Free Request to Close a Fraudulent Bank Account

The bank may require that you include proof of your identity theft incident such as photocopies of the ID Theft Affidavit, a filed Police Report, any letters to credit bureaus requesting the account be removed from your credit report, etc. Contact the bank to determine what additional information, if any, may be required.

Photocopies, not the original copies, of any relevant documents should be included with the letter. You should keep a copy of all written communications with the bank and maintain a written summary of all oral communications.

If you discover an account has been opened in your name without your authorization, you should contact the bank to close the account. The letter simply states that the account has been opened fraudulently (or without your permission) and asks the bank to close the account.

Note: You should contact the bank immediately and use this letter as a follow-up.

1. The letter should be signed, but it is not necessary that the signature be witnessed or notarized.

2. Be sure to attach any evidence of the identity theft incident, if applicable.

3. Retain a copy for your records. Keep the original copies of any enclosures unless you are required to send the originals. If you send an original, keep a copy.

4. Although not required, sending the letter in a manner that can be tracked (e.g., overnight courier or certified mail/return receipt requested) is highly advisable. It may assist you in the event you need evidence of receipt of the letter.

5. After a reasonable amount of time has passed, follow up to make sure that any requested action was actually taken.