You can close a BMO checking account by phone, in person, or online, but the fastest way is usually a phone call to customer service

BMO lets you close a checking account through three routes: calling their customer service line, visiting a branch in person, or using online banking if your account is set up for it. A phone call typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and requires your account number and a form of ID to verify. In-person closure at a branch takes about the same time. Online closure is available for some account types but not all — if the option does not appear in your banking portal, you will need to use one of the other two methods.

Before you close the account, make sure any automatic payments or direct deposits tied to it have been moved or cancelled. Money still in the account will be sent to you by check or transferred to another account you specify. If you have a debit card attached, it will stop working once the account closes, usually within one to three business days.

Key Takeaways

  • Call BMO customer service, visit a branch, or use online banking to close your account — phone is usually fastest.
  • Cancel or redirect any automatic bill payments and direct deposits before closing to avoid missed payments or lost deposits.
  • Your remaining balance will be sent by check or transferred to another account you provide during the closure process.
  • Your debit card will stop working within one to three business days after the account closes.
  • Ask about any outstanding fees or pending transactions before you close, since they may still be charged after closure.

Closing by phone with BMO customer service

Call BMO's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. Have your account number ready, and be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity. The representative will confirm that you want to close the account, check for any pending transactions or fees, and ask where you want your remaining balance sent.

If you have a balance, you can choose to have it mailed as a check or transferred to another bank account. If you choose a transfer, provide the routing number and account number of the receiving bank. The representative will give you a confirmation number — write this down in case you need to follow up.

After you hang up, the account typically closes within one to three business days. Your debit card will stop working at the same time. If you have scheduled payments or recurring charges set to that account, they will be declined once the account is closed, so cancel or move them beforehand.

Closing in person at a BMO branch

Walk into any BMO branch with a government-issued ID and your debit card. Tell the teller you want to close your checking account. They will pull up your account, review any pending activity, and ask how you want your remaining balance handled — by check or transfer to another account.

The process is the same as closing by phone, and you will receive a confirmation number. Ask the teller to write down the date the account will close, since it may not happen when ready even though you are in the branch. If you have questions about fees or pending charges, ask before you leave.

Closing online through BMO's banking portal

Not all BMO checking accounts can be closed online. Log into your account and look for a settings or account management section — some banks label this "Account Services" or "Close Account." If you see the option, click it and follow the prompts to confirm closure and specify where your balance should go.

If the option does not appear, your account type does not support online closure. Call customer service or visit a branch instead. Online closure usually takes the same one to three business days as other methods.

What to do with automatic payments and direct deposits before closing

Any bill payments, subscription charges, or other recurring transactions tied to your old account will fail once it closes. Before you close, log into each service you pay — utilities, insurance, subscriptions, loan payments — and update the payment method to a new account or card. This takes a few minutes per service but prevents late fees or service interruptions.

If you receive direct deposits like paychecks or government benefits, contact your employer or the benefit administrator and provide your new account number. Direct deposits sent to a closed account are typically returned to the sender, and you may have to wait for a reissue. Doing this before closure means your next deposit goes to the right place.

What happens to your remaining balance

Any money left in the account when it closes will not disappear. You choose during the closure process whether to receive it by check or have it transferred to another account. If you choose a check, it is usually mailed within five to seven business days. If you choose a transfer, it typically arrives within one to three business days, depending on the receiving bank.

If you do not specify where the balance should go, BMO may hold it or send it by check to your address on file. Ask the representative or teller to confirm the exact timeline and method before you leave.

Fees and charges after closure

Some accounts have monthly maintenance fees. If your account closes mid-month, you may still be charged a fee for that month — ask the representative whether this applies to you. Overdraft fees or other pending charges may also post after closure, so ask specifically about any outstanding activity on the account.

Once the account is closed, you cannot reopen it under the same account number. If you change your mind shortly after closure, contact BMO to see if they can reverse it, but this is not may provide. If you need a checking account again, you will open a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I close my BMO account if I have a negative balance?

No. You must bring the account to zero or positive before closing. If you owe money, you will need to deposit funds to cover the overdraft. Once the balance is settled, you can proceed with closure.

What if I have a pending check or transaction when I close?

Pending transactions may still post after closure. Ask the representative to review all pending activity before you close. If a check has not cleared, it may bounce once the account closes, so consider waiting for it to clear first or cancelling it if possible.

How long does it take for my debit card to stop working?

Usually one to three business days after the account closes. Do not rely on it when ready after closure. If you need access to funds right away, make sure your balance is transferred to another account before the old one closes.

Can I close my account online if I have a joint account?

Joint accounts typically require all account holders to agree to closure. Call customer service or visit a branch with the other account holder present, or have them call separately to authorize closure. Online closure may not be available for joint accounts.

What if I never receive my balance check?

If your check does not arrive within 10 business days, contact BMO with your confirmation number. They can issue a replacement check or transfer the balance to another account. Keep your confirmation number from the closure process in case you need to follow up.