How to Delete a Public.com Account
If you have a brokerage account with Public.com that you don’t use anymore, it’s a good idea to close it to prevent unauthorized access. Here’s how to do it:
Closing Public Account by Liquidation
There are two ways to close an account at Public.com. The first is to sell everything, withdraw the cash, and then request the account be closed.
To start, log into your account and sell all investments. This includes stocks, cryptocurrencies, fine art—everything must be sold. You can also transfer stocks (but not crypto or alternative assets) in a partial transfer and leave cash in the account. The goal is to bring the account down to cash only.
Once the account only holds cash, you need to withdraw it. You can withdraw by ACH, paper check, or wire. To link a bank account for ACH or wire, go to the website, click on your account name in the upper-right corner, then select settings and privacy. On the next page, click on funding methods under the Account tab. Here, you can add an external bank account.
Under the Transfers tab (just below the Account tab), you’ll find a withdraw link. Click this to move cash out of your account.
The mobile app works the same way. After logging in, tap the three horizontal lines in the upper-left corner and choose account settings. You’ll find the same links there as on the website.
When the account is at zero, check to make sure there are no pending deposits. If not, you can request account closure.
In the account settings menu (on the website or app), there is a link to close the account. Click or tap this link. The system will check that all positions are closed, no deposits are pending, and the balance is $0. If everything is correct, the account will close.
Broker Promotions
If you are opening a new investment account or are moving your Public account to another company,
check if the new firm offers promotions for opening an account.
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Closing Public Account by Full ACATS Transfer
A partial transfer to move stocks out won’t close the account—you still need to request closure. If you prefer to avoid this extra step, you can do a full transfer to another broker. This will move everything and automatically close the Public account. This option requires opening an account at the other brokerage, but it avoids selling your investments.
Only stocks and cash can be moved through the ACATS network. Cryptocurrencies and alternative assets must be moved to another Public account.
To do a full ACATS transfer from Public, contact the new brokerage and request the transfer.
Cost of Closing Public Account
Public.com charges $75 for an outgoing ACATS transfer, whether partial or full. The first method can also have costs. While closing an account itself is free, Public charges for instant withdrawals, outgoing wires, and overnight checks. Charles Schwab will reimburse this fee if you transfer an account worth $7,500 or more to them.
Updated on 9/24/2025.
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