Closing a savings account can often be difficult. If there is money still in the account at the time you want to close it, that can cause more complications than closing an account with a zero balance. Each bank operates differently when closing an account; some give you multiple options, whereas others may only have one option.
Step 1
Contact your bank by phone and inform the representative that you would like to close your savings account. She will most likely ask for your Social Security number, birth date and other identifying information to verify your account.
Step 2
Visit your local branch if you do not want to contact an agent over the phone. Visiting a local branch physically is more effective since you will have physical identification and receive documentation that can be given the same day showing the account is closed. Another benefit is that you may be able to receive any outstanding cash in the account the same day.
Step 3
Follow up with your account closure by attempting to log into your online account or access your savings account via your ATM machine if you were issued a debit card. If the account is closed, your user name, password and PIN number may no longer access the account.
Step 4
Wait for a final bank statement in the mail that shows your ending balance, and that the account is closed. If you have opted for paperless statements, then you should receive an e-mail when this bill is available.