How to learn about today is a bank holiday
The fastest way to check is to call your bank directly or log into your online banking account — most banks display holiday closures on their homepage or in the account settings. If your bank is closed today, you will see a message saying so before you try to conduct a transaction. The Federal Reserve publishes the official list of federal bank holidays each year, but not all banks observe every federal holiday, and some banks add their own closures on top of the federal list.
If you need to know right now whether a specific bank is open, a phone call is the most reliable method. Most banks have an automated system that tells you holiday hours before connecting you to a person. You can also check the bank's website — nearly all major banks post their holiday schedule in the "Hours" or "Contact Us" section.
Key Takeaways
- Federal bank holidays are set by the Federal Reserve, but individual banks decide whether to close on each one.
- Your bank's website or mobile app will show whether it is closed today under the Hours or Locations section.
- Some banks close on federal holidays but remain open on state-specific holidays, and some do the opposite.
- If you need to deposit a check or transfer money today and your bank is closed, most banks process transactions the next business day.
- Credit unions and online banks may have different holiday schedules than traditional banks.
The federal bank holiday list
The Federal Reserve recognizes ten federal holidays when most traditional banks close: New Year's Day, Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. These dates are fixed each year, though the day of the week changes.
However, a bank closing on a federal holiday is not automatic. Some regional banks, credit unions, and online banks stay open on certain federal holidays or close on different days. A few banks close on state holidays that are not federal holidays — for example, some banks in Texas close on Texas Independence Day even though it is not a federal holiday.
Where to find your specific bank's holiday schedule
The most direct source is your bank's official website. Look for a link labeled "Hours," "Locations," "Holiday Hours," or "Contact Us." Most banks publish their full-year holiday schedule there, and many update it if an emergency closure happens.
If you use mobile banking, open your app and look for a "Locations" or "Branches" tab — many apps show whether your nearest branch is open today. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your debit card; the automated system usually tells you holiday status before offering to connect you to a representative.
For credit unions, check your credit union's website or call the branch directly. Online banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover typically process transactions on federal holidays but may not have phone support available.
What happens if you try to make a transaction on a bank holiday
If you deposit a check, transfer money, or withdraw cash at an ATM on a day your bank is closed, the transaction will usually process the next business day. ATMs remain open even when bank branches close, so you can withdraw cash or check your balance 24/7. However, transfers between banks and check deposits made at ATMs may take an extra day to clear.
If you need money urgently and your bank is closed, an ATM withdrawal is your fastest option. If you need to speak to someone at the bank, you will have to wait until the next business day.
Differences between banks and credit unions
Traditional banks and credit unions do not always follow the same holiday schedule. Most credit unions close on the same federal holidays as banks, but some smaller credit unions may stay open or close on different days. If you belong to a credit union, check their website or call ahead rather than assuming they follow the federal schedule.
Online banks have even more variation. Many online banks do not close on federal holidays because they do not have physical branches. Transactions may process normally, though customer service phone lines may be closed. Check your online bank's website for their specific holiday policy.
Planning ahead for bank holidays
If you know a bank holiday is coming and you need to make a time-sensitive transaction, plan for it the business day before. Deposit checks, make transfers, or withdraw cash before the holiday so you do not have to wait an extra day. This is especially important if you are paying a bill with a deadline or expecting a deposit you need immediately.
If you regularly need banking services on holidays, consider switching to an online bank or credit union that stays open, or set up automatic bill payments so you do not have to visit the bank in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my direct deposit hit my account on a bank holiday?
Direct deposits usually process on schedule even if the bank is closed, because the Federal Reserve processes them overnight. However, if the holiday falls on a Friday, your deposit may not appear until Monday. Check with your employer or the organization sending the deposit if you are unsure of the timing.
Can I use my debit card if the bank is closed today?
Yes. Debit cards work at ATMs and stores regardless of whether your bank branch is open. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and make purchases normally. The only thing you cannot do is speak to a bank representative in person or at the phone line.
Do online banks close on federal holidays?
Most online banks do not close on federal holidays because they have no physical branches. Transactions usually process normally, though customer service phone support may be unavailable. Check your specific bank's website to confirm their holiday hours.
What if I need to deposit a check today and the bank is closed?
If your bank has an ATM that accepts check deposits, you can deposit there and it will process the next business day. Otherwise, wait until the bank reopens. Mobile check deposit through your bank's app also works on holidays and processes the next business day.
Are state holidays the same as federal bank holidays?
No. State holidays vary by location, and banks do not always close on them. A bank in one state may close on a state holiday that banks in other states ignore. Check your specific bank's schedule rather than assuming a state holiday means the bank is closed.