How to close a bank account? 2026 guide
- Closing a current account or a passbook is free, whatever the reason (source: Banque de France / lesclesdelabanque).
- A simple written request (letter or form) is enough; the account agreement may provide for a maximum notice period of 30 days.
- Empty the account beforehand: a credit balance is returned to you, a debit balance must be repaid before closure.
- ⚠️ This guide is for information only and does not constitute personalised advice. Refer to your account agreement and the official sources cited.
Knowing how to close a bank account avoids many unpleasant surprises: direct debits that bounce back, a forgotten balance, undue fees. The procedure is in fact simple and free. Here are the steps and your rights, up to date for 2026.
A free process, with no justification needed
In France, closing a current account or a passbook account is entirely free, whatever the reason given (source: Banque de France, lesclesdelabanque.com). You do not have to justify your decision.
The account agreement may provide for a notice period, but the law caps it at 30 days maximum. In practice, closure is often effective within a few days as soon as the account is settled and the means of payment returned.
The closure letter
The request is made in writing, via a closure letter (or your bank’s dedicated form). It states your details, the number of the account to be closed and, ideally, the account details (RIB) of the account to which any balance should be transferred.
It is recommended to send it by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt to keep proof of the date. Some banks also allow the request from the online customer area.
Preparing the account before closure
Before the closure takes effect, a few operations are essential:
- Transfer recurring transfers and direct debits to your new account (the bank mobility mandate can handle this if you are switching bank).
- Wait for the last cheques issued to clear.
- Return the bank card and any unused chequebook.
- Bring the balance to zero or check that it is available for return.
A credit balance is returned to you: it represents a claim on the bank, generally repaid by transfer. A debit balance, on the contrary, must be settled before closure.
The case of joint accounts and savings
For a joint account, closure in principle requires the agreement of all co-holders. One of them can, however, withdraw their joint liability from the account, which changes how it operates. If this concerns you, our ranking of the best joint account details the options suited to a couple or a shared household.
Watch out too for savings products: unlike the current account, the transfer or closure of certain contracts (a PEA, for example) may be charged according to the pricing in force. Check this point before closing a full banking relationship.
And if the bank refuses or drags its feet?
The bank can also end the relationship, but it must then respect a notice period of at least two months. In case of difficulty (unjustified refusal, abnormally long delay), you can refer the matter to the institution’s banking ombudsman, whose contact details appear on your statements.
If your goal is above all to switch to a cheaper institution, it is better to open the new account first: discover our selection of the best online banks before launching the closure.
Frequently asked questions
Is closing a bank account chargeable?
No. Closing a current account or a passbook account is free, whatever the reason. Only the transfer or closure of certain savings products (such as a PEA) may be charged according to the pricing in force (source: Banque de France).
Is a notice period required to close your account?
The account agreement may provide for a notice period, but it cannot exceed 30 days. In practice, closure is often effective within a few days once the account is settled and the means of payment returned.
What happens to the money left in the account?
A credit balance is a claim on the bank: it must return the funds to you, generally by transfer to another account. A debit balance must be settled: the bank can require it to be repaid before closure.