How Can I Close My Wells Fargo Account

People are currently reading this guide.

You've decided to part ways with your Wells Fargo account. Perhaps you're moving, found a better banking option, or simply want to consolidate your finances. Whatever your reason, closing a bank account requires a systematic approach to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any unexpected fees or complications. This guide will walk you through each crucial step to successfully close your Wells Fargo account.

Ready to say goodbye to your Wells Fargo account? Let's get started!

Step 1: Prepare for Closure - The Essential Pre-Checks

Before you even think about contacting Wells Fargo, it's vital to lay the groundwork. This preparation phase is crucial to prevent headaches down the line.

Sub-heading: Open a New Account (If You Haven't Already)

This is arguably the most important initial step. You don't want to be left without a banking home! Open a new checking and/or savings account with a different financial institution and ensure it's fully operational before proceeding. Transferring funds will be much easier if you have a destination ready.

Sub-heading: Update All Automatic Payments and Direct Deposits

This is where many people run into issues. Take a deep dive into your financial statements (both past and recent) to identify every single automatic payment, subscription, and direct deposit linked to your Wells Fargo account. This includes:

  • Bill payments: Utilities, rent/mortgage, loan payments, credit card bills.

  • Subscriptions: Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify), gym memberships, software subscriptions.

  • Direct Deposits: Your salary, government benefits, or any other regular incoming funds.

  • Pro-Tip: Make a comprehensive list of all these items, including the company name, amount, and payment date. Then, contact each provider to update your banking information to your new account. Give yourself ample time for these changes to take effect, ideally at least 1-2 billing cycles before your target closure date.

Sub-heading: Zero Out Your Balance (or Have a Positive Balance)

Wells Fargo will not allow you to close an account with a negative balance. Ensure your account balance is either zero or a positive amount. If you have any funds remaining, you'll need to transfer them out.

  • For Checking Accounts: You can use online transfers to your new account, initiate an ACH transfer, or withdraw cash. Be aware that large cash withdrawals might require advance notice to the branch.
  • For Savings Accounts: Similar to checking, you can transfer funds electronically.
  • For Credit Cards: Pay off your entire outstanding balance to $0. Do not make any new charges on the card you intend to close.

Sub-heading: Clear All Pending Transactions

Any outstanding checks, pending deposits, or other transactions must clear your account before you can close it. Wait until all activities have fully posted. This can sometimes take a few business days, so be patient.

Sub-heading: Redeem Any Rewards Points (If Applicable)

If you're closing a Wells Fargo credit card, be sure to redeem any accumulated rewards points (cash back, travel points, etc.) before closure. Often, points are forfeited once the account is closed.

Step 2: Choose Your Closure Method - How to Contact Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo offers a few ways to close your account. While online closure isn't directly available, you have other convenient options.

Sub-heading: Option 1: In-Person at a Wells Fargo Branch (Recommended for Immediate Closure)

Visiting a branch is often the quickest and most straightforward way to close your account, especially if you want immediate confirmation and the ability to handle any last-minute issues.

  • What to Bring:
    • Valid Photo ID: Driver's license, passport, or state ID.
    • Social Security Number.
    • Your Wells Fargo Account Number(s): Have your debit card, checks, or account statements handy.
    • Any joint account holders should ideally be present with their IDs if it's a joint account.
  • What to Do:
    • Explain to the banker that you wish to close your account(s).
    • They will verify your identity and pull up your account information.
    • If there's a remaining positive balance, you can request a cashier's check, an electronic transfer to your new bank, or a cash withdrawal.
    • Sign any necessary forms to finalize the closure.
    • Request a confirmation of account closure in writing.

Sub-heading: Option 2: By Phone (Convenient if You Can't Visit a Branch)

Closing your account over the phone is a good alternative if a branch visit isn't feasible.

  • Wells Fargo General Banking Number: 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557). This line is typically available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • What to Expect:
    • Be prepared to go through security verification, which may include providing personal information, answering security questions, or verifying recent transactions.
    • Clearly state that you wish to close your account.
    • The representative will guide you through the process, confirm your balance, and arrange for the transfer or disbursement of any remaining funds.
    • Ask for a confirmation number or email confirmation of the closure.

Sub-heading: Option 3: By Mail (For Non-Urgent Closures, Especially from Outside the U.S.)

While less common for immediate closure, you can close your account by mail, particularly if you are outside the U.S. or prefer a written record.

  • Form Required: You'll need to complete the "Account Closure or Partial Withdrawal Request" form (often available as a PDF on the Wells Fargo website).
  • What to Include:
    • Completed and signed form.
    • Your account number(s).
    • Clear instructions for how you wish to receive any remaining funds (e.g., check mailed to a forwarding address, wire transfer details).
    • Notarization may be required, especially for significant sums or if you're outside the U.S.
  • Mailing Address for Account Closures:
    • Regular Mail: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Exception Payments Account Closures MAC N9160-01X P.O. Box 9102 Minneapolis, MN 55480-9102
    • Overnight Courier: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Exception Payments Account Closures MAC N9160-01X 1801 Park View Dr 1st Fl. Shoreview, MN 55126-5030
  • Be aware that processing by mail may take several business days.

Step 3: Confirm and Monitor - The Final Steps

Once you've initiated the closure, your job isn't quite done.

Sub-heading: Request Written Confirmation of Closure

No matter which method you choose, always request written confirmation that your account has been successfully closed. This can be an email confirmation, a letter, or a printout if you're at a branch. This document is your proof that the account is no longer active and that you're no longer responsible for it.

Sub-heading: Destroy Old Debit Cards and Checks

Once confirmed closed, cut up your Wells Fargo debit card and dispose of any unused checks securely. This prevents unauthorized use.

Sub-heading: Monitor Your New Account

For the next few weeks and months, diligently monitor your new bank account to ensure all direct deposits and automatic payments have successfully transitioned. It's not uncommon for one or two to slip through the cracks initially. If you find any recurring charges still attempting to draw from your closed Wells Fargo account, contact the merchant immediately to update their records.

Related FAQ Questions

Here are 10 common questions related to closing a Wells Fargo account, with quick answers:

  1. How to check my Wells Fargo account balance before closing? You can check your balance via Wells Fargo Online Banking, the Wells Fargo Mobile App, by calling customer service (1-800-TO-WELLS), or by visiting an ATM or branch.

  2. How to transfer money out of my Wells Fargo account before closing? You can transfer funds electronically via online banking (bank-to-bank transfers), initiate an ACH transfer from your new bank, or withdraw cash/request a cashier's check at a branch.

  3. How to stop recurring payments linked to my Wells Fargo account? You need to contact each merchant or service provider directly to update your payment information to your new bank account. For pre-authorized ACH payments, you may be able to stop them through Wells Fargo Online Banking.

  4. How to find my Wells Fargo account number? Your account number can be found on your checks, bank statements, or by logging into Wells Fargo Online Banking or the mobile app. You can also call customer service.

  5. How to avoid fees when closing my Wells Fargo account? Ensure your account has a zero or positive balance and that all pending transactions have cleared. Wells Fargo typically doesn't charge a fee to close a checking or savings account, but leaving a negative balance can incur overdraft fees.

  6. How to close a Wells Fargo credit card account? Pay off the entire balance to $0, redeem any rewards points, and then contact customer service at 1-800-869-3557 or visit a branch to request closure.

  7. How to get a confirmation of account closure from Wells Fargo? When closing in person or by phone, explicitly request a written confirmation (email or physical letter). For mail-in closures, keep a copy of your form and consider sending it with delivery confirmation.

  8. How to handle a negative balance if I want to close my Wells Fargo account? You must bring your account balance to zero or positive before Wells Fargo will allow you to close it. Deposit funds to cover the negative balance.

  9. How to close a joint Wells Fargo account? Ideally, both joint account holders should be present with their IDs at a branch. If one owner cannot be present, you might need specific authorization or a new account may need to be opened if an owner is to be removed and doesn't agree to be removed from the original account. It's best to call Wells Fargo customer service for specific guidance on joint accounts.

  10. How to re-open a Wells Fargo account after closing it? Once an account is formally closed, you generally cannot "re-open" it. You would need to apply for and open a new Wells Fargo account if you decide to bank with them again in the future.

7190240602233315976

You have our undying gratitude for your visit!