valid and takes about five minutes. Either method results in the same outcome and confirmation.