Closing a Chase checking account is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps in the correct order. To close your Chase checking account, you need to redirect any automatic payments or deposits, clear the balance, download your statements, and then contact Chase to request closure — either by phone, in person at a branch, or by written request. Taking these steps in sequence helps you avoid overdrafts, returned payments, or lost transaction history after the account closes. This guide walks you through the full process.
Before You Close: Steps to Take First
Preparation before initiating the account closure reduces the risk of disruptions to your finances. Start by identifying all automatic payments, direct deposits, and recurring transfers linked to your Chase account. Common recurring items include payroll direct deposit, utility autopay, subscription services, loan payments, and investment account transfers. Failing to update these before closing can result in missed payments, returned transactions, and potential late fees from the payee.
Open a new account at your chosen institution and redirect all direct deposits and automatic payments to the new account. Most banks require at least one to two billing cycles before a new account's routing and account information is fully updated with all payees. Allowing adequate time for these updates to take effect before closing your Chase account is an important buffer against payment failures.
Clear Your Balance and Outstanding Transactions
Before closing the account, ensure all outstanding checks, debit card transactions, and ACH transfers have fully cleared your Chase account. A check that was written but not yet cashed, or an ACH transaction that has not yet posted, can create a negative balance after your account is closed — potentially resulting in overdraft fees or returned-item fees charged to you or your payee. Reviewing your recent transaction history carefully and waiting a few business days to confirm all items have settled is the safest approach.
Transfer your remaining balance to your new account before initiating the closure. If you leave a small balance, Chase will typically issue a check for the remaining amount after the account is closed, though processing time may vary. Alternatively, you can withdraw the remaining balance in cash at a Chase branch or ATM at the time of closure.
Download Your Account Statements
Chase's online banking portal allows you to access and download up to seven years of account statements in PDF format, though access typically ends once the account is closed. Before closing, download all statements you may need for tax documentation, dispute resolution, or financial record-keeping purposes. The IRS recommends keeping financial records that support your tax return for at least three years, and up to seven years in some circumstances.
Save downloaded statements to a secure, backed-up location — an encrypted external drive or a reputable cloud storage service. Do not rely solely on Chase's online portal for long-term access, as statement availability after account closure is not guaranteed. Having your own copies ensures you can respond to any future audits or financial inquiries.
How to Actually Close the Account
You have several options for submitting your Chase account closure request. Calling Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or on Chase's official website is typically the fastest method — a representative can process the closure after verifying your identity. Visiting a Chase branch in person is another option and may be preferred if you want to withdraw the remaining balance in cash at the same time.
Chase may also accept a written closure request by certified mail, which provides a paper record of your request and the date it was sent. Whichever method you choose, confirm the account closure in writing — ask for a closure confirmation number or written confirmation by email or mail. Federal consumer protection law gives you specific rights regarding your bank accounts, and the CFPB provides resources if you encounter difficulty closing an account.
Credit Score Considerations
Closing a checking account does not directly affect your credit score because checking accounts are not included in your credit report. Unlike credit card accounts, checking account closures do not affect your credit utilization ratio or the length of your credit history. Your credit score should not change as a result of closing your Chase checking account alone.
However, if you have a Chase credit card linked to your checking account for overdraft protection, review whether the closure affects the linked credit card terms. Closing a credit card account — even one linked to a closed checking account — can affect your credit utilization and may modestly impact your credit score. Keeping the credit card account open separately if you use it is generally advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close a Chase checking account online?
As of 2026, Chase does not offer a self-service online account closure option through its website or mobile app — you must close the account by calling Chase customer service, visiting a branch in person, or submitting a written request. Calling is typically the fastest method, as a representative can verify your identity and process the request during the same call.
Is there a fee to close a Chase checking account?
Chase does not typically charge a fee to close a standard checking account, though you should review your account agreement for any specific terms. Some business accounts or specialty products may have different terms. Closing an account shortly after opening it — sometimes within 90 days — may trigger a fee at some institutions, so checking your account terms is advisable if your account is relatively new.
What happens to automatic payments after I close my Chase account?
Automatic payments linked to a closed Chase account will be returned unpaid after the account closes, which may result in returned payment fees from the payee and potential late fees. Updating all automatic payment and direct deposit information to your new account before closing is the most important preparatory step. Allow at least one to two billing cycles for all updates to take effect.
Will closing my Chase account affect my credit score?
Closing a checking account does not directly affect your credit score because checking accounts are not reported to credit bureaus and are not included in your credit file. Your credit utilization ratio and credit history length — the factors most likely to change when a financial account is closed — are affected only by credit accounts such as credit cards and loans, not deposit accounts.
Sources & References
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Closing a Bank Account — https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/can-i-close-my-bank-account-en-77/
- Chase — Online Account Services — https://www.chase.com/digital/resources/privacy-security
- IRS — How Long Should I Keep Records? — https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Credit Reports and Scores — https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/credit-reports-and-scores/
Last updated: April 28, 2026