Life throws us curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs include a need to revisit financial accounts we thought were long behind us. Perhaps you closed an Ally Bank account years ago and now realize you need it, or maybe it became dormant due to inactivity. Whatever the reason, if you're wondering how to reopen an Ally Bank account, you've come to the right place!
Are you ready to dive back into the world of Ally Bank? Let's get your account back on track!
Reopening a bank account isn't always as simple as flipping a switch, especially with online-only banks like Ally. Their procedures are designed for security and efficiency. This lengthy, step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, covering various scenarios and providing essential tips to make it as smooth as possible.
Understanding Account Status: Closed vs. Dormant
Before we begin, it's crucial to understand the difference between a "closed" account and a "dormant" account, as the reopening process can vary significantly.
Dormant Account: An account becomes dormant when there's no customer-initiated activity (like deposits, withdrawals, or transfers) for a prolonged period, typically 12 to 24 months, depending on the bank's policy and state regulations. While dormant, the funds are still yours, but the bank may restrict transactions to protect your assets. Eventually, dormant accounts can be subject to "escheatment," where the funds are turned over to the state as unclaimed property.
Closed Account: A closed account means you or the bank initiated the closure, and the account is no longer active. Funds, if any, would have been disbursed at the time of closure. Reopening a truly closed account is often more akin to opening a new account, although your past customer relationship might make the process slightly easier.
Ally Bank typically has a policy of requiring at least one activity within an 18-month period to keep an account active. If your account has been inactive for longer than that, it might be classified as dormant.
Step 1: Determine Your Account Status and Gather Information
This is your very first, crucial step. Without knowing the exact status of your account, you can't proceed effectively.
Sub-heading 1.1: Check Your Records
Look for any old statements, emails, or correspondence from Ally Bank. Did you receive any notices about inactivity or impending account closure? These can provide clues.
Do you remember specifically closing the account, or did it just fall out of use? This memory can be key.
Sub-heading 1.2: Attempt to Log In to Your Ally Online Account
Go to the Ally Bank website (
www.ally.com If you've forgotten your username or password, use the "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password" links. Ally will guide you through the recovery process, which usually involves verifying your identity through security questions or a one-time code sent to your registered phone number or email.
What happens when you try to log in?
Success! You're in! If you can log in, your account is likely active or dormant but still accessible. You might see a message indicating it's dormant or restricted. This is a good sign!
Login Issues / Account Locked: If you can't log in after multiple attempts or your account is locked, it could be due to inactivity or incorrect credentials. Don't panic! This is where contacting customer service becomes vital.
"Account Not Found" or "Account Closed": This suggests the account was officially closed.
Sub-heading 1.3: Prepare Essential Personal Information
Regardless of your account's status, you will likely need to verify your identity. Gather the following information:
Full Legal Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number (SSN) or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
Current U.S. Residential Street Address (Ally does not open accounts for non-resident aliens and requires a U.S. address.)
Previous addresses (if you've moved since opening the account)
Government-issued ID (Driver's License, State ID, Passport) details, including ID number and expiration date.
Original phone number and email address associated with the account.
Any old Ally account numbers if you have them.
Step 2: Contact Ally Bank Customer Service
This is often the most direct and effective way to initiate the reopening process, especially if you couldn't log in online.
Sub-heading 2.1: Call Ally Bank Directly
Ally Bank Customer Service Number: Call 1-877-247-2559. They are available 24/7.
Be Patient: You might experience a waiting time, especially during peak hours. Have your gathered information ready.
Clearly state your purpose: When you connect with a representative, clearly explain that you want to inquire about reopening a previous Ally Bank account, or reactivating a dormant one.
Identity Verification: The representative will ask you a series of security questions to verify your identity. Be prepared to answer accurately.
Sub-heading 2.2: Discuss Your Account Status
For Dormant Accounts: If your account is dormant, the representative will guide you through the reactivation process. This usually involves:
Verifying your identity thoroughly.
Confirming your current contact information.
Potentially requiring a small deposit or transaction to "re-activate" it. A simple internal transfer (if you have another Ally account) or a small external deposit can often suffice. Some users have reported that calling customer service and successfully authenticating the account was enough to get it reactivated.
Important Note: If your dormant account is nearing or has reached the escheatment stage, the process might be more complex, involving your state's unclaimed property division. Ally will be able to advise you on this.
For Closed Accounts: If your account was truly closed, the representative will inform you that it cannot be "reopened" in the traditional sense. Instead, they will likely guide you through the process of opening a new account. However, since you were a previous customer, the initial identity verification might be quicker, as they'll have your past information on file.
Step 3: The Reopening/Reactivation Process (Based on Account Status)
The path forward depends heavily on whether your account is dormant or completely closed.
Sub-heading 3.1: Reopening a Dormant Ally Bank Account
Identity Verification is Key: As mentioned, the customer service representative will verify your identity. This is paramount for security.
Update Contact Information: Ensure Ally has your most current phone number, email address, and physical address. This is crucial for future communication and security codes.
Initiate a Transaction: Often, to officially "wake up" a dormant account, Ally will require you to initiate a transaction. This could be:
Making a deposit: You can use Ally eCheck Deposit℠, online transfers from another bank, or direct deposit.
Initiating a small withdrawal or transfer: If funds are already in the account, moving a small amount can trigger reactivation.
Changing your password: Some users have reported that simply changing their password can help prevent dormancy or reactivate a recently dormant account.
Confirmation: Once the identity is verified and the necessary action taken, the representative should confirm that your account is now active. They might advise you to log in and confirm.
Keep an eye out for security alerts or confirmations via email or text.
Sub-heading 3.2: Opening a New Ally Bank Account (if your old one was closed)
If your previous Ally account was officially closed, you'll need to go through the new account opening process.
Online Application: You can apply online at
www.ally.com Personal Information: You'll be prompted to enter all your personal information, similar to what you gathered in Step 1.
Funding Your New Account: Ally has no minimum deposit to open an account. You can fund your new account through:
Online transfers from another bank.
Ally eCheck Deposit℠ (mobile check deposit).
Direct Deposit.
Wire transfers or mail.
Set Up Login Credentials: If you don't have existing Ally login credentials, you'll set up a username and password. If you do, you'll link the new account to your existing login.
Receive Confirmation: You'll receive an email once your application is approved.
Remember: Even if your old account was closed, Ally generally makes opening a new one quite straightforward for former customers as they'll still have your basic information on file.
Step 4: Confirm Reactivation and Set Up Activity Reminders
Once Ally confirms your account is active, take these steps.
Sub-heading 4.1: Verify Online Access
Log in to your Ally online account and mobile app. Ensure you can access all features, view balances, and initiate transactions.
Test a small transaction (e.g., transfer $1 to an external account or another Ally account) to confirm full functionality.
Sub-heading 4.2: Set Up Regular Activity or Reminders
To prevent your account from becoming dormant again, establish a regular pattern of activity. Even a small, recurring internal transfer (e.g., $1 from your spending to savings account monthly) can keep it active.
Set calendar reminders for yourself to log in or make a small transaction every few months if you don't plan to use the account regularly. Ally suggests at least one activity within an 18-month period.
Important Considerations and Tips:
Patience is a Virtue: The process might take a bit of time, especially if the account has been dormant for a very long time or if there are extensive identity verification checks required.
Document Everything: Keep a record of who you spoke with at Ally, the date and time of the call, and any reference numbers provided. This is helpful if you need to follow up.
Security Measures: Be prepared for robust identity verification. Ally, as an online-only bank, relies heavily on these procedures to protect your funds. Do not share your personal information with anyone who calls you unsolicited claiming to be from Ally. Always initiate the contact.
Funds in Dormant Accounts: If there were funds in your dormant account, these should reappear once the account is reactivated. If not, discuss this immediately with the representative.
Escheatment: If your funds have already been escheated to your state's unclaimed property division, Ally Bank can provide you with the necessary information to claim your funds from the state. This process varies by state.
Review Account Terms: Before fully utilizing a reactivated or new account, take a moment to review Ally's current terms and conditions, interest rates, and any associated fees (though Ally is known for having very few fees).
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 common questions related to reopening Ally Bank accounts, with quick answers:
How to check if my Ally Bank account is dormant?
The easiest way is to try logging into your online account or calling Ally Bank customer service at 1-877-247-2559. They can tell you its status immediately.
How to reactivate a dormant Ally Bank account online?
You generally cannot reactivate a dormant account solely online. You'll likely need to speak with customer service to verify your identity and confirm reactivation, though a login attempt or small transaction after the fact can help.
How to transfer money to a dormant Ally Bank account to reactivate it?
Once you've spoken with Ally customer service and verified your identity, they may suggest making a deposit. You can do this via Ally eCheck Deposit℠, online transfer from another bank, or direct deposit.
How to find my old Ally Bank account number?
If you have old statements or emails from Ally, your account number might be listed there. If not, Ally Bank customer service (1-877-247-2559) can help you retrieve it after verifying your identity.
How to prevent my Ally Bank account from becoming dormant again?
Set up a small, recurring transfer (e.g., $1 monthly) between your Ally accounts or to/from an external account. Alternatively, make it a habit to log in or make a transaction every few months.
How to contact Ally Bank customer service for account issues?
Call Ally Bank's customer service at 1-877-247-2559. They are available 24/7 to assist with account inquiries.
How to know if my Ally Bank account was completely closed or just dormant?
Attempt to log in online. If it says "account not found" or "account closed," it was likely completely closed. If you can log in but see restrictions or are prompted for activity, it's likely dormant. Customer service can confirm definitively.
How to open a new Ally Bank account if my old one was closed?
Visit
How to recover funds from an escheated Ally Bank account?
If your funds have been turned over to your state's unclaimed property division, Ally Bank can provide you with information on how to contact your state's unclaimed property office to initiate a claim.
How to update my personal information for a dormant Ally Bank account?
When speaking with Ally customer service to reactivate your account, they will guide you through the process of updating your address, phone number, and email to ensure their records are current.
