You can close a BMO checking account by calling BMO customer service, visiting a branch in person, or using online banking if that option is available on your account

The fastest way is usually a phone call to BMO's customer service line. You will need your account number and a form of identification ready. BMO will ask you to confirm your identity, check whether you have any outstanding transactions or automatic payments linked to the account, and then process the closure. The whole call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

If you prefer to close the account in person, you can walk into any BMO branch with your ID and ask to speak with someone about closing your checking account. Bring your debit card if you have one. A banker will review your account status with you and complete the paperwork on the spot.

Key Takeaways

  • You must stop all automatic payments and transfers before closing, or they may fail and create problems with the companies you pay.
  • Any money remaining in the account will be returned to you by check or transferred to another account you specify.
  • Your debit card will stop working once the account closes, so plan ahead if you use it regularly.
  • Closing an account does not hurt your credit score, but leaving it open with a zero balance does not help it either.

What to do before you call or visit

Before you contact BMO, make a list of every automatic payment and recurring transfer tied to your checking account. This includes bill payments, subscription services, paycheck direct deposits, and transfers to savings accounts. You will need to update or cancel each one separately — BMO cannot do this for you.

Check your account online or call to find out your current balance. If you have money in the account, decide whether you want it sent to you by check or transferred to another bank account. If you choose a transfer, have the routing number and account number of the receiving bank ready. If you choose a check, BMO will mail it to your address on file, which usually takes 5 to 10 business days to arrive.

Make sure your debit card is not set up for any recurring charges you have forgotten about. Look through your email for subscription confirmations or receipts from the past few months. Streaming services, gym memberships, and app purchases are common ones people overlook.

Closing by phone

Call BMO customer service at the number on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. You can also find the number on BMO's website. Have your account number and ID ready before you dial.

When you reach a representative, tell them you want to close your checking account. They will verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, or other personal information. They will then review your account to make sure there are no pending transactions or automatic payments still active.

If the representative finds automatic payments you did not mention, stop and handle those first before closing. Once everything is clear, they will ask how you want your remaining balance handled. After you confirm, they will process the closure and give you a confirmation number. Write this down or ask them to email it to you.

Closing in person at a branch

Find your nearest BMO branch using the branch locator on BMO's website or by calling customer service. Bring your government-issued ID and your debit card. If you have a checkbook, bring that too — the banker may ask to see it.

Walk up to the desk and tell a banker you want to close your checking account. They will pull up your account and review it with you, just as a phone representative would. They will confirm that all automatic payments are stopped and ask how you want your balance returned. If you choose a check, they can print it on the spot in many cases, though some branches mail it instead.

The banker will have you sign paperwork to close the account and will give you a copy for your records. Ask for a written confirmation with the closure date and your confirmation number.

What happens to your remaining money

Any balance left in your account will not disappear. BMO will return it to you in one of two ways: by mailing a check to your address on file, or by transferring it to another bank account you specify. You choose which method when you close the account.

If you choose a check, it usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. If the check is lost in the mail, contact BMO with your confirmation number and they can issue a replacement. If you choose a transfer to another account, the money typically moves within 1 to 3 business days.

If your account has a negative balance — meaning you owe BMO money — you will need to pay that before closing. You can do this by transferring money into the account from another bank, depositing cash at a branch, or paying over the phone with a debit card.

Stopping automatic payments and direct deposits

This is the step most people forget, and it can cause real problems. If you close your account while automatic payments are still set up, those payments will fail. Your utility company, credit card issuer, or other payee may charge you a fee for the failed payment, and you could fall behind on bills.

Log into each company's website or app and update your payment method to a different bank account or credit card. For paycheck direct deposits, contact your employer's payroll department and give them your new bank account information. This usually takes one pay period to take effect, so do it at least a week before you close your BMO account.

If you are not sure which companies have your account number on file, check your email for recent payment confirmations or receipts. Call the companies directly if you are unsure.

After your account is closed

Your debit card will stop working when ready or within a few hours of closure. Do not try to use it. If you have checks printed with your BMO account number, do not write any more checks — they will bounce.

Keep your confirmation number and any paperwork BMO gave you. If a company tries to charge your old account after closure, you will need proof that the account is closed. BMO may also contact you if there are any issues with the closure or if mail arrives for the account.

Closing an account does not affect your credit score. Your credit report will show the account as closed, but this is normal and expected. It does not hurt you to close a checking account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reopen my BMO checking account after I close it?

Yes, you can usually reopen an account within a certain period after closure, though policies vary. Contact BMO customer service to ask whether your account can be reopened and whether there are any fees. If too much time has passed, you may need to open a new account instead.

What if I have a pending check or transfer when I want to close?

Tell the BMO representative about any checks you have written or transfers you have set up that have not cleared yet. They may ask you to wait until those transactions complete, or they may close the account and handle the pending items separately. Do not close the account if you are unsure whether a check has cleared.

Do I need to close my account in person, or can I do it all by phone?

You can close your account entirely by phone. Many people do. The only reason to visit a branch is if you want your remaining balance as a check printed on the spot, or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face.

Will closing my account affect my other BMO accounts?

No. Closing one account does not affect your savings account, credit card, or any other BMO product you have. Each account is separate.

What if I have a joint account with someone else?

Both account holders usually need to agree to close a joint account. Contact BMO to find out their specific policy, as it may vary. One account holder may be able to remove themselves from the account without closing it entirely.