The bank closed my checking account and did not notify me. Is this legal?
Generally, it is legal for banks to close a customer’s account, and to do so without providing prior notice. Some reasons for an account closure could include inactivity, low usage or fraudulent activity.
Your deposit account agreement provided at the time the account was opened will include information about your bank’s policies specific to your account.
If you believe your bank wrongfully closed your account, file a written complaint with the bank’s regulator. Information on how to determine your bank’s regulator is available on the Who Regulates My Bank page. If your bank is a national bank or federal savings association, file a written complaint with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), by contacting the OCC’s Customer Assistance Group.
Last Reviewed: October 2025
Please note: The terms "bank" and "banks" used in these answers generally refer to national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches or agencies of foreign banking organizations that are regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). Find out if the OCC regulates your bank. Information provided on HelpWithMyBank.gov should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion of the OCC.