Most major banks close on Columbus Day, but some branches and online services stay available
Yes, most banks close on Columbus Day (the second Monday in October). The Federal Reserve, which sets the standard for federal holidays, recognizes Columbus Day as a banking holiday. This means Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most other national banks shut their physical branches on that day.
However, "closed" does not mean you cannot access your money. ATMs work 24/7 regardless of the holiday. Online banking, mobile apps, and phone customer service often remain available. Some regional banks and credit unions do not observe Columbus Day, so their branches stay open. The only way to know for certain is to check with your specific bank before the holiday.
Key Takeaways
- Major national banks including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank close their physical branches on Columbus Day, but ATMs remain accessible.
- Online banking, mobile apps, and automated phone services typically work on Columbus Day even when branches are closed.
- Some regional banks and credit unions do not observe Columbus Day and may keep branches open — call ahead to confirm.
- If you need to deposit a check or withdraw cash, use an ATM or visit the day before or after the holiday.
What stays open on Columbus Day
ATMs are the most reliable option. Every major bank's ATM network runs around the clock on holidays. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, transfer money between accounts, and deposit checks (if your bank offers mobile deposit or ATM check deposit) without stepping into a branch.
Online and mobile banking work normally. You can pay bills, transfer funds, check transactions, and manage your account through your bank's website or app. Customer service phone lines often stay staffed, though wait times may be longer than usual. Some banks offer limited phone support on holidays; others offer full service. Call your bank's customer service number before the holiday to ask what hours they keep on Columbus Day.
Wire transfers and ACH transfers (electronic transfers between banks) process on schedule. If you initiate a wire transfer on Columbus Day, it will go through, though it may not settle until the next business day depending on the time you send it.
What closes and when it reopens
Physical branch locations close entirely on Columbus Day. You cannot walk in to speak with a teller, deposit cash, or access a safe deposit box. Branches reopen the next business day (Tuesday, if Columbus Day falls on Monday) at their normal opening time, usually 9 a.m.
If you need to deposit cash or access a safe deposit box, plan ahead. Deposit cash the day before the holiday, or wait until the day after. If you have a time-sensitive need — such as needing to access documents in a safe deposit box — call your branch before the holiday to see if they can help you arrange early access.
Banks that may stay open on Columbus Day
Some regional and community banks do not observe Columbus Day. Examples include certain credit unions, local banks, and some online-only banks. If your bank is not a major national chain, contact them directly to ask whether they close on Columbus Day.
Online banks (those with no physical branches) typically do not "close" in the traditional sense, but they may have reduced customer service hours. Check your bank's website or call their support line to confirm holiday hours.
How to plan ahead for Columbus Day
If you know you will need cash or need to make a deposit, handle it the business day before Columbus Day. Withdraw extra cash from an ATM on Friday or Monday (depending on which day Columbus Day falls). Deposit checks through mobile deposit or an ATM deposit slot before the holiday if your bank offers these services.
If you have a time-sensitive transaction — such as a wire transfer that needs to clear by a certain date — initiate it before Columbus Day. Call your bank to confirm when it will settle, since transactions initiated on a holiday may not process until the next business day.
What to do if you need banking services on Columbus Day
Use an ATM for cash withdrawals and deposits (if available). Check your account and pay bills through online banking or your mobile app. Call customer service if you have questions about your account — many banks keep phone lines open even when branches close.
If you need to speak with someone in person, wait until the day after Columbus Day. If your need is truly urgent (such as a fraudulent charge or a locked account), call your bank's customer service line. They can often resolve issues over the phone or flag your account for immediate attention when the branch reopens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Columbus Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any ATM and at any merchant, regardless of whether your bank's branch is open. The only limitation is that you cannot withdraw cash from a teller or make deposits at a branch counter.
Will my direct deposit hit my account on Columbus Day?
Direct deposits scheduled for Columbus Day may arrive on that day or may be delayed until the next business day, depending on your employer's payroll system and your bank's processing schedule. Contact your employer's payroll department or your bank to confirm the exact timing.
What if I need to access my safe deposit box on Columbus Day?
Safe deposit boxes are only accessible during branch hours. If you need access on or around Columbus Day, call your branch before the holiday to ask if they can arrange early access or if you can retrieve items the day before.
Do credit unions close on Columbus Day?
Most credit unions close on Columbus Day, but not all. Some credit unions do not observe federal holidays. Contact your credit union directly to ask about their Columbus Day hours.
Can I still pay my bills on Columbus Day?
Yes. You can pay bills through online banking, your mobile app, or automatic bill pay on Columbus Day. If you mail a check, it will arrive after the holiday, so plan accordingly if you have a due date close to Columbus Day.