You can close most Barclays savings accounts online through your Barclays app or online banking portal, but some account types require a phone call or branch visit
Barclays lets you close many savings accounts from your phone or computer, but the method depends on which type of account you have and whether you have money still in it. If your account is in good standing — meaning no disputes or holds — the online route usually takes a few minutes. Some accounts, particularly older ones or those with specific restrictions, must be closed by calling Barclays or visiting a branch in person.
The fastest way to find out whether your account can close online is to log into your Barclays app or online banking and look for account settings or account management options. If you see a "close account" or "close savings account" button, you can proceed. If that option does not appear, you will need to phone Barclays or go to a branch.
Key Takeaways
- Most Barclays savings accounts can be closed online through the Barclays app or website if the account is in good standing and has no holds or disputes.
- Before closing, withdraw or transfer any remaining balance, as Barclays will not hold money from a closed account indefinitely.
- If you cannot find a close account option in your app or online banking, phone Barclays on 0345 600 1556 or visit a branch, as some account types require this.
- Closing an account does not affect your credit file, but keeping records of the closure confirmation is useful for your own records.
Steps to close your account online
Log into your Barclays app or visit barclays.co.uk and sign in to your online banking. Navigate to the account you want to close — this is usually under "Accounts" or "My Accounts" depending on which platform you are using. Look for a settings icon or menu option next to the savings account name.
Once you find the account settings, look for an option that says "Close account", "Close this account", or similar wording. Click or tap it. Barclays will ask you to confirm that you want to close the account and may ask why you are closing it — this is optional information. The system will also check that your account balance is zero. If you still have money in the account, you must transfer or withdraw it first before you can proceed with closing.
After you confirm, Barclays will show you a closure confirmation on screen. Take a screenshot or note the confirmation number, as you may need it later for your records. The account will close when ready, though it may take a few days to disappear completely from your app or online banking.
What to do with money still in the account
Before you close the account, you need to move any money out. You have two options: transfer it to another account you own, or withdraw it as cash.
To transfer online, log into your Barclays account and use the "Send money" or "Transfer" option. You can transfer to another Barclays account you hold, or to an account at a different bank. If you are transferring to a different bank, use the recipient's sort code and account number. The transfer usually arrives within one to two working days, though some banks take longer. To withdraw cash, visit a Barclays branch or use an ATM. If the balance is large, it is safer to transfer it electronically rather than withdraw large amounts of cash. Once the account balance reaches zero, you can proceed with closing the account online.
When you must close by phone or in branch
Some Barclays savings accounts cannot be closed online. These include certain fixed-rate bonds, notice accounts that still have an active notice period, and some older account types. If you do not see a close account option in your app or online banking after logging in, your account falls into this category.
To close by phone, call Barclays on 0345 600 1556. The line is open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 10am to 5pm. Have your account number and sort code ready. Barclays will ask you to confirm your identity and will walk you through the closure process. If you have money in the account, they can arrange a transfer or send you a cheque. You can also visit any Barclays branch in person. Bring a form of ID and your account details. Staff will close the account and handle any remaining balance while you wait.
What happens after you close the account
Once your account is closed, you cannot use it to deposit or withdraw money. Any standing orders or direct debits linked to that account will stop working, so check that you have not set up any payments to come from that account. If you have, you will need to update those payments to come from a different account.
Barclays will not send you a formal closure letter unless you ask for one. If you need proof that the account is closed — for example, for tax or legal reasons — you can request a closure letter by phoning Barclays or visiting a branch. Keep your closure confirmation number for your records. Closing a savings account does not affect your credit score or credit file. It is a normal banking action and will not show up on your credit history.
If you change your mind after closing
If you close your account and then change your mind within a short time, phone Barclays when ready. Some accounts can be reopened if you contact them quickly — usually within a few days. However, Barclays is not obliged to reopen an account, and the longer you wait, the less likely they are to do so.
If the account cannot be reopened, you can open a new savings account instead. The process for opening a new account is straightforward and can often be done online through the Barclays app or website, depending on the account type you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will closing my Barclays savings account affect my credit score?
No. Closing a savings account is a routine banking action and does not appear on your credit file. Your credit score is based on borrowing and repayment history, not on which accounts you hold or close.
What if I have a joint savings account with someone else?
Both account holders must agree to close a joint account. You cannot close it alone. Contact Barclays by phone or visit a branch with the other account holder to close it together.
Can I close my account if I have an overdraft or owe money?
No. You must settle any debt or overdraft before closing the account. Once the balance is cleared, you can proceed with closing online or by phone.
How long does it take to close a Barclays savings account?
If you close online, the account closes when ready, though it may take a few days to disappear from your app. If you close by phone or in branch, it is when ready. Any transfers of remaining money may take one to two working days to reach another bank.
What if I never receive a closure confirmation?
If you closed online, take a screenshot of the confirmation screen you saw. If you closed by phone, note the date and time you called and the name of the person who helped you. If you need written proof later, phone Barclays and they can provide a closure letter.