You can close a Chase joint account by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or using the Chase mobile app — but both account holders must agree, and you'll need to empty the account first.
A joint checking account is one that two or more people own together, with equal rights to the money and the account itself. Closing it is straightforward if both of you want to close it. If only one person wants out, the process is more complicated, because Chase requires consent from all account holders before they'll shut it down.
The basic steps are the same no matter which method you choose: move any remaining money out of the account, make sure there are no pending transactions, and then request the closure. Chase will not close an account that still has a balance, and they will not close it without permission from everyone whose name is on it.
Key Takeaways
- Both account holders must request the closure together or separately confirm they agree, because Chase requires consent from all owners.
- You must withdraw or transfer all money from the account before Chase will close it, and you should wait a few days after the last transaction to make sure nothing is still pending.
- You can close the account at any Chase branch, by phone at the number on the back of your debit card, or through the Chase mobile app if your bank allows it.
- After closure, Chase will send you a final statement showing the account is closed, and any remaining checks or debit cards tied to that account will stop working.
Emptying the account before you close it
Chase will not process a closure request if money is still in the account. Before you contact them, move all funds out. You can transfer the balance to another account at Chase, move it to a different bank, or withdraw it in cash.
If the account earns interest (some Chase checking accounts do), you may see a small deposit a few days before you close it. Wait for that to post, then move it out as well. Check your recent transactions to see if anything is still pending — a check you wrote that hasn't cleared yet, or an automatic payment that's scheduled but hasn't gone through. If there are pending items, wait until they post before you request closure. This prevents the account from being left open because of a transaction that's still in flight.
Closing at a Chase branch in person
Visit any Chase branch with both account holders present, or have one person go with a signed letter from the other saying they agree to close the account. Bring a photo ID. Tell the banker you want to close the joint checking account and provide the account number (it's on your checks or debit card).
The banker will confirm the account is empty, verify that both owners consent, and process the closure on the spot. They will give you a receipt showing the account is closed. This is the fastest method if you can both get to a branch, because there's no waiting for mail or phone callbacks.
Closing by phone
Call the number on the back of your Chase debit card or check. Tell the representative you want to close the joint checking account. They will ask for the account number and verify your identity by asking security questions.
If both account holders are on the call, the process is quick. If only one person is calling, Chase may ask you to have the other account holder call separately to confirm, or they may ask for written consent from the other owner. Ask the representative what they need before you hang up, so you know whether to expect a follow-up call or whether you need to mail in a signed form. Closure by phone usually takes a few business days to process after the representative confirms everything.
Closing through the Chase mobile app
Some Chase accounts can be closed through the mobile app, though not all checking accounts have this feature. Open the app, go to your account settings, find the option to close the account, and follow the prompts. The app will ask you to confirm the account is empty and that you want to proceed.
This method works only if both account holders have access to the app and the account is set up to allow closure through it. If you don't see a close account option in your settings, you'll need to use the branch or phone method instead. Check with Chase first if you're not sure whether your account can be closed this way.
What happens after the account closes
Chase will send a final statement to the address on file, showing the account is closed. Any debit cards or checks linked to that account will stop working when ready. If you have automatic payments or direct deposits set up on that account, they will fail, so make sure to update those with your new account information before you close.
The account will appear on your credit report as closed, but this does not hurt your credit score. It straightforward shows that the account is no longer active. If you ever need proof that the account is closed (for a loan process or other reason), you can contact Chase and ask them to send you a letter confirming the closure date.
When only one account holder wants to close the account
If you and the other account holder disagree about closing the account, Chase will not close it without both of your signatures or verbal consent. Your options are limited: you can remove yourself from the account, or you can ask the other person to remove you.
To remove yourself, visit a branch or call Chase and ask to be removed as an owner. The other account holder will remain on the account and can continue using it. This is different from closing the account — the account stays open, but you no longer have access to it or responsibility for it. The remaining owner can then use, manage, or eventually close the account on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there's still a small balance in the account?
Chase will not close the account until it reaches zero. Withdraw or transfer any remaining balance, including any interest that has posted. If there's a fee pending, wait for it to post and then move the remaining money out.
Can I close the account if the other person won't agree?
No. Chase requires consent from all account holders. You can ask to be removed from the account instead, which lets you walk away while the other person keeps it open. The remaining owner can then close it later if they choose.
Will closing the account hurt my credit?
No. Closing a checking account does not affect your credit score. It will show on your credit report as a closed account, but this is normal and does not lower your score.
How long does it take for the account to fully close?
If you close it at a branch, it's when ready. By phone or app, it usually takes a few business days. Chase will send a final statement confirming the closure, which may take another week or two to arrive by mail.
What if I have checks still outstanding?
Wait until any checks you've written have cleared before you close the account. If you close it while checks are pending, those checks may bounce. You can call Chase to ask which checks are still outstanding, or wait 30 days after your last check to be safe.