Most banks are open on the Friday after Thanksgiving, but hours are often shorter than usual

The Friday after Thanksgiving is not a federal holiday, so most banks operate that day. However, many banks reduce their hours or close branches entirely. Some open at 10 a.m. instead of 9 a.m., or close at 4 p.m. instead of 5 or 6 p.m. A few large banks stay fully closed on that Friday as a company-wide policy, though this is less common than shortened hours.

The safest approach is to check your specific bank's hours before you go. Call the branch directly, check the bank's website, or use their mobile app — most apps show real-time hours for each location. Do not assume your branch keeps the same hours as the main branch downtown or as other branches in your area; hours vary by location.

Key Takeaways

  • The Friday after Thanksgiving is a business day, so most banks are open, but many run on reduced hours.
  • Call your branch or check your bank's website to confirm hours before you visit, because hours vary by location and by bank.
  • If you need cash or services that day, plan to go early in the morning, as some branches close by mid-afternoon.
  • ATMs and mobile banking work normally on Friday after Thanksgiving, even if the branch is closed or has limited hours.

How to find your bank's hours for that specific Friday

Most banks publish holiday hours on their website several weeks in advance. Go to your bank's main website and look for "Hours" or "Holiday Hours" — this section usually lists any changes for the entire year. Some banks also send email notifications to customers about holiday schedule changes.

If you cannot find the information online, call your branch directly. The branch phone number is on your debit card, on your bank statements, or in the bank's app. Ask whether they are open on the Friday after Thanksgiving and what time they close. This takes two minutes and removes all doubt.

Google Maps also shows bank hours. Search for your bank name and branch location, and Google will display current and holiday hours if the branch has updated that information. However, not all branches keep this data current, so a phone call is more reliable.

What to do if your branch is closed or has limited hours

ATMs work 24 hours a day, even when the branch is closed. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and transfer money between your own accounts using any ATM in your bank's network. If you need to use an out-of-network ATM, you may pay a fee, so stick to your bank's machines if possible.

Mobile banking and online banking also work normally. You can pay bills, transfer money, deposit checks by phone camera, and handle most routine tasks without visiting a branch. If you need to speak to someone, most banks offer phone support on Friday after Thanksgiving, even if branches are closed.

If you need a service that requires a teller — such as ordering a cashier's check, reporting a lost card, or opening a new account — and your branch is closed, you have two options. You can visit a different branch that is open, or you can wait until Monday. Many banks allow you to order cashier's checks online or through the app, which removes the need to visit in person.

Which banks typically close or reduce hours on that Friday

Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citibank usually keep branches open on the Friday after Thanksgiving, but with shorter hours. Credit unions vary widely — some close entirely, others keep normal hours. Community banks and smaller regional banks are more likely to close on that Friday.

The best way to know is to check your own bank's policy rather than guessing based on the bank's size. A small local bank might stay open all day, while a large national chain might close one branch but keep another open two blocks away.

Planning ahead if you need banking services that day

If you know you will need to visit a branch on the Friday after Thanksgiving, handle it early in the week instead. Deposit checks, withdraw cash, or complete any transactions on Wednesday or Thursday when all branches are definitely open and running full hours.

If you must wait until Friday, go early — before 11 a.m. if possible. Branches that are open often have longer lines on that day because fewer locations are operating, and staff may be working reduced shifts. Going early means shorter waits and a better chance of completing your task before the branch closes early.

For time-sensitive needs like reporting a lost or stolen card, do not wait. Call your bank's customer service line immediately, even on Thanksgiving Day itself. Card fraud support operates 24/7 at most banks, regardless of branch hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check on Friday after Thanksgiving if the branch is closed?

Yes. Most banks let you deposit checks through their mobile app by taking a photo of the front and back. You can also deposit at an ATM if your bank offers that service. Both methods work even when the branch is closed, though the funds may not appear in your account until the following Monday.

Will I be charged fees if I use an out-of-network ATM on that Friday?

Yes, if your bank charges out-of-network fees, you will pay them on Friday just as you would any other day. The day of the week does not change fee policies. Use an ATM in your bank's network to avoid the charge.

What if I need a cashier's check and the branch is closed?

Many banks let you order a cashier's check online or through the mobile app, and you can pick it up the next business day or have it mailed. Call your bank to ask whether this option is available. If not, you will need to visit a branch that is open on Friday or wait until Monday.

Do credit unions have the same hours as banks on that Friday?

No. Credit unions set their own hours independently. Some close on the Friday after Thanksgiving, others stay open with normal hours, and some reduce hours. Contact your credit union directly to find out.

Is the Friday after Thanksgiving a federal holiday for banks?

No. It is a business day. The federal holidays that close banks are New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. The day after Thanksgiving is not on that list.