Closing a bank account might seem daunting, but with a bit of planning, it can be a smooth process. If you're looking to close your Truist account online, you've come to the right place. While a full, end-to-end online closure might not be directly available for all account types, there are definitely steps you can take online to prepare and initiate the process. Let's break it down!
How to Close Your Truist Account Online (or as close as you can get!)
Thinking of making a change? Whether you're moving, consolidating finances, or simply found a better fit elsewhere, closing a bank account requires a systematic approach to ensure no loose ends are left behind. While Truist, like many traditional banks, often prefers a direct conversation or in-branch visit for final account closure to ensure security and proper handling of funds, you can significantly prepare for it online.
Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
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How Can I Close My Truist Account Online |
Step 1: Are You Sure? Let's Confirm Your Reason for Closing!
Before diving into the mechanics, let's take a moment. Why are you considering closing your Truist account? Understanding your reasons will help ensure you're making the best decision. For example:
- High Fees? Perhaps there's another Truist account type that better suits your needs and avoids those pesky fees. Explore their various checking and savings options online.
- Moving? Truist has a wide branch network, but if you're relocating far away, closing might be the right choice.
- Consolidating Accounts? Streamlining your finances is a great goal!
- Unhappy with Service? While closing might be the ultimate step, consider reaching out to Truist customer service first to see if your issues can be resolved.
Taking a moment to reflect on your motivation can save you time and effort in the long run.
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Step 2: Paving the Way – Preparing Your Truist Account Online
This is where the power of online banking truly shines in the account closure process. While you might not click a "Close Account" button, you can meticulously prepare your account to make the final step as quick and painless as possible.
Sub-heading 2.1: Transferring Funds Out
This is perhaps the most critical online step. You cannot close an account with a balance, whether positive or negative.
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- Internal Transfers: If you have another Truist account, you can easily transfer funds between your accounts online.
- Log in to your Truist Online Banking portal.
- Navigate to the "Transfers" or "Move Money" section.
- Select the Truist account you wish to close as the "From" account and your other Truist account as the "To" account.
- Enter the amount and confirm the transfer.
- External Transfers: If you're moving your money to a different bank, you'll need to set up an external transfer.
- In your Truist Online Banking, look for options like "Add External Account" or "Link External Accounts."
- You'll typically need the routing number and account number of your external bank account.
- Once linked (this might involve a small trial deposit verification process that takes a few days), you can initiate transfers to move your funds.
- Be sure to leave a small amount in the account initially (e.g., $5-$10) to cover any lingering, unexpected debits or fees that might post before the final closure. You can transfer this small remainder out later or request a check for it.
Sub-heading 2.2: Updating Direct Deposits
Don't let your next paycheck go into a closed account!
- Identify all direct deposits linked to your Truist account (e.g., salary, government benefits, investment dividends).
- Online Action: Log in to the respective portals (your employer's HR system, government agency websites, etc.) and update your direct deposit information to your new bank account.
- Important Note: Do this well in advance of your desired closure date, as it can take one or two pay cycles for the change to fully process.
Sub-heading 2.3: Canceling Automatic Payments and Subscriptions
Automated payments can cause significant headaches if they attempt to debit a closed account.
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- Review your Truist account statements for the last 6-12 months (accessible online!) to identify all recurring payments. Look for:
- Utility bills (electricity, water, internet)
- Loan payments (mortgage, car, student)
- Credit card payments
- Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify)
- Gym memberships
- Any other subscriptions or scheduled transfers.
- Online Action: Log in to each service provider's website or app and update your payment method to your new bank account or a different form of payment (e.g., a credit card).
- Consider a "Stop Payment Order": While generally incurring fees, if you're worried about a specific automatic payment hitting your account after you've initiated closure, you can call Truist to place a stop payment order. However, it's always better to update the payment information directly with the merchant.
Sub-heading 2.4: Downloading Statements and Transaction History
You never know when you might need past financial records.
- Online Action: Before closing, log into your Truist Online Banking and download digital copies of at least the past year's statements. Many banks recommend keeping records for 5-7 years for tax or other purposes.
- Save them in a secure, easily accessible location on your computer or cloud storage.
Step 3: The Final (Offline) Steps – Connecting with Truist
While many preparatory steps can be done online, the actual closure of a Truist account typically requires a direct interaction for security and verification purposes.
Sub-heading 3.1: Contacting Truist Customer Service
This is generally the most straightforward way to initiate the closure.
- Phone Call: Call Truist's customer service at 844-4TRUIST (844-487-8478). Their hours are generally Monday-Friday, 8 am to 8 pm ET, and Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm ET. Be prepared for verification questions.
- Tell the representative you wish to close your account.
- They will guide you through any remaining steps, confirm your balance (which should ideally be zero or a small amount), and ask for your reason for closing (optional, but they might ask for feedback).
- If a small balance remains, they can often issue a check to you for the remaining funds.
- In-Branch Visit: If you prefer face-to-face interaction or have complex account structures, visiting a Truist branch is always an option.
- Use the Truist website's branch locator to find the nearest branch.
- Bring a valid photo ID and your account information.
Sub-heading 3.2: Confirming Account Status
- Once you've spoken with a representative or visited a branch, request written confirmation of the account closure. This can be an email or a physical letter. This documentation is crucial for your records and to resolve any potential future discrepancies.
- Monitor your account online for a few days to ensure no unexpected transactions occur and that the account status changes to "closed."
Sub-heading 3.3: Destroying Associated Items
- Once the account is officially closed and you have confirmation, safely destroy any debit cards, credit cards, or unused checks associated with the account. Shred them to prevent fraudulent use.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
How to Check My Truist Account Balance Online?
- Quick Answer: Log in to your Truist Online Banking or the Truist Mobile App. Your account balances will typically be displayed on the main dashboard or "Accounts" section.
How to Transfer Money from Truist to Another Bank Online?
- Quick Answer: Log in to Truist Online Banking, go to the "Transfers" or "Move Money" section, and select "Add External Account" to link your other bank account. Once linked and verified, you can initiate transfers.
How to Find My Truist Account Number and Routing Number Online?
- Quick Answer: In Truist Online Banking, select the specific account, then look for "Account Details" or "View Account Details." Your routing number (first set of numbers on a check) and account number will be listed there.
How to Stop Automatic Payments from My Truist Account Online?
- Quick Answer: While you can't directly stop payments from Truist's side for third-party services online, you must contact the merchant or service provider directly (online through their portal or by phone) to update your payment method or cancel the recurring payment.
How to Download Truist Bank Statements Online?
- Quick Answer: Log in to Truist Online Banking, navigate to the "Accounts" section, select the account, and look for "Statements" or "eStatements." You can typically download PDF versions of your past statements.
How to Avoid Fees When Closing a Truist Account?
- Quick Answer: Ensure your account balance is positive and not overdrawn. Some banks may charge a fee if you close an account shortly after opening it (e.g., within 90-180 days), so check your account agreement for any early closure fees.
How to Confirm My Truist Account is Fully Closed?
- Quick Answer: Request a written (email or physical letter) confirmation from Truist customer service or the branch once the closure process is complete. You can also try logging into your online banking; if the account is truly closed, it should no longer appear or you'll receive an error message.
How to Update Direct Deposit Information for My Paycheck?
- Quick Answer: Contact your employer's HR or payroll department. They will provide you with the necessary forms or a link to their online portal to update your direct deposit information with your new bank account and routing number.
How to Deal with Remaining Funds in My Truist Account After Closure Request?
- Quick Answer: Truist will typically send you a check for any remaining positive balance in the account. Ensure your mailing address on file with Truist is current.
How to Reopen a Truist Account After Closing It?
- Quick Answer: Once an account is formally closed, it cannot usually be reopened. You would need to apply for a new account with Truist, going through the standard application process.