In a significant move, BBVA México has announced the ongoing process of mass account cancellations throughout 2025 as part of its adherence to the Law for Transparency and Ordering of Financial Services. This major decision aims to enhance the efficiency and security of banking services while optimizing their resource management.
Starting from January 17, 2025, BBVA México has already begun to cancel accounts that have shown no movement for three consecutive months and maintain a zero balance. This policy aligns with regulations intended to keep financial institutions’ databases up to date and ensures that banks offer optimized services to their customers.
The institution has officially released a timeline for the cancellations spread across the entire year, marking specific dates for closure based on account inactivity. Customers need to be aware that affected accounts will be evaluated according to these cut-off dates, presenting an opportunity for account holders to take necessary action prior to cancellation.
The closure schedule for accounts at BBVA México in 2025 is as follows:
- April 18: Accounts inactive since January, February, and March.
- May 16: Accounts inactive from February, March, and April.
- June 20: Accounts inactive from March, April, and May.
- July 18: Accounts inactive from April, May, and June.
- August 15: Accounts inactive from May, June, and July.
- September 19: Accounts inactive from June, July, and August.
- October 17: Accounts inactive from July, August, and September.
- November 21: Accounts inactive from August, September, and October.
- December 19: Accounts inactive from September, October, and November.
This structured timeline allows clients to remain vigilant and engage with their accounts, thereby preventing unexpected cancellations of their services. BBVA Mexico emphasizes it has not yet clarified whether individual notifications will be sent to account holders facing the risk of cancellation.
The types of accounts eligible for cancellation include a variety of products: El Libretón, Mi Despensa, Membresía BP, Link Card (formerly Winner Card), Maestra PyME BBVA, Libretón 2.0, Libretón Premium, Solución Personal, Tarjeta de Pagos, Contigo BBVA, Maestra Particulares, Envíos de Dinero, Cuenta Express, Libretón Dólares, and several others.
For account holders concerned about potential cancellations, BBVA recommends taking proactive measures by verifying account status and executing at least one transaction—such as a transfer or withdrawal—to ensure account activity remains consistent. Regular interaction with accounts is not only beneficial in preventing cancellations but also vital for meeting broader financial obligations.
In light of these significant changes, both current and potential BBVA Mexico clients are encouraged to inform their family members about existing accounts and the procedures for accessing funds, especially in the event of the account holder’s passing. This conversation ensures that financial management stays within the family, enhancing transparency and accessibility.
As a broader reflection, BBVA Mexico's account cancellation strategy mirrors global trends in banking where institutions are increasingly adopting measures to optimize services and comply with regulatory frameworks. In addition to Mexico, the practice of account closures due to inactivity is not unique; similar policies exist in various countries.
Drawing from insights shared by Juan José Marthans, an expert at PAD-Escuela de Dirección de la Universidad de Piura, the potential for similar measures in Peru has been noted despite the differing scale. Marthans highlighted that the Framework for the Financial System in Peru does indeed outline procedures for dealing with inactive accounts, signifying that these practices are rooted in a universal approach to banking.
According to Peruvian regulations, if bank accounts remain inactive for ten years, funds can be transferred to the Deposit Insurance Fund. Furthermore, if accounts are inactive for over twelve months, they are subject to blocking. Such laws underscore the importance of institutions maintaining clear communication with account holders.
The array of measures employed by BBVA demonstrates a commitment not only to regulatory compliance but also to customer education. Ensuring clients are informed about policies surrounding account activity, reactivation, and closure is fundamental in navigating the evolving landscape of banking today.
Well-informed customers who actively monitor their accounts are more likely to maintain good standing and avoid any disruptions in their banking relationships. As BBVA and other institutions continue reinforcing these practices, customers must engage with their accounts consistently.
With the larger context revealed, it becomes clear that BBVA Mexico’s strategy towards account cancellations serves as an important reminder for customers everywhere to keep their banking habits proactive and engaged. Such practices not only support institutional efficiency but also protect customers’ financial health.