The fastest way to close your account

You can close a Regions checking account by calling Regions customer service at 1-800-regions (1-800-734-6267), visiting a branch in person, or using online banking if that option is available on your account. The phone route is usually quickest — you'll reach someone who can walk you through the process in one call, and the account closes within a few business days.

Before you call or visit, make sure your account balance is zero. If you have money left, Regions will send it to you by check or transfer it to another account you specify. If you have pending transactions or automatic payments set up, those need to settle first, which can take a few days.

You don't need a reason to close the account, and there's no penalty for doing so. Regions doesn't charge a closure fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-regions (1-800-734-6267) to close your account over the phone, which is usually the fastest method.
  • Your account balance must be zero before closure — transfer or withdraw any remaining funds first.
  • Stop or settle any automatic payments, direct deposits, or pending transactions before you close the account.
  • The account typically closes within a few business days after you request closure.
  • Regions does not charge a fee to close a checking account.

What to do with money still in the account

If your account has a balance when you request closure, you have two options. You can withdraw the money in cash at a Regions branch, or you can ask Regions to transfer it to another bank account in your name. If you choose a transfer, provide the routing number and account number of the receiving bank — Regions will move the funds electronically, which usually takes one to three business days.

If you don't withdraw or transfer the balance before closure, Regions will mail you a check. This takes longer and adds an extra step, so it's better to handle the balance yourself before you call to close.

Stopping automatic payments and direct deposits

Before closing your account, check whether you have any automatic bill payments, recurring transfers, or direct deposits set up. These need to be canceled or redirected first, because they can cause problems if they try to process after the account is closed.

For automatic payments you set up with Regions (like paying your credit card or loan through online banking), log in and cancel them in the bill pay section. For payments set up with other companies — like your employer's direct deposit or a utility company's automatic withdrawal — contact those companies directly and ask them to send payments to your new account instead.

Give yourself at least a week to handle this before you close the account, because some companies take time to process changes.

Closing the account by phone

Call 1-800-regions (1-800-734-6267) during business hours. Have your account number ready, and be prepared to verify your identity with your Social Security number or other information Regions asks for. The representative will confirm that your balance is zero and that you have no pending transactions, then process the closure.

Ask the representative for a confirmation number and write it down. This gives you proof that you requested closure on a specific date, which is useful if you ever need to dispute something later.

Closing the account in person at a branch

Visit any Regions branch with a photo ID and your account number. A teller can close the account on the spot, handle your remaining balance, and give you a receipt. This method works well if you prefer to handle things face-to-face or if you want to withdraw cash when ready.

Bring any debit cards associated with the account so you can turn them in. Regions will deactivate them, but returning them prevents confusion later.

What happens after you request closure

Once you've requested closure, the account typically closes within two to five business days. During that time, Regions will process any pending transactions and then shut down the account. You won't be able to use the debit card or write checks after closure.

If you set up direct deposit with your employer, make sure you've given them your new account information before the old account closes. If a direct deposit tries to post to a closed account, it bounces back to your employer, and you may have to wait for a reissue.

If you need to reopen the account later

If you close the account and then change your mind, you can open a new Regions checking account. However, this is a separate account with a new account number — Regions cannot reopen the exact same account. The process for opening a new account is the same as opening any Regions checking account, and you'll need to provide identification and initial deposit information.

If you closed the account because of a problem or mistake, contact Regions customer service first to see if they can help resolve the issue before you close.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will closing my account hurt my credit score?

No. Closing a checking account does not affect your credit score because checking accounts are not reported to credit bureaus. Your credit score is based on credit accounts like credit cards, loans, and lines of credit.

What if I have a pending check that hasn't cleared yet?

Wait for the check to clear before closing the account. If you close before it clears, the check may bounce. Contact Regions if you're unsure whether a check has cleared — they can tell you the status.

Can I close the account online without calling?

Some Regions accounts allow closure through online banking, but not all. Log into your account and look for a "close account" or "account settings" option. If you don't see it, you'll need to call or visit a branch.

What if I have a negative balance or owe Regions money?

You cannot close the account until the negative balance is paid. Contact Regions to find out the exact amount owed, then deposit funds to bring the account to zero before requesting closure.

How long does it take to receive a check if I don't transfer my balance?

Regions typically mails a check within one to two weeks after closure. The check itself takes several more days to arrive depending on your location. It's faster to transfer the balance electronically or withdraw it before closure.