What Holidays Do Banks Close for in the US?
Plan your finances around US bank holidays. Understand closure schedules, regional nuances, and available banking options during these times.
Bank branches in the United States routinely observe closures on certain days throughout the year. These closures primarily occur in observance of federal holidays, which are recognized by the Federal Reserve System. Understanding this schedule helps individuals plan their financial activities and anticipate when in-person banking services may be unavailable.
Understanding Federal Bank Holidays
The Federal Reserve System observes a specific set of federal holidays, and most banks across the nation typically follow this schedule for branch closures. These holidays include:
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (third Monday in January)
Washington’s Birthday, also known as Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February)
Memorial Day (last Monday of May), honoring fallen service members
Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19), marking the end of slavery
Independence Day (July 4), commemorating the Declaration of Independence
Labor Day (first Monday of September), celebrating the American labor movement
Columbus Day (second Monday in October, though some institutions may not observe it)
Veterans Day (November 11), honoring military veterans
Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
Christmas Day (December 25)
When any of these holidays fall on a Saturday, they are typically observed by banks on the preceding Friday. If they fall on a Sunday, they are usually observed on the following Monday.
Bank-Specific and Regional Closures
While the federal holiday schedule dictates most bank closures, some variations can occur. Larger national banks generally adhere closely to the Federal Reserve’s holiday calendar, but they might occasionally have specific internal policies that lead to minor deviations. It is always advisable to consult a bank’s official website or customer service for the most current information regarding their specific holiday hours.
Smaller regional banks and local credit unions may sometimes observe additional holidays specific to their state or locality. These could include state-specific holidays that are not federally recognized, such as a state’s admission day or a local historical observance. Due to these potential differences, customers should always verify holiday schedules directly with their specific financial institution.
Banking Options When Branches Are Closed
Even when physical bank branches are closed for holidays, customers still have several convenient options for managing their finances. Online banking portals provide comprehensive services accessible from any internet-enabled device. Through these platforms, individuals can check account balances, review transaction history, transfer funds between accounts, and pay bills. These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of branch operating hours.
Mobile banking applications offer similar functionalities, allowing users to perform banking tasks directly from their smartphones or tablets. Many mobile apps also include features like mobile check deposit, where users can deposit checks by simply taking a photo. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) remain operational on holidays, enabling cash withdrawals, balance inquiries, and sometimes cash or check deposits. These digital and automated alternatives ensure that essential banking needs can be met even when traditional branch services are temporarily unavailable.