How to Close a Wells Fargo Account in 2026

Updated February 2026 • 8 min read

Whether it is the fees, the scandals, or just better options elsewhere — closing a Wells Fargo account requires a phone call or branch visit. You cannot close a Wells Fargo account online. Here is the step-by-step process, plus everything you need to do before and after to avoid bounced payments and surprise fees.

Before You Close: The Checklist

Method 1: Close by Phone

1. Call 1-800-869-3557
2. Say "close account" to the automated system
3. Verify your identity (SSN, account number, security questions)
4. Request account closure
5. Ask where remaining balance will be sent (check mailed to your address)
6. Get a confirmation number
7. Request written closure confirmation via email or mail

Best time to call: Tuesday-Thursday, early morning (8-9am your time zone). Monday mornings and Friday afternoons have the longest wait times.

Method 2: Close at a Branch

1. Visit any Wells Fargo branch with a valid photo ID
2. Tell the banker you want to close your account
3. They will check for pending transactions
4. Remaining balance can be given as a cashier's check on the spot
5. Get a signed closure confirmation before leaving

Branch closure is faster for getting your remaining money — you walk out with a check instead of waiting for one to be mailed.

Closing a Wells Fargo Credit Card

1. Pay off the entire balance first
2. Redeem any remaining rewards points
3. Call the number on the back of your card
4. Request account closure
5. Get written confirmation
6. Cut up the card

Credit score impact: Closing a credit card reduces your total available credit, which can increase your credit utilization ratio and temporarily lower your score. If the card has no annual fee, consider keeping it open with a small recurring charge instead.

Why People Leave Wells Fargo

• Monthly fees: $10/mo checking (waivable), $5/mo savings
• Overdraft fees: $35 per occurrence (Wells Fargo reduced but did not eliminate these)
• Scandal history: Fake accounts scandal, auto insurance overcharges, mortgage abuses
• Better alternatives: Online banks offer higher interest and no fees
• Interest rates: Wells Fargo savings pays 0.01-0.15% APY vs. 4-5% at online banks

Better Alternatives

• Ally Bank: No fees, 4%+ savings APY, excellent app
• Marcus by Goldman Sachs: High-yield savings, no fees
• SoFi: No fees, 4%+ APY on checking and savings, $300 sign-up bonus
• Capital One 360: No fees, good app, some branches if you need one
• Local credit union: Community-focused, often better rates and lower fees

After Closing: Follow Up

• Check your credit report after 30 days to confirm the account shows as "closed by consumer"
• Monitor for any surprise fees or charges for 90 days
• Keep your closure confirmation indefinitely
• If an old autopay hits the closed account, Wells Fargo may reopen it — dispute immediately

The Bottom Line

Closing a Wells Fargo account requires a phone call or branch visit — no online option. The actual closure is quick, but the preparation matters most. Move your money, update your direct deposits and autopays, and wait for pending transactions to clear before you close. With online banks offering 4-5% APY and zero fees, there is no reason to stay somewhere that charges you $10/month for the privilege of holding your money.