If you wish to close your bank account you must make sure all of your cheques have cleared and you have left enough money in your account to cover any fees associated with closing your account. A formal letter with your account details and a dated signature is required for both yours and the bank's records. It ensures that both parties are in agreement or at least aware that the account is to be closed and your contract with the bank terminated. The letter can be delivered by you in person or be sent in the post to the branch where the account was set up. To be legitimate, the letter must begin with the date on which you would like the account to close (or effective immediately). It must also clearly display your full name, as it appears on your bank statement, your account number and sort code. You should state that you have no outstanding debits or cheques coming into or out of the account. The letter should include a short summary as to why you are closing the account. It is important to include a contact telephone number and your current address. If you are closing the account by post the bank will post a cheque with your remaining balance and they may wish to send you any relevant tax information. Finally sign your name (including the date that the letter was written below your signature).
