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We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

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The bank/credit union closed my checking account even though I did not want them to. Can the bank/credit union do that?

Answer:

Yes, a bank or credit union can close your account without your permission. 

A bank or credit union is most likely to do this if you have written bad checks or don’t have enough in your account to cover your fees. Banks and credit unions may also close dormant accounts for which there has been no activity for a substantial period of time (generally years). Some states may require your bank or credit union to give you notice before it closes your account.

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The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. The CFPB updates this information periodically. This information may include links or references to third-party resources or content. We do not endorse the third-party or guarantee the accuracy of this third-party information. There may be other resources that also serve your needs.

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