How to Close Your Truist Bank Account: A Comprehensive, Step-by-Step Guide
Hey there! Are you ready to streamline your finances and bid farewell to your Truist account? Whether you're moving, consolidating, or simply seeking a better banking experience, closing an account requires a systematic approach to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any unexpected hitches. This guide will walk you through every crucial step, making the process as straightforward as possible. Let's get started!
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| How To Delete Truist Account |
Step 1: The Crucial Pre-Closure Checklist – Don't Skip This!
Before you even think about calling Truist or stepping into a branch, it's absolutely vital to prepare. Rushing this step can lead to bounced payments, missed deposits, and a whole lot of unnecessary headaches.
Sub-heading: Assess Your Account Activity
- Identify all linked services: Think about every single thing connected to your Truist account. This includes:
- Direct Deposits: Your paycheck, government benefits, tax refunds, etc.
- Automatic Payments/Bill Pay: Utility bills, loan payments, subscription services (Netflix, Spotify, gym memberships), insurance premiums, credit card bills, rent/mortgage payments.
- External Transfers: Any recurring transfers to or from other bank accounts (e.g., to a savings account at another institution).
- Peer-to-Peer Payment Services: Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, if linked to your Truist account.
- Investment Accounts: If your investment platform uses your Truist account for transfers.
- Review recent transactions: Go through your last few statements (at least 3-6 months) to catch any recurring transactions you might have forgotten. It's better to be overly thorough here than to miss something crucial.
- Check for pending transactions: Ensure all checks you've written have cleared and any recent deposits have fully posted. You cannot close an account with pending transactions.
Sub-heading: Open a New Account (If You Haven't Already)
- A New Home for Your Funds: You'll need somewhere to transfer your remaining Truist balance and redirect your direct deposits and automatic payments. Open a new checking or savings account with a different financial institution before you initiate the closure process with Truist.
- Consider Your Needs: When choosing a new bank, consider factors like fees, ATM access, interest rates, online banking features, and customer service.
Sub-heading: Transfer/Withdraw All Funds
- Zero Balance is Key: Your Truist account must have a $0 balance before it can be officially closed.
- Transfer Options:
- Online Transfer: The easiest method is often to initiate a transfer from your Truist account to your new bank account via online banking.
- Wire Transfer: For very large sums, a wire transfer might be an option, but be aware of potential fees.
- Cash Withdrawal: You can withdraw your remaining balance in cash at a Truist branch, though this is less secure for larger amounts.
- Official Check/Cashier's Check: Truist might be able to issue an official check for your remaining balance.
- Leave a Small Buffer (Optional but Recommended): Sometimes, a small amount (like $10-$20) is left in the account initially to cover any unforeseen minor charges that might post after you think the account is empty (though this is less common if you've diligently followed the steps above). Once you receive confirmation of closure, ensure this small amount is also zeroed out.
Step 2: Update All Linked Services – Don't Get Caught Off Guard!
This is arguably the most critical step to avoid financial disruption. Every service identified in Step 1 needs to be updated with your new bank account information.
Sub-heading: Redirect Direct Deposits
- Employer: Contact your HR or payroll department to update your direct deposit information. They usually have a form or an online portal for this.
- Government Benefits: If you receive Social Security, VA benefits, or other government payments, you'll need to update your banking information through the relevant agency.
- Other Income Sources: Any other sources of income that directly deposit into your Truist account must be updated.
Sub-heading: Change Automatic Payments & Bill Pay
- Merchants/Service Providers: Log into each service (utility companies, streaming services, credit card companies, loan providers) and manually change your payment method to your new bank account.
- Truist Bill Pay (if applicable): If you use Truist's Bill Pay service, ensure all scheduled payments are either cancelled or redirected to your new bank account's bill pay system.
- Auto-Debit Authorizations: If you've given companies permission to directly debit your account, you'll need to update them.
Sub-heading: Unlink Peer-to-Peer Payment Services
- Go into your settings for Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, etc., and remove your Truist account. Add your new bank account as your primary funding source.
Step 3: Initiate the Account Closure with Truist
Once you've completed all the preparatory steps, you're ready to contact Truist. You generally have a few options:
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
Option A: In-Person at a Truist Branch (Recommended for Simplicity and Confirmation)
- Visit Your Local Branch: This is often the most straightforward and secure way to close your account. You can speak directly with a representative, get immediate confirmation, and handle any unforeseen issues on the spot.
- What to Bring:
- Valid Photo ID: Driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID.
- Your Truist Debit Card(s) and Unused Checks: They will likely ask to destroy these to prevent future use.
- Account Number: While your ID should suffice, having your account number handy can speed things up.
- Request Closure: Inform the teller or banker that you wish to close your account. They will guide you through any necessary paperwork.
- Get Written Confirmation: This is crucial! Request a written confirmation or a letter stating that your account has been closed and the effective date. Keep this for your records.
Option B: By Phone (Convenient, but Get Details in Writing)
- Call Truist Customer Service: You can reach Truist customer service at 1-844-4TRUIST (1-844-487-8478). Their hours are typically Monday-Friday, 8 am to 8 pm ET, and Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm ET.
- Be Prepared to Verify: You'll need to go through security questions to verify your identity. Have your account number and personal information ready.
- State Your Intent Clearly: Inform them you wish to close your account.
- Clarify Fund Transfer: Discuss how any remaining funds will be disbursed (e.g., check mailed to you, transfer to another account if possible over the phone).
- Request Confirmation: Crucially, ask them to send you written confirmation of the account closure via mail or email. Note down the date and time of your call, the name of the representative you spoke with, and any reference numbers provided.
Option C: Potentially Online (Less Common for Full Closure)
- While some banks allow limited account management online, full account closure often requires a phone call or in-person visit to ensure all outstanding matters are resolved and identity is thoroughly verified. Truist's online banking focuses more on managing existing accounts rather than closing them. It's always best to check their official website or call customer service to confirm if an online closure option is available for your specific account type and circumstances.
Step 4: Secure Your Records and Monitor Your Old Account
Even after you've closed the account, a few final steps are essential for peace of mind.
Sub-heading: Securely Dispose of Banking Materials
- Shred Old Debit Cards and Checks: Once your account is officially closed and you have confirmation, physically destroy any remaining debit cards and unused checks. Shredding is the safest method to prevent identity theft.
- Save Confirmation: Keep the written confirmation of account closure in a safe place with your other important financial documents.
Sub-heading: Monitor for Any Unexpected Activity
- Brief Monitoring Period: For a few weeks after closure, keep an eye on your new bank account for any unexpected transfers or attempts to debit your old Truist account. While unlikely if you've followed all the steps, it's a good practice.
- Check Credit Report (Optional but Recommended): Periodically check your credit report to ensure no fraudulent activity has occurred related to your closed account.
Step 5: Consider Potential Fees (And How to Avoid Them)
While most banks don't charge a fee for closing an account, there are exceptions.
Sub-heading: Early Closure Fees
- The 90-180 Day Rule: Some banks may charge a fee if you close an account shortly after opening it (e.g., within 90 or 180 days). This is to deter individuals from opening accounts simply for promotional bonuses and then immediately closing them. Check your original account agreement or ask a Truist representative if such a fee applies to your account.
Sub-heading: Negative Balance/Overdraft Fees
- Clear All Debts: Ensure your account is not in a negative balance or has any outstanding overdraft fees before closure. These must be settled. Failure to do so could result in collections or impact your ability to open accounts elsewhere.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Check My Truist Account Balance Before Closing?
You can check your Truist account balance by logging into your Truist online banking or mobile app, calling their automated phone banking service, or visiting a Truist ATM or branch.
QuickTip: Pause when something clicks.
How to Transfer Funds from My Truist Account to Another Bank?
You can transfer funds via online banking (external transfer), initiate a wire transfer at a branch (fees may apply), or withdraw cash and deposit it into your new account.
How to Find My Truist Account Number for Closure?
Your Truist account number can typically be found on your checks, bank statements, or by logging into your Truist online banking portal. You can also get it by calling Truist customer service.
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How to Stop Direct Deposits to My Truist Account?
Contact your employer's HR or payroll department, or the government agency issuing your benefits, to update your direct deposit information with your new bank account details.
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
How to Cancel Automatic Payments Linked to My Truist Account?
Log into each individual service or merchant's website where you have recurring payments set up and update your payment method to your new bank account. Also, cancel any scheduled payments within Truist's Bill Pay service.
How to Know if My Truist Account Has an Early Closure Fee?
Refer to the terms and conditions document you received when opening your Truist account, or contact Truist customer service directly to inquire about any potential early closure fees.
How to Get Written Confirmation of My Truist Account Closure?
When closing your account in person, request a printed confirmation. If closing by phone, explicitly ask for a written confirmation to be mailed or emailed to you.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
How to Securely Dispose of My Truist Debit Card and Checks?
Once your account is confirmed closed, cut up your debit card and shred any unused checks to prevent unauthorized use and protect your personal information.
How to Monitor for Any Post-Closure Issues with My Truist Account?
Periodically review your new bank account statements for a few weeks to ensure no unexpected transactions or attempts to debit your old Truist account occur.
How to Contact Truist Customer Service for Account Closure?
You can reach Truist customer service at 1-844-4TRUIST (1-844-487-8478) during their business hours for assistance with account closure.
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