How to Close SBI Bank Account – A Complete 2025 Guide

Ravi had spent nearly 7 years banking with SBI, it was where he built the foundation of his financial journey. From saving for his dream trip to Europe to taking out a ₹50,000 loan for his first bike, and even receiving his first ₹30,000 pay cheque directly into his account, SBI had been a constant companion. But now, with his transition to digital banking and managing four active accounts across different platforms, he realised it was time to close this chapter and say goodbye to his SBI Bank Account.

It had been over 6 months since Ravi last visited his branch, so when he stepped in on Monday morning, it felt a little odd. The waiting area’s slightly worn-out chairs brought back memories of those days when he had spent over 45 minutes waiting in long lines for small transactions. The security guard, who had always greeted him, nodded in recognition.

At the counter, Ravi asked, “I want to close my account. What is the process?”

The bank official handed him a form and explained, “Simply fill this out, submit your passbook, chequebook, and debit card. If you have any remaining balance, please withdraw or transfer it first.”

Ravi checked his balance, which was ₹1,200, and immediately transferred it to his digital wallet. He filled out the form within 5 minutes and submitted the required paperwork, his passbook, chequebook with 15 unused leaves, and the debit card that had been issued 3 years ago.

Since his account had been open for almost a year, there were no account closure fees, which typically amount to ₹500 if the account is closed within the first year. Ravi received an acknowledgment slip, and within 15 minutes, his paperwork was processed.

As he walked out, Ravi couldn't help but feel a rush of nostalgia. That branch had been part of his journey, from his first loan of ₹50,000 to his first pay cheque. But as he moved on to more digital avenues, he left with a faint smile, knowing that this chapter, like the ₹1,200 he’d transferred, was now closed. He was ready to step into the next phase of his financial journey.

Key Points to Consider Before Closing Your SBI Bank Account Online

It is necessary to give closing your State Bank of India (SBI) account considerable thought and to follow certain guidelines. Here are the main things to remember:

In-Person Closure Requirement

• Account closures must be completed in person at your home branch, per SBI regulations. There isn’t a way to close accounts online at the moment. To begin the closure procedure, you will need to go to the branch where your account is kept.

   

Applicable Charges

Be careful of the fees involved with terminating your account, which change according to how long the account has been open: 

• Within 14 days of account opening: No charges apply.
• From 15 days to 1 year: A fee of ₹500 plus GST is levied.

• After 1 year: No charges are imposed.

   

These charges are applicable to savings accounts. For current accounts, different charges may apply.

Balance Withdrawal

• Before starting the account closure procedure, make sure you transfer or withdraw any leftover funds. By doing this, possible delays and issues can be avoided.

   

Linked Services

• Before you close your account, make sure you control any associated services, such as bill payments, loan accounts, or automatic payments. Transfer these services to a different account or de-link them to prevent interruptions.

   

Permanent Closure 

• The account cannot be reopened after it has been closed. You will need to register a new account with a different account number if you want to bank with SBI again in the future.

   

Special Account Types

• There may be particular rules for the closure process for some accounts, such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts or Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDA). For specific details, it is best to speak with your branch.

• You may guarantee a seamless and effective closure of your SBI Bank Account by taking these factors into account and according to the guidelines.

   

Documents Required to Close SBI Bank Account

Before you visit the branch, get the necessary paperwork ready:

• Account Closure Form: You can download this form from the official SBI website or pick it up at your local branch.

• Identification Proof: Carry valid ID proof for verification.

• Account-Related Items: Return your passbook, chequebook, and debit card.

   

SBI Bank Account Closing Charges

How to Close an SBI Bank Account Online (Is It Possible?)

The State Bank of India (SBI) does not currently have an online account closure tool, you will need to visit your local branch in person to close your account.

How to Close SBI Bank Account Offline (Step-by-Step Guide)

Before visiting the branch, ensure that you have the following:

Account Closure Form: You can obtain this form on the SBI website or pick it up from your local branch.

Identification Proof: Keep a valid ID on you for validation.

Account-Related Items: Return your passbook, chequebook, and debit card.

Visit Your Home Branch

Provide accurate information on the form, such as your account number, personal details, and the reason for closure.

Submit the Form and Documents

Hand over the filled form along with your passbook, chequebook, debit card, and identification proof to the bank official.

Withdraw Remaining Balance

Before starting the account closure procedure, make sure you transfer or withdraw any remaining funds.

Acknowledge Charges and Fees

Keep in mind that SBI might charge fees for closing an account, particularly if you do it within 14 days to a year of starting the account. During your visit, it is recommended to verify with the bank representative the costs that apply.

Obtain Acknowledgment

The bank will recognise the account closure once your request has been processed.

Please note that closing a joint account requires the consent of all joint signatories. To prevent interruptions, make sure that any associated services, automatic payments, or standing orders are cancelled or moved to another account.

You can effectively close your SBI Bank Account by following these procedures and making sure all associated services are taken care of.

How to Check the Status of Your SBI Bank Account Closure Request

You can take the steps listed below to find out the status of your request to close your State Bank of India (SBI) account.

Contact Your Home Branch

It’s best to get in touch with the branch where you made your closure request immediately because SBI Bank Account closures are handled at the home branch.

• Visit the Branch: Personally visit your home branch to inquire about the status.

• Call the Branch: Use the branch’s contact number to speak with a bank official who can provide updates on your request.

   

Utilise SBI’s Customer Care Services

If visiting or calling the branch is not feasible, you can reach out to SBI’s customer care for assistance:

• SBI Contact Centre: Use the toll-free numbers 1800 1234 or 1800 2100 to reach the SBI contact centre. Provide them with the information they need to follow your application, including your account number and the closure request date.
  
  
• Online Complaint Status: You can monitor the progress of any complaints or service requests you have made about the closure of your account online.
  
• Visit the SBI Complaint Status Portal.
• Enter your Complaint Ticket Number and Mobile Number.
• Complete the CAPTCHA verification and click “Submit” to view the status.

Email Communication

Additionally, you can email your home branch’s customer support division. Make sure to provide pertinent information such as your name, account number, and the closure request date. Usually, you can find the email address on the official SBI website or by getting in touch with the branch.

Important Considerations

• Processing Time: Processing a request to close an account could take several business days. Waiting a fair amount of time before requesting a status update is advised.
  
  

• Acknowledgement Receipt: Always get an acknowledgement receipt when you submit your closure request. This document can be helpful for future reference and acts as evidence of your request.

   

You may efficiently track the progress of your request to close your SBI Bank Account by following these steps.

Common Issues Faced During Account Closure & How to Resolve Them

There are sometimes difficulties when closing an account with the State Bank of India (SBI). Customers may encounter the following typical problems when closing their accounts, along with some recommended fixes:

Requirement for In-Person Closure

Issue: SBI mandates that account closure be conducted in person at the home branch. This can be inconvenient for customers who have relocated or are unable to visit the branch.

Solution: If you are unable to visit the home branch, speak with the branch manager personally. Describe your circumstances and ask if the procedure can be completed remotely. Branches may occasionally permit the submission of necessary documents by mail or email.

Pending Dues or Charges:

Issue: Outstanding dues, charges, or negative balances can hinder the account closure process.

Solution: Make sure all debts are paid before starting the closure process. Keep an eye out for any fees or charges on your account. If inconsistencies appear, discuss them right away with bank representatives.

Linked Service and Automatic Payments:

Issue: Active services linked to the account, such as automatic payments, loans, or subscriptions, can complicate the closure process.

Solution: Determine which related services need to be deactivated or transferred before shutdown. This covers linked Demat or trading accounts, Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) requirements, and standing instructions.

Retrieval of Remaining Balance

Issue: Failing to withdraw or transfer the remaining account balance before closure can lead to delays.

Solution: Make sure that all money has been taken out or moved to another active account before submitting the closure request.

Submission of Required Documents

Issue: Not providing necessary documents, such as the account closure form, identification proof, passbook, chequebook, and debit card, can impede the process.

Solution: Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork before you visit the branch. In the event that any items are missing, notify the bank in writing and according to their established protocol.

Inactive or Dormant Accounts

Issue: Accounts that have been inactive for an extended period may become dormant, complicating the closure process.

Solution: To reactivate a dormant account, visit any SBI branch with updated Know Your Customer (KYC) documents and submit a request for activation. Once reactivated, you can proceed with the closure process.

Communication Gaps

Issue: Lack of clear communication regarding the status of the closure request can cause confusion.

Solution: Keep in touch with the branch on a regular basis after submitting the closure request to find out how things are progressing. Keep the acknowledgement receipt that was given at the time of submission for your records.

Charges for Early Closure

Issue: Closing an account shortly after opening may incur charges.

Solution: Understand the bank’s policy about fees associated with closing an account. For example, if an account is closed within a certain time frame after it was opened, SBI may collect fees. During your visit, it is recommended to verify with the bank representative the costs that apply.

Conclusion

Closing your State Bank of India (SBI) account is a big choice that needs to be well thought out and done according to the bank's guidelines. To ensure the safe handling of your financial affairs, account termination must be done in person at your home branch in accordance with SBI's rules. 

To avoid further issues, it is crucial to pay off any outstanding debts, remove or transfer any remaining funds, and take care of any associated services before starting the closure. You may guarantee a seamless and effective account closing procedure by carefully adhering to these guidelines and seeking advice from bank representatives as necessary.

FAQs 

Q. How to close an SBI Bank Account?

By filling out an Account Closure Form and bringing the necessary paperwork and accessories to your local branch, you can terminate your SBI Bank Account. Along with the account termination fees, you will also need to pay down any pending or unpaid balances you may have.

Q. What are SBI Bank Account closing charges?

You may be required to pay an account closing fee, which will depend on the kind and age of the account you choose to shut. Account closure fees for SBI savings and deposit accounts can reach ₹500 + GST. The maximum amount for current accounts is ₹1000 plus GST. Further information is available on our website.

Q. How to close an SBI Bank Account online?

The State Bank of India (SBI) does not currently have an online account closure tool, you will need to visit your local branch in person to close your account.

Apply for Loans Fast and Hassle-Free

Apply Now

About the Author

LoansJagat Team

We are a team of writers, editors, and proofreaders with 15+ years of experience in the finance field. We are your personal finance gurus! But, we will explain everything in simplified language. Our aim is to make personal and business finance easier for you. While we help you upgrade your financial knowledge, why don't you read some of our blogs?