The basic steps to close a Nationwide savings account

To close a Nationwide savings account, you have three main routes: call Nationwide directly, visit a branch in person, or use online banking if your account type supports it. The fastest method is usually a phone call to the customer service number on the back of your card or statement. A representative will confirm your identity, ask why you're closing (they may offer to keep the account open, but you can decline), and walk you through what happens next to your remaining balance.

Nationwide will not automatically transfer your money elsewhere. You need to tell them where to send it — either to another bank account you own, or they can mail you a check. If you have pending transactions or automatic payments set up, those need to be handled before or when ready after closing. The account itself typically closes within a few business days once the balance is zero and no outstanding transactions remain.

Key Takeaways

  • Call Nationwide customer service, visit a branch, or use online banking to request closure — phone is usually fastest.
  • You must direct where your remaining balance goes: to another bank account or by check in the mail.
  • Cancel any automatic payments or transfers linked to the account before closing, or do it when ready after.
  • The account closes within a few business days once the balance reaches zero and no transactions are pending.
  • Keep your final statement and confirmation number in case you need proof the account is closed.

Calling Nationwide to close your account

The phone number for Nationwide customer service is on the back of your debit card, on your most recent statement, or on the Nationwide website. Have your account number and a form of ID ready when you call. A representative will verify who you are, usually by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account.

Tell them you want to close the account. They may ask why — this is routine and not a barrier to closing. You can say you're consolidating accounts, moving banks, or straightforward no longer need it. Once you confirm you want to proceed, the representative will ask where to send your balance. You can give them another bank account number (you'll need the routing number and account number), or request a check by mail. Ask for a confirmation number and write it down.

Closing your account in person at a Nationwide branch

If you prefer to close the account face-to-face, bring your debit card and a photo ID to any Nationwide branch. Tell a teller you want to close your savings account. They will verify your identity and ask for instructions on where to send the balance — the same options as over the phone. In-person closure can be faster because the teller can sometimes process it when ready, though the account may still take a few business days to fully close in the system.

This route is useful if you have questions about the process or want to make sure everything is handled correctly before you leave. The teller can also help if you're unsure about your account number or routing number for a transfer.

Using online banking to close your account

Not all Nationwide account types allow closure through online banking. If yours does, you can usually find a "Close Account" or "Account Settings" option in the account details section. The system will walk you through confirming your identity and directing your balance. This method is available 24/7 and leaves a digital record, but you lose the chance to ask questions in real time.

Before attempting online closure, check that your account balance is positive and that no transactions are pending. If the system won't let you close the account, it usually means you need to call or visit a branch instead — this is common for accounts with complications or holds.

What to do with automatic payments and transfers before closing

Any automatic payments or recurring transfers tied to your Nationwide account need to be stopped before closure. This includes bill payments, paycheck deposits, transfers to other accounts, or subscriptions charged to the account. Log into your Nationwide account and cancel these in the settings, or call customer service to have them removed.

If you forget and the account closes with active transfers, payments may bounce or fail. The merchant or service may charge you a fee, and you could miss a payment important date. If you're moving money to another bank, set up the new transfers at least a week before closing the Nationwide account to make sure everything is working.

What happens to your remaining balance

Your money does not disappear when you close the account. Nationwide will send it to the destination you specified — either another bank account or a mailed check. If you chose a bank transfer, the money usually arrives within one to three business days. If you requested a check, it will be mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within five to ten business days.

Keep track of when you close the account and when you expect the money to arrive. If more than two weeks pass and you haven't received a check, or if a transfer hasn't shown up after five business days, call Nationwide to confirm the closure was processed and ask for a status update.

Keeping records after you close

Save your confirmation number, the date you closed the account, and the final statement. If you requested a check, note the date it was mailed. These records protect you if there's a dispute later or if you need to prove the account is closed for another reason — for example, if a company tries to charge the account after closure.

You can request a final statement from Nationwide if you don't have one. This shows the closing balance and confirms the account is closed. Some people keep these records for a year or two, though you can discard them once you're confident the closure went through smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reopen a Nationwide savings account after closing it?

Yes, you can open a new Nationwide savings account at any time. However, if the account was closed due to fraud or violation of terms, Nationwide may decline to open a new one. For a routine closure, reopening is straightforward — you straightforward open a new account as you would have the first time.

What if I have a negative balance when I try to close?

You cannot close the account until the balance is zero or positive. If you owe money, you must deposit funds to cover the negative balance first. Call Nationwide to confirm the exact amount owed, deposit it, and then request closure.

Do I need to close the account before moving to another bank?

No, but it's a good idea. You can leave the account open indefinitely, but closing it prevents accidental charges and simplifies your finances. If you're moving direct deposits or automatic payments, closing the old account ensures nothing gets missed.

How long does it take for a Nationwide savings account to fully close?

The account typically closes within a few business days after your balance is zero and no transactions are pending. In some cases it takes up to two weeks. If you need confirmation that it's closed, call customer service after a week and ask for written confirmation.

What if I closed the account but money is still being charged to it?

Contact Nationwide when ready. Charges after closure should not happen, but if they do, the bank can reverse them. Have your confirmation number and the date of closure ready. This is why keeping records is important — you can prove when you closed it.