You can close a Regions checking account by phone, in person, or by mail — the fastest way is usually a call to customer service

Closing a Regions checking account takes a few steps, but none of them are complicated. You'll need to move any remaining money out, make sure no automatic payments are still tied to the account, and then contact Regions to formally close it. The whole process usually takes a few days to a week, depending on which method you choose.

Before you start, check your account one more time. Look for any pending deposits, automatic bill payments, or recurring transfers that might still be active. If money is still coming in or going out, those transactions can cause problems — or fees — after you've requested closure.

Key Takeaways

  • Move all your money out of the account before you contact Regions, since you cannot withdraw from a closed account.
  • Cancel any automatic payments, direct deposits, or recurring transfers linked to the account at least a few days before closure.
  • Call Regions customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, visit a branch in person, or send a written request by mail.
  • Ask for written confirmation of closure once the account is closed, so you have proof if questions come up later.
  • If you have a negative balance or outstanding fees, Regions may hold the account open until those are resolved.

Move your money before you close

Empty the account completely before you contact Regions. Transfer the balance to another bank account — yours or someone else's — or withdraw it in cash at a Regions branch or ATM. Once the account is closed, you cannot access any money in it, even if you change your mind the next day.

If you have direct deposits going to this account (like a paycheck), update your employer's payroll system or your benefits provider to send future deposits to your new account instead. Do this at least a week before you close, so there is no gap in where your money lands.

Stop automatic payments and recurring transfers

Go through your account and find every automatic payment, bill pay, or recurring transfer. This includes subscriptions, gym memberships, insurance payments, loan payments, or any service that pulls money from this account on a regular schedule. Contact each company or service and give them your new account number, or cancel the service if you no longer need it.

Do this at least a few days before you close the account. If a payment tries to go through after closure, it can bounce, and you might face overdraft fees or late fees from the company you owe money to. Some companies take time to update their records, so the earlier you notify them, the safer you are.

Call Regions customer service to close by phone

The fastest way to close is usually a phone call. Find the customer service number on the back of your Regions debit card or on the Regions website. Tell the representative you want to close your checking account and provide your account number.

The representative will confirm that your balance is zero, check for any pending transactions or fees, and then close the account. Ask them to send you written confirmation by mail or email — this gives you proof of closure if you need it later. Keep that confirmation in case a company tries to charge the account after it is closed.

Close in person at a Regions branch

If you prefer to handle it face-to-face, visit any Regions branch with a valid ID. Tell the teller you want to close your checking account. Bring your debit card if you have it, though it is not required.

The teller will verify your identity, confirm the account balance is zero, and process the closure. Ask for a written confirmation slip before you leave. If you have questions about any fees or pending items, the teller can explain them on the spot.

Send a written closure request by mail

If you cannot visit a branch or prefer not to call, you can close by mail. Write a letter to Regions that includes your full name, account number, the date, and a clear statement that you want to close the account. Keep it straightforward: "I request that my Regions checking account number [your number] be closed effective when ready."

Mail the letter to the Regions address listed on your statement or the Regions website. Send it certified mail with return receipt so you have proof it arrived. Closure by mail takes longer — usually one to two weeks — because the letter has to travel and be processed by hand.

What happens if you have a negative balance or fees

If your account is overdrawn or you owe Regions fees, the bank may not close the account until the balance is paid. If this happens, you will receive a notice explaining what you owe. Pay the amount, and then the account can be closed.

If you do not pay, Regions may eventually close the account anyway, but the debt does not disappear. The bank can still try to collect it, and it may appear on your banking history. If you are unsure whether you owe anything, call customer service and ask before you request closure.

After your account is closed

Once the account is closed, your debit card will stop working. Destroy it by cutting it up or shredding it so no one else can try to use it. If you have checks for this account, do not use them — they will be rejected.

Keep your written confirmation of closure for at least a year. If a company tries to charge the closed account or if you need proof that the account no longer exists, you will have documentation. If you ever need to dispute something related to this account, having that confirmation makes it much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to close a Regions checking account?

Closing by phone or in person usually happens the same day or within one business day. Closing by mail takes one to two weeks because the letter has to arrive and be processed. The exact timing depends on whether there are any pending transactions or fees to resolve first.

Can I reopen a Regions checking account after I close it?

Yes, you can open a new Regions account at any time. However, if your old account was closed due to unpaid fees or a negative balance, Regions may require you to pay that debt before opening a new account. Call customer service to ask about your specific situation.

What if I forgot to cancel an automatic payment before closing?

Contact the company or service that was set to receive the payment and explain that the account is now closed. Most companies can update their records and reroute the payment to a new account if you provide one. If a payment was rejected, the company may charge you a fee — contact them to dispute it if the closure was their mistake.

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

You do not have to visit a branch. Phone and mail are both valid ways to close. Choose whichever is easiest for you. Phone is fastest; mail is best if you want everything in writing from the start.

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 is only affected by credit accounts like credit cards, loans, and lines of credit.