Can't close bank account

can you put a hard block on it?this way no ACH
debits will go through.

I am not for sure? The bank is not very willing to help.

What bank is it?

Is your account still positive? If it is then you can close it regardless of what they say. If it is negative you have to see a branch manager and have it put on deposit only status but watch it carefully that someone does not override the Managers decision at another level.

It is a local, community owned bank...My account is in the positive, for now...

Have they given you any reasons as to why you can't close your account? If not, I'd certainly ask for their reasons.

Sounds strange...

amberishmaelcrt, I'm not understanding why they won't close out your account, if it's in the possitive, there is no reason I can think of that they can stop you, having or not having a bank account is a choice. You do need to go into the bank physically, to close it though. :)

They might not close it AT THE MOMENT b/c there are probably items pending for payment slated to post today. Once these clear, if your account is positive, you should be able to close your account.

They will also not want to close it if you tell them that you still have outstanding checks that have not yet cleared. Other than that and the post above, I can't understand how they could keep you from closing your account.

Tell them that if they don't comply with your request, you will take your business elsewhere. Banks are not supposed to tell you you cannot close your own account even if you have pending checks, etc. I just closed my account recently and checks were pending but everything was transferred to the new account with no hassels. Think about switching to a well known bank like Bank of America, Wachovia, Chevy Chase or get with a credit union. Also, talk to FDIC about this too and let them know what you are going through. There are laws to protect us. Good Luck.

I also bank with a small town, community bank and when I closed my account they only wanted to verify who still had pendings debits or any checks out, but the closed it on the spot. They just let me take out the money over and above what they needed to clear the account. Not getting personal but could you take the money out and make arrangements with those who still have funds pending? Or is it too close to do that?

Like others, I can't see what valid reason they would have to refuse to close the account.

If nothing else, I would write a nasty letter to manager or corporate. Tell them you have repeatedly been denied requests to close the account. Since they will not honor your request, you are therefore withdrawing all of your available funds, and take no responsibility for the account as of the date of the letter. Advise them that you will file complaints with the FDIC and OCC (Office of the Comptroller of Currency).

If something comes through and they pay it, and your account ends up negative, the FDIC will force them to close the account after 120 days.

I agree but I do have one question. Were there any Legal ramifications regarding closing your account? That would be a concern that I would address, if it has not been already. Other than that, I see no reason why you can't "take the money and run" so to speak. Please keep us posted.

This seems strange to me I have never heard of a bank refusing to close an account. They are johnny on the spot to close accounts when they decide. I would report them