---
title: 5 Easy Steps to Dump Your Bank
description: Even if you hate your bank, leaving might seem like a hassle. Here's how to find a better bank and close your old account the right way.
authors:
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      - Housing
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published: '2015-10-25T17:30:35.000Z'
modified: '2024-04-16T07:13:18.000Z'
section: Banking
canonical: https://money.com/collection-post/how-to-dump-your-bank-2015/
type: Article
source: structured-blocks
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> **Disclosure:** We research all brands listed and may earn a fee from our partners. Research and financial considerations may influence how brands are displayed. Not all brands are included. [Learn more](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/).

![BestBanks_Make The Switch_small](https://img.money.com/2015/10/bestbanks_make-the-switch_small.jpg)

Even if you hate your bank, leaving might seem like a hassle. Yet “switching can be painless if you stay organized,” says Greg McBride of Bankrate.com.

#### 1\. Find a Better Fit

Review Money’s winners, keeping your habits in mind. If you travel a lot, for instance, you’ll want to make sure you can [access ATMs](https://money.com/collection-post/best-banks-most-atms-chase-2015/) wherever you go without facing big fees.

#### 2\. Threaten to leave

Call customer service at your current bank to say you’re considering a switch, and give the rep a chance to offer better terms. Your choice doesn’t have to be all or nothing: If you like your checking account but want a better rate on savings, open a stand-alone account elsewhere.

#### 3\. Get the paperwork

If you decide to change, ask your new bank for its “switch kit,” a packet of checklists and form letters that streamline the process. There’s a free generic one at [money.us/switchkit](http://www.money.us/switchkit).

#### 4\. Stall for time

Don’t leave right away. Transfer direct deposits, automated billing, and most of your cash. Leave enough behind to avoid a maintenance fee and cover outstanding checks, plus a month of expenses in case the transfer takes an extra billing cycle.

#### 5\. Close your old account

Once your new bills are being paid and old checks have cleared, submit an account-closure form. As long as the account is at least six months old, you probably won’t even owe a closing fee.

**Here are Money's picks for the Best Banks of 2015-2016:**

-   [Best Banks at a Glance](https://money.com/collection-post/best-banks-2015-at-a-glance/)
-   [Best Big Bank](https://money.com/collection-post/best-big-bank-td-2015/)
-   Best Online Bank
-   [Best Mobile Banking App](https://money.com/collection-post/best-mobile-banking-app-bbva-compass-2015/)
-   Best Stand-Alone Bank Accounts
-   [Best Regional Banks](https://money.com/collection-post/best-regional-banks-midwest-firstmerit-2015/)
-   [Best Banks for Convenience](https://money.com/collection-post/best-banks-footprint-most-locations-wells-fargo-2015/)

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