You can close a Citizens Bank savings account by phone, in person, or online, depending on your account type and what Citizens Bank offers in your region
Closing a savings account at Citizens Bank is straightforward, but the method available to you depends on whether you bank online, by phone, or at a branch. Most people can close an account without penalty, though you should check your account balance first and make sure any pending transactions have cleared. Citizens Bank does not charge a fee to close a savings account, but you do need to settle the account before the closure is final — meaning any remaining balance must be withdrawn or transferred out.
The fastest route is usually a phone call to the customer service number on the back of your debit card or your account statement. If you prefer to handle it in person, you can visit any Citizens Bank branch with a photo ID. Online closure is also an option for some account holders, though not all account types support it through the website or mobile app.
Key Takeaways
- You can close a Citizens Bank savings account by calling customer service, visiting a branch in person, or using online banking if your account type supports it.
- Before closing, withdraw or transfer your remaining balance and make sure all pending transactions have posted to avoid complications.
- Citizens Bank does not charge a fee to close a savings account, and the process typically takes a few minutes to a few days depending on your method.
- If you have automatic transfers or bill payments linked to the account, you should update or cancel those before closure to prevent failed transactions.
- After closure, keep your final statement for your records and watch for any unexpected charges in case the account was not fully closed.
Closing your account by phone
Calling Citizens Bank customer service is the most common way to close a savings account. The phone number is on the back of your debit card, on your monthly statement, or on the Citizens Bank website. Have your account number ready when you call, along with your Social Security number or the last four digits of it — the representative will ask for these to verify your identity.
The representative will confirm your current balance and ask how you want to handle any remaining money. If your balance is small, they may offer to mail you a check. If it is larger, you can request a transfer to another bank account — you will need to provide the routing number and account number of the receiving bank. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, and the account closure is processed when ready, though it may take a few business days to appear in your online banking.
Closing your account in person at a branch
If you prefer to close your account face-to-face, visit any Citizens Bank branch during business hours with a photo ID. Bring your debit card and account number if you have them, though the teller can look up your account with your ID and Social Security number. Let the teller know you want to close your savings account.
The teller will review your balance and ask how you want to withdraw the money. You can take a check on the spot, request a transfer to another account, or withdraw cash if the balance is not too large. The branch can usually process the closure the same day, and you will receive a confirmation receipt. If you have any pending transactions, the teller may ask you to wait a few days before closing to may support they clear.
Closing your account online
Some Citizens Bank customers can close a savings account through online banking or the mobile app, though this option is not available for all account types. Log into your account, look for settings or account management options, and search for a "close account" or "account closure" link. The exact steps vary depending on your device and which version of the app or website you are using.
If you do not see a closure option online, it means your account type does not support online closure — in that case, you will need to call or visit a branch. Online closure is usually faster than phone or branch closure, and you will receive a confirmation email once the process is complete.
What to do with your remaining balance
Before you close the account, decide what to do with any money left in it. You have three main options: take a check, request a direct transfer to another bank account, or withdraw cash at a branch. If your balance is under $100, Citizens Bank may mail you a check automatically. If it is larger, you can choose your preferred method.
A direct transfer is usually the fastest and safest option if you have another bank account. You will need to provide the routing number and account number of the receiving bank — you can find these on a check from that account or by logging into that bank's website. The transfer typically takes one to three business days. If you do not have another account ready, a check is fine, though it may take a week or more to arrive by mail.
Canceling linked payments and transfers before closure
If you have set up automatic bill payments, direct deposits, or transfers from this savings account, you need to cancel or update them before closing the account. Check your online banking for any recurring transactions linked to this account. If you find any, either cancel them or change them to a different account.
If you forget to cancel an automatic payment and it tries to process after the account is closed, the payment will fail and you may be charged a fee by the company trying to collect. Your utility company, insurance provider, or loan servicer may also charge you a late fee if the payment bounces. Spend a few minutes reviewing your account activity before you close to avoid this problem.
What happens after you close the account
Once Citizens Bank processes your closure, the account will no longer accept deposits or withdrawals. You will no longer receive monthly statements for that account. If you had a debit card linked to the savings account, that card will stop working for that account, though you may have other accounts the card can still access.
Keep your final statement for your records. If you notice any unexpected charges or activity on the account after closure, contact Citizens Bank when ready. In rare cases, an account is not fully closed on the first attempt, so check your online banking a few days after closure to confirm the account no longer appears in your account list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Citizens Bank charge me a fee to close my savings account?
No. Citizens Bank does not charge a fee to close a savings account. However, if you have a negative balance or outstanding fees, those must be paid before the account can be closed.
How long does it take to close a Citizens Bank savings account?
The closure itself is when ready when you call or visit a branch, but it may take a few business days to stop appearing in your online banking. If you request a transfer to another bank, that transfer takes one to three business days.
Can I reopen a Citizens Bank savings account after I close it?
Yes, you can open a new savings account with Citizens Bank at any time. However, you cannot reactivate the same closed account — you would need to open a new one with a new account number.
What if I have a negative balance when I try to close my account?
You will need to deposit money to cover the negative balance before Citizens Bank will close the account. Contact customer service to find out exactly how much you owe, including any fees.
Do I need to close my checking account if I am closing my savings account?
No. Closing a savings account does not affect any other accounts you have with Citizens Bank. You can close just the savings account and keep your checking account open.