You can close a Citizens Bank savings account online through your digital banking portal, but the process depends on your account balance and whether you have linked accounts
Citizens Bank does not offer a complete account closure through their online banking app or website. You can initiate the closure request online, but you will need to speak with a representative to finish it. The bank requires this conversation to confirm your identity, handle any remaining balance, and may support you do not have automatic payments or direct deposits still tied to the account.
If your account has a zero balance and no pending transactions, the online request moves faster. If money remains in the account, Citizens Bank will ask how you want it transferred — to another Citizens account, to an external bank account, or by check. This step cannot be completed without speaking to someone directly.
Key Takeaways
- Start your closure request through Citizens Bank's online portal or mobile app, but you will need to call to complete it.
- Empty your savings account to a zero balance before requesting closure, or be prepared to direct where the remaining funds should go.
- Citizens Bank will ask about any linked accounts, automatic payments, or direct deposits before processing the closure.
- The full closure typically takes three to five business days after your phone conversation with a representative.
- If you cannot reach the online closure option, calling 1-800-922-9999 (Citizens Bank customer service) is the direct route.
Starting the closure request online
Log into your Citizens Bank account through the website or mobile app. Navigate to the account settings or account management section — the exact location varies slightly between the app and website, but it is typically under "Settings," "Account Services," or "Manage Accounts." Look for an option labeled "Close Account" or "Account Closure."
Citizens Bank will show you a summary of your account, including the current balance and any pending transactions. If the balance is not zero, the system will prompt you to transfer the money before proceeding. You can transfer funds to another Citizens account when ready through the online portal, or you can note that you will direct the funds elsewhere during your call with a representative.
After you submit the online request, Citizens Bank generates a reference number. Write this down — you will use it when you call to complete the closure. The online request does not close the account; it flags it for closure and schedules a callback or prepares your file for when you call in.
What happens when you call to finish the closure
Call Citizens Bank at 1-800-922-9999 during business hours (typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time; Saturday hours vary by location). Have your reference number from the online request ready, along with your account number and a form of identification.
The representative will confirm your identity, review any remaining balance, and ask about linked accounts. If you have automatic bill payments, recurring transfers, or direct deposits connected to this savings account, the bank needs to know so those do not fail after closure. You will need to update those services with a different account number before the closure is final.
The representative will also ask where you want any remaining funds sent. You can transfer to another Citizens account when ready, provide an external bank account for an ACH transfer (which takes one to two business days), or request a check by mail (which takes five to seven business days). Once these details are confirmed, the representative will process the closure request.
Timing and what to expect after closure
After your phone call, the account closure is usually complete within three to five business days. During this time, the account remains open but inactive. Do not attempt to use the debit card (if one is attached) or make deposits, as transactions may be declined or reversed.
If you requested a check, it will arrive within five to seven business days from the closure date. If you provided an external bank account, the transfer typically posts within one to two business days. You will receive a confirmation email or letter from Citizens Bank once the closure is final.
After closure, you will no longer see the account in your online banking portal. If you need a record of the account for tax or legal purposes, Citizens Bank can mail you a final statement. Request this during your closure call if you think you will need it.
If you cannot find the online closure option
Some Citizens Bank accounts — particularly older accounts, business accounts, or accounts with special features — do not have the online closure option visible in the portal. If you cannot locate "Close Account" in your settings, call 1-800-922-9999 directly and ask a representative to start the closure process over the phone.
You do not need to complete an online request first. The representative can initiate everything during that single call, confirm your identity, handle your balance, and process the closure without requiring you to log back in. This route takes the same three to five business days to complete.
What to do before you close the account
Review your account for any automatic payments, recurring transfers, or direct deposits. Log into any services that use this savings account — payroll systems, bill pay services, subscription payments — and update them with a different account number. If you do not, those transactions will fail after the account closes.
Transfer any remaining balance to another account or confirm you are comfortable receiving it by check or external transfer. Withdraw any cash you need. If you have a debit card linked to this savings account, you will not be able to use it after closure, so plan accordingly.
Check whether you have a minimum balance requirement or monthly fee on the account. Some Citizens Bank savings accounts charge a fee if the balance drops below a certain amount. If you are closing because of fees, confirm that the new account you are moving to (if applicable) does not have the same issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have a negative balance or owe Citizens Bank money?
Citizens Bank will not close an account with a negative balance. You must bring the account to zero or positive before closure. If you owe money, the bank will explore any linked accounts or pending deposits to settle the debt. Call 1-800-922-9999 to discuss payment options if the negative balance is large.
Can I reopen the account after I close it?
Citizens Bank typically allows you to reopen a closed account within a short window (usually 30 to 90 days), but this depends on the reason for closure and your account history. Call the bank to ask whether reopening is possible in your situation. After that window, you would need to open a new account.
Will closing my savings account affect my credit score?
Closing a savings account does not affect your credit score because savings accounts do not appear on your credit report. Only credit accounts (credit cards, loans, lines of credit) impact your credit. Closing a savings account is a routine banking action with no credit consequences.
How long does it take to close the account after I call?
The account is usually closed within three to five business days after your phone call. If you requested a check, add five to seven more days for mail delivery. If you provided an external bank account, the transfer posts within one to two business days, and the account closes once the funds leave.
What if I have a joint account — can I close it alone?
If the account is joint, both account holders typically need to consent to closure. Call Citizens Bank to confirm the account structure. If you are the sole owner, you can close it alone. If it is joint, the other owner may need to be on the call or provide written consent.