Most major banks close on Columbus Day, but some branches and online services stay available
Columbus Day falls on the second Monday in October each year. Most large national banks—including Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank—close their physical branches on this federal holiday. However, online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs remain open and functional on Columbus Day at these institutions.
Smaller regional banks and credit unions vary. Some close entirely, while others keep select branches open or maintain normal hours. The safest approach is to contact your specific bank directly or check their website before Columbus Day to confirm branch hours.
If you need to deposit checks, withdraw cash, or handle transactions that require a teller, plan ahead. Most banks process deposits made at ATMs or through mobile apps on the holiday itself, though the funds may not post to your account until the next business day.
Key Takeaways
- Major national banks close physical branches on Columbus Day, but ATMs and online banking work normally throughout the holiday.
- Credit unions and regional banks have different policies—some close entirely while others remain open, so you need to check with your institution.
- Deposits made at ATMs or through mobile banking on Columbus Day typically post the next business day, not immediately.
- Wire transfers and ACH payments initiated on Columbus Day may not process until Tuesday if Monday is the holiday.
- Stock markets and bond markets close on Columbus Day, so investment transactions cannot be completed that day.
What happens to deposits and transfers on Columbus Day
If you deposit a check at an ATM on Columbus Day, the bank's system records the deposit that day, but the check does not clear until the next business day. The same applies to mobile deposits made through your bank's app. The transaction timestamp shows Columbus Day, but the funds become available on Tuesday.
Wire transfers and ACH payments (like bill payments or direct deposits) initiated on Columbus Day do not process until the next business day. If you need money to move by a specific date, initiate the transfer on Friday or the Thursday before the holiday. Some banks allow you to schedule transfers in advance, which can help you avoid delays.
Automatic bill payments and recurring transfers set up in advance continue on schedule. Your bank's system processes them overnight, even though the branch is closed. If a payment is due on Columbus Day itself, it typically posts on that day or the next, depending on your bank's processing schedule.
How to learn about your bank is open on Columbus Day
The fastest way is to search "[Your Bank Name] Columbus Day hours" or visit your bank's website directly. Most banks post holiday hours prominently on their homepage or in the branch locator tool. You can also call your local branch the Friday before to confirm Monday's status.
If you bank with a credit union, check your credit union's website or call the main office. Credit union policies vary widely—some observe all federal holidays, while others stay open on Columbus Day. The credit union's website usually lists holiday closures under "Hours" or "Locations."
For online-only banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Discover), branches do not exist, so the holiday does not affect access. You can log in, transfer money, and manage your account normally on Columbus Day. Customer service phone lines may have reduced staffing, but your account remains fully accessible.
Stock markets and investment accounts on Columbus Day
The New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ both close on Columbus Day. If you hold stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, you cannot buy or sell on the holiday. Any trade orders you place on Columbus Day are held and execute on Tuesday when the market reopens.
Investment apps and brokerage websites remain accessible on Columbus Day—you can view your portfolio and place orders—but those orders do not execute until the market opens on Tuesday. If you use a brokerage tied to a bank (like Bank of America's Merrill Edge or Wells Fargo Advisors), the brokerage side follows stock market hours, not bank hours.
Planning ahead to avoid Columbus Day delays
If you need cash on Columbus Day, withdraw it on Friday. ATMs work on the holiday, but if your account is low or you need a large amount, the ATM may not have sufficient funds available. Friday withdrawal eliminates this risk.
If you are expecting a direct deposit or payment on Columbus Day, it may arrive a day late. Payroll departments often process deposits the day before a federal holiday to account for bank closures, but some employers process on the holiday itself and accept the one-day delay. Check with your employer or the organization sending the payment if timing is critical.
For time-sensitive transactions—loan applications, mortgage payments, or large transfers—complete them by Friday. This ensures they process before the holiday and eliminates the risk of a missed deadline or late fee.
What stays open on Columbus Day
ATMs at your bank work 24/7, including Columbus Day. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and deposit checks at any ATM belonging to your bank or a partner network. Some ATMs charge a fee if you use a different bank's machine, so use your own bank's ATM when possible.
Online banking portals and mobile apps remain fully functional. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, deposit checks via mobile app, and view statements. The only limitation is that some transactions (like wire transfers) do not process until the next business day.
Customer service phone lines may have reduced staffing on Columbus Day. If you call your bank's main number, you may reach an automated system or a limited team. Email support typically responds the next business day. For urgent issues, use the bank's mobile app or website to handle what you can yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Columbus Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any merchant, ATM, or online retailer on Columbus Day. The bank branch being closed does not affect card transactions. Purchases post to your account normally, though some transactions may show as pending until the next business day.
Will my paycheck deposit be late if it arrives on Columbus Day?
Not necessarily. Many employers process payroll the day before a federal holiday so deposits arrive on Friday. If your employer processes on Columbus Day itself, the deposit typically posts on Tuesday. Check with your payroll department if you are unsure of their schedule.
What if I need to speak to someone at my bank on Columbus Day?
Call the main customer service number listed on your bank's website or card. You may reach an automated system or a limited team. For non-urgent issues, use online banking or email support. For emergencies (like fraud or a lost card), most banks have a 24/7 fraud line that operates on holidays.
Do credit card payments process on Columbus Day?
Payments you make on Columbus Day are recorded that day, but they do not post to your account until Tuesday. If your payment due date is Columbus Day, make the payment by Friday to avoid a late fee. Most credit card companies allow a grace period, but do not rely on it.
Can I get a cashier's check on Columbus Day?
No. Cashier's checks require a teller, and bank branches are closed on Columbus Day. If you need a cashier's check, visit your bank on Friday. Some banks allow you to order a cashier's check online in advance for pickup on the next business day.