How to learn about today is a banking holiday right now
The fastest way is to call your bank's customer service line or check their website — they list which offices are closed that day. If you need to know immediately, text your bank or log into your online account; most banks show holiday closures in the account dashboard or under "branch hours."
The Federal Reserve observes ten federal holidays each year, and most banks close on those days. However, some banks also close on additional holidays like Lincoln's Birthday or Juneteenth, depending on the bank's policy. A few banks stay open on certain federal holidays, so you cannot assume all banks are closed just because it is a federal holiday.
If you need to make a transaction today and your bank is closed, you can still use ATMs, mobile apps, and online banking. Deposits made through ATMs or mobile apps typically post the next business day.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank or check their website to confirm whether they are closed today — closure rules vary by bank.
- The Federal Reserve recognizes ten federal holidays, but individual banks may close on additional days or stay open on some federal holidays.
- ATMs and mobile banking work on banking holidays, though deposits and transfers may not post until the next business day.
- If you need cash or to make a time-sensitive payment, plan ahead by checking your bank's holiday schedule at the start of each month.
The ten federal holidays when most banks close
Banks typically close on New Year's Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January), Presidents' Day (third Monday in February), Memorial Day (last Monday in May), Juneteenth (June 19), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (first Monday in September), Columbus Day (second Monday in October), Veterans Day (November 11), and Christmas Day (December 25).
When a federal holiday falls on a Saturday, most banks close on Friday instead. When it falls on a Sunday, most banks close on Monday. However, this rule is not universal — some banks follow different observance rules, so check your bank's specific holiday calendar rather than assuming.
Banks that may stay open or have different holiday schedules
Online banks and credit unions sometimes stay open on federal holidays because they do not operate physical branches. If your bank is primarily digital, you can usually transfer money, pay bills, and deposit checks through your phone or computer even on a holiday.
Some regional banks and smaller institutions close on holidays that larger national banks do not observe. For example, a bank in a state that recognizes a state-specific holiday may close on that day even if the Federal Reserve does not. Always check your own bank's calendar rather than relying on a general list.
What you can and cannot do on a banking holiday
You can withdraw cash from ATMs, transfer money between your own accounts through mobile or online banking, deposit checks through mobile deposit, and pay bills online. These transactions process normally or post the next business day depending on the bank's system.
You cannot visit a branch to speak with a teller, get a cashier's check, open a new account in person, or resolve disputes that require a banker's help. Wire transfers initiated on a holiday typically do not send until the next business day. If you need a service that requires a branch, plan to visit the day before or after the holiday.
How to plan ahead for banking holidays
Most banks publish their full holiday schedule online by November of the previous year. Search "[Your Bank Name] holiday schedule" or look under "branch information" on their website. You can also call customer service and ask them to email or mail you the schedule.
If you have a time-sensitive payment or need cash, make the transaction one business day before the holiday. For example, if a holiday falls on Monday, complete your transaction on Friday. This buffer prevents delays and ensures your money moves when you need it.
Set a phone reminder on the first of each month to check your bank's website for upcoming holidays. Many people miss holiday closures because they assume the same schedule every year, but some holidays change dates annually.
What to do if you need banking services on a holiday
If you need to deposit a check, use mobile deposit through your bank's app — it works on holidays and posts the next business day. If you need cash, visit an ATM. If you need to pay a bill, use online bill pay or your creditor's website directly.
If your issue cannot wait until the next business day, call your bank's customer service line. Many banks staff phone lines on holidays for urgent problems like fraud or account lockouts, even if branches are closed. Have your account number and ID ready.
For wire transfers or other services that absolutely must happen on a holiday, some banks offer premium accounts or services that include holiday support. Ask your bank whether this option exists and what it costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all banks close on the same federal holidays?
Most banks close on the ten federal holidays the Federal Reserve observes, but some banks stay open on certain holidays or close on additional state or regional holidays. Call your bank or check their website to confirm their specific schedule.
Can I use my debit card on a banking holiday?
Yes. You can use your debit card at ATMs and at stores on a banking holiday. Transactions at stores post normally, and ATM withdrawals are available immediately. Transfers between accounts may not post until the next business day.
Will my direct deposit post on a banking holiday?
Direct deposits scheduled for a banking holiday typically post on the next business day instead. Check with your employer or the organization sending the deposit to confirm their exact schedule.
What if I need to deposit a check on a banking holiday?
Use mobile deposit through your bank's app if you have it — this works on holidays and the check posts the next business day. If you do not have mobile deposit, wait until the next business day to visit an ATM or branch.
Are credit unions closed on banking holidays?
Most credit unions close on federal holidays, but some stay open or have limited hours. Check your credit union's website or call them directly to confirm their holiday schedule.