Varo Account Closed? What Happens Next, Refunds, and Alternatives
Written, Reviewed and Fact-Checked by The Credit People
Varo won't disclose why your account closed, and you can't reopen it or appeal; they'll mail your remaining balance by check within 14 days, so confirm your mailing address immediately.
Open a new bank account fast, update your direct deposit and autopays to avoid missed payments, and settle any negative balance to prevent collections.
Review your credit report for any unexpected negative marks.
Take immediate action to protect your money and prevent disruptions.
Let's fix your credit and raise your score
See how we can improve your credit by 50-100+ pts (average). We'll pull your score + review your credit report over the phone together (100% free).
9 Experts Available Right Now
54 agents currently helping others with their credit
Why Was My Varo Account Closed?
Your Varo account was closed because Varo reviews account activity regularly to protect its users and enforce its User Agreement. They don't usually share exact reasons due to security and privacy, but closures often relate to suspicious patterns or contract terms.
Common triggers include:
- Violating terms like fraudulent actions or multiple accounts
- Unusual transactions or suspicious activity
- Compliance issues or risk concerns
If you feel this was a mistake, know that Varo's decision is generally final and not open to appeal. Once closed, the account can't be reopened, so you'll want to prepare for what's next quickly.
Make sure you update your payment info and watch for your refund check - it usually arrives within 14 days. For more on handling funds after closure, check out the section on 'what happens to my money after closure.'
5 Common Reasons Varo Shuts Down Accounts
Varo usually shuts down accounts for clear, specific reasons tied to protecting its users and the bank itself. Here are the 5 common causes you should know:
Security Concerns: If Varo spots suspicious or potentially fraudulent activity - like unusual transactions or hacking attempts - they act fast by closing accounts to stop damage.
Violation of User Agreement: Breaking terms, such as illegal transactions or prohibited uses, often triggers an immediate shutdown. Varo keeps exact details private but holds users accountable.
Multiple Accounts: Trying to open more than one Varo account violates their rules and can get all your accounts closed without warning.
Identity Issues: If Varo detects mismatched or fake identity info, or if you fail verification checks, your account can be shut down to comply with regulations.
Negative Balance or Problematic Payments: Accounts with unresolved negative balances or repeated bounced payments risk closure, as it signals financial instability.
When Varo closes your account, it's typically final with no appeal. Your best bet is to check the closure notice carefully and secure your funds quickly. Next, take a look at 'what happens to my money after closure' to understand your options moving forward.
Fraud Or Error: What If You Think Varo Made A Mistake?
If you think Varo made a mistake or flagged fraud in error, understand their closures are usually final with no appeals. Their decisions come after a thorough review meant to protect you and the bank. You won't get a detailed explanation because these reasons stay confidential to prevent abuse.
Still, here's what to do if you suspect an error:
- Check your account notifications carefully for any clues.
- Confirm your contact info is up to date to get any refund via check.
- Contact Varo's customer support to express concerns, but expect limited options.
Since you can't reverse the closure, focus on securing your funds and moving on. Varo sends back your remaining balance by mail within about two weeks. Meanwhile, set up new banking arrangements to avoid payment hiccups.
Next, explore 'what happens to my money after closure' for clear info on recovering your funds smoothly.
What Happens To My Money After Closure?
When your Varo account closes, any money left in it doesn't vanish - it gets sent back to you as a check. This check is mailed to the address you had on file, so keeping that updated before the closure matters big time. You won't get an ACH deposit or a direct bank transfer once the account shuts down; it's strictly a mailed check.
Expect it to take up to 14 days for Varo to process and send out your money after closure. No fees come out of your balance for this refund - it's your full remaining amount. If you haven't updated your address or the check gets lost, that's when things get complicated and you'll need to reach out to Varo's support to sort it out.
Keep in mind, once the account closes, you can't access the funds online or through an app anymore. So, watch your mailbox and update your info before closure. For the next steps on tracking the timeline, check out 'how long until I get my money back?' to stay ahead of any delays and keep things smooth.
How Long Until I Get My Money Back?
You'll usually get your money back from Varo within 14 days after your account closes. That's how long they take to process your final balance and mail you a refund check to the address on file. No direct transfers or instant refunds here - just a paper check cruising through the postal service.
Make sure Varo has your current mailing address. If your address is outdated, your refund might get delayed or lost. And heads up: if your account had any negative balance, those situations get trickier and could affect your refund timing. You can keep an eye on your mailbox but expect at least two weeks before seeing that check land.
If the wait leaves you hanging, check out the 'what happens to my money after closure?' section for more on Varo's refund process. Knowing the timeline in advance helps you plan your next banking steps without stress.
What If My Account Had A Negative Balance?
If your Varo account shows a negative balance when it closes, you'll still owe that amount to the bank. This happens if you spent or withdrew more than your available funds before the closure. You should expect Varo to contact you about repaying this debt, as they won't just write it off.
First, review your recent transactions to confirm what caused the shortfall. Often, pending payments or fees clear after you think you had enough money. Then, contact Varo's support to discuss repayment options and avoid additional fees or collections.
Be aware: negative balances can lead to overdraft fees or impact your credit if debt collections go forward. Paying off the negative balance promptly stops things from escalating. You might also want to set a payment plan or negotiate terms directly with Varo.
To move forward, focus on settling what you owe and find a new bank account to avoid similar issues. For help managing your direct deposits or bills after closure, check the section on 'direct deposits and bill payments: what now?' - that will keep your finances steady during this transition.
Can I Appeal A Varo Account Closure?
No, you generally cannot appeal a Varo account closure. Varo makes these decisions final to protect both the bank and its users, mainly based on their review of your account activity and compliance with their User Agreement. They don't offer an official appeal process because these closures typically result from serious concerns like security or policy violations.
If you think there's been a mistake, your best bet is to contact Varo support to clarify your situation, but don't expect a reversal. Once your account closes, it's closed for good - no reopening or appeals. Keep in mind, Varo will send any leftover funds to your address, so double-check your info there to avoid delays.
Bottom line: Varo's closure decisions stick. Make sure you move your direct deposits and payments elsewhere quickly - check out 'direct deposits and bill payments: what now?' for the next steps.
Can I Reopen My Closed Varo Account?
You cannot reopen a closed Varo account. Once you or Varo shut it down, it's done for good - there's no reactivation or reopening option available. Varo's closures are final, mostly due to security policies and their user agreement.
If you need access to funds, Varo will mail a check to the address on file within about two weeks. Make sure your mailing address is up to date before you closed your account to avoid delays. Meanwhile, update your direct deposits and bill payments to prevent hiccups.
For next steps, consider checking out '7 alternatives to Varo for your next bank' to find a fresh start that suits your needs. This moves you forward instead of trying to revive a closed chapter.
Direct Deposits And Bill Payments: What Now?
Once your Varo account closes, you must promptly update your direct deposits and bill payments with your new bank info. If you keep the old info linked, payments can bounce or get lost big headache. Start by contacting your employer for direct deposit changes and any recurring payers for scheduled bills.
Next, review automatic payments you set through Varo. Cancel or switch them directly with the merchants or service providers, since Varo can't process transactions on a closed account. This step prevents overdrafts or missed payments.
Also, confirm Varo has your current mailing address so you receive the refund check safely. While waiting, consider setting up alerts with your new bank to track incoming deposits and outgoing bills.
Bottom line: act fast, update your payment details everywhere, and watch your mail. This avoids surprises and keeps your cash flowing. For managing leftover payments, also peek at 'how to cancel scheduled payments after closure' - it's the next crucial step.
How To Cancel Scheduled Payments After Closure
Once your Varo account is closed, scheduled payments linked to that account won't process, but you need to actively cancel those payments yourself with each merchant or biller. Since Varo no longer handles transactions, calling or visiting the websites of companies where you've set up auto-pay is the fastest way to stop payments. Have your account details or user IDs handy for quick identification. If the payments were through apps or third-party services like PayPal, cancel them there too.
Don't rely on the closure to halt payments completely. Sometimes, merchants try to debit anyway, leading to bounced transactions or missed bills. Double-check all your recurring payments - utilities, subscriptions, loans, or memberships - and switch them to your new bank account as soon as possible to avoid late fees or service interruptions. If you use bill-pay services outside Varo, update those as well to prevent confusion.
Bottom line: You're in control of shutting down all scheduled payments after Varo closes your account. Act now, directly through each payee. If you haven't already, see 'direct deposits and bill payments: what now?' next for tips on rerouting your payments and deposits. It's all about staying ahead so nothing slips through the cracks.
Updating Your Address Before Varo Sends Your Check
To get your refund check from Varo without delays, update your mailing address immediately through the app or website before they send it out. Varo will mail your check to the last address they have on file, so a wrong or outdated address means reroutes or lost mail.
If you already closed your account, check your profile settings or contact Varo support right away to confirm or change your address. Time is tight since checks typically go out within two weeks after closure.
Remember, Varo cannot change the address once the check is mailed, so acting fast is crucial. Keep your contact info current to avoid the hassle of missing funds.
Next, make sure to review 'what happens to my money after closure?' for more on handling your refund smoothly.
What To Do If Your Check Never Arrives
If your refund check from Varo never arrives, start by confirming your mailing address on file - an outdated address means your check might be lost. Next, reach out to Varo support to report the missing check and ask if it was sent. They may require you to file a trace or request a stop payment on the original check to avoid fraud.
While waiting, keep in mind processing can take up to 14 days. If your check still hasn't turned up, ask Varo for instructions on getting a replacement. Be patient but persistent - missing checks do happen, but Varo's team can guide you through next steps to get your money safely.
Don't forget to check the 'updating your address before varo sends your check' section next to avoid this hassle in the future. That's where you'll find tips to ensure your refund gets to you the first time, no surprises.
7 Alternatives To Varo For Your Next Bank
Looking for 7 alternatives to Varo for your next bank? Here's a quick run-through of solid options that won't leave you hanging when you need access, security, and real perks.
Chime offers straightforward no-fee banking, early direct deposit, and helpful savings tools. It's perfect if you want a smooth mobile experience without the annoying hidden fees.
Ally Bank shines with its high-interest savings accounts and no monthly fees. Plus, their customer service and easy-to-use app make managing money painless.
SoFi Money mixes spending and saving with perks like cash rewards and no account minimums. It's a neat pick if you want investment options tied right to your money.
Current is ideal for real-time spending alerts and early paycheck access. If you want ultra-fast access to funds and kid-friendly accounts, this one delivers.
Simple, though recently merged with BBVA, still offers budgeting tools and user-friendly apps. If budgeting with your bank sounds good, check what BBVA's version brings now.
Aspiration focuses on socially conscious banking with no hidden fees and rewards for eco-friendly spending. It's a solid match if you want your bank to align with your values.
NBKC Bank gives you full FDIC insurance, no fees, and unlimited ATM reimbursements nationwide. It fits if you hate fees and want easy cash access anywhere.
Each of these banks offers a distinct angle - whether it's better savings, user experience, or your values. Switching means updating your deposits and bills ASAP to avoid hiccups, as we cover in 'direct deposits and bill payments: what now?'. Choose wisely to keep your money moving smoothly.

"Thank you for the advice. I am very happy with the work you are doing. The credit people have really done an amazing job for me and my wife. I can't thank you enough for taking a special interest in our case like you have. I have received help from at least a half a dozen people over there and everyone has been so nice and helpful. You're a great company."
GUSS K. New Jersey