You can close a Chase Total Checking account by phone, in person at a branch, or online through Chase's website — the fastest method is usually a phone call to the number on the back of your debit card.
Chase does not charge a fee to close the account, and you do not need to wait for any specific time period. However, you will need to handle a few things first: move any remaining money out, make sure no automatic payments are still connected to the account, and bring a valid ID if you close in person.
The process itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and Chase will send you written confirmation by mail within a few days. If you have a linked savings account or credit card, closing checking does not affect those — they stay open unless you close them separately.
Key Takeaways
- You can close your account by calling the number on your debit card, visiting a Chase branch in person, or using Chase's online banking portal.
- Before closing, withdraw or transfer all remaining money and cancel any automatic payments or bill pay set to that account.
- Chase sends written confirmation of closure by mail, which you should keep for your records.
- Closing a checking account does not close any linked savings accounts or credit cards you have with Chase.
- There is no fee to close the account, and you do not have to wait a certain number of days.
Closing by phone
Call the customer service number on the back of your Chase debit card. This is the fastest way because you reach someone when ready and can complete the closure in one call. Have your account number and a form of ID ready — the representative will ask you to verify your identity before proceeding.
The representative will ask why you are closing the account, but you do not have to give a detailed reason. They will confirm that your account balance is zero and that no automatic payments are pending. If you still have money in the account, they will ask you to move it first — they cannot close an account with a balance.
After you confirm, the account closes right away. The representative will give you a confirmation number. Write it down and ask them to mail you a written confirmation letter, which should arrive within 5 to 7 business days.
Closing at a Chase branch
Walk into any Chase branch with your debit card and a valid ID. Tell the teller you want to close your Total Checking account. They will pull up your account, confirm your balance is zero, and check for any pending transactions or automatic payments.
If everything is clear, they will process the closure on the spot. You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number. Ask the teller to note in the system that you want a written confirmation mailed to you.
Closing in person takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you leave with proof that day. This method works well if you prefer to handle banking face-to-face or if you want to ask questions in real time.
Closing through Chase's online banking
Log into your Chase account on the website or mobile app. Go to the account settings or account management section — the exact location varies slightly depending on whether you use the website or app. Look for an option that says "Close Account" or "Account Services."
Chase will ask you to confirm that your balance is zero and that you have no pending transactions. If you do, you will need to move that money first. Once you confirm, the account closes when ready.
You will see a confirmation number on screen. Take a screenshot or write it down. Chase will also send a confirmation email and a paper confirmation by mail within a few days. Keep both for your records.
What to do before you close
Move all remaining money out of the account. You can transfer it to another bank account you own, or withdraw it as cash. Chase will not close the account if any balance remains, even if it is just a few cents.
Cancel any automatic payments or bill pay that are set to this account. Log into your Chase account and check the bill pay section for any scheduled payments. Also check with any companies that pull money from your account automatically — utilities, subscriptions, insurance, loan payments. Update them with a new account number or payment method before you close.
If you have checks linked to this account, stop using them. Any checks that clear after the account closes will bounce, and you may face fees from both Chase and the recipient.
What happens after you close
Chase will send you a written confirmation letter by mail within 5 to 7 business days. This letter includes your confirmation number and the closure date. Keep this letter for your records — you may need it if a payment bounces or if you need proof the account is closed.
Any direct deposits or automatic payments that try to hit the account after closure will be rejected. If you have set up direct deposit with an employer, update your information with them right away so your paycheck goes to your new account instead.
Your debit card will stop working once the account is closed. You do not need to do anything with the card — it will straightforward decline if someone tries to use it. If you want to destroy it, you can cut it up or shred it.
If you have linked accounts
Closing your Total Checking account does not close any savings account, money market account, or credit card you have with Chase. Those accounts stay open and active unless you close them separately.
If you have overdraft protection set up between your checking and savings, that link will be removed when checking closes. Your savings account will continue to work normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to wait a certain number of days before closing?
No. Chase does not require you to keep the account open for any minimum time. You can close it when ready after opening it if you want, though some banks flag accounts closed within days of opening for fraud prevention reasons.
Will closing the account hurt my credit?
No. Closing a checking account does not appear on your credit report and does not affect your credit score. Credit reports track credit products like loans and credit cards, not checking accounts.
What if I have a pending check or payment that hasn't cleared yet?
Wait until it clears before closing. You can check your recent transactions in Chase's app or online banking to see what is still pending. Once everything has cleared, your balance will be zero and you can close.
Can I reopen the account after I close it?
You can open a new Chase Total Checking account at any time, but it will be treated as a new account with a new account number. You cannot reactivate the closed account itself.
What if I close the account but then receive a bill or payment meant for it?
Any payment sent to the closed account will be rejected and returned to the sender. This is why it is important to update your account information with your employer, creditors, and any companies that bill you before you close.