Most Massachusetts banks are closed on Patriots Day, but some branches may have limited hours

Patriots Day falls on the third Monday in May each year. On this day, most banks in Massachusetts close entirely because it is a state holiday. However, the closure rules depend on whether your bank is a state-chartered institution, a national bank, or a credit union — and whether it observes the holiday as a business closure or simply as a day when federal services are unavailable.

If you need to handle banking on or around Patriots Day, plan ahead. ATMs and online banking remain available during closures, but teller services, loan officers, and customer service phone lines typically shut down. Some larger banks may open a few branches with reduced hours, though this is uncommon in Massachusetts.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Massachusetts banks close completely on Patriots Day because it is a state holiday, though ATMs and online banking stay open.
  • National banks must close on Patriots Day, while state-chartered banks and credit unions usually do but may have different policies.
  • The best way to confirm your specific bank's hours is to call the branch directly or check their website a few days before the holiday.
  • If you need cash or to make a deposit, use your bank's ATM or mobile app before the holiday to avoid delays.

When Patriots Day closures happen and which banks are affected

Patriots Day is observed on the third Monday of May. In 2024, that date is May 20. In 2025, it falls on May 19. Massachusetts is one of only a few states that recognizes Patriots Day as a paid holiday, marking the start of the American Revolution in 1775.

National banks — those chartered by the federal government and marked with "National" or "N.A." in their name — must close on Patriots Day because it is a federal holiday in Massachusetts. State-chartered banks and credit unions typically close as well, though they are not legally required to do so. Most choose to close because their employees observe the holiday.

Banks that do remain open on Patriots Day usually operate with skeleton crews and limited branch access. You should not assume your branch will be open; instead, confirm directly with your bank before the holiday.

How to learn about your specific bank is open

The fastest way to learn your bank's Patriots Day hours is to call the branch directly. Most banks post holiday hours on their websites and in their mobile apps at least one week in advance. Search for "[Your Bank Name] Patriots Day hours" or "[Your Bank Name] May 20 hours" to find this information quickly.

If you cannot reach anyone by phone, check the bank's website for a holiday schedule or contact page. Many banks list all observed holidays and their corresponding closures in one place. Credit unions often post this information on their member portal or in their FAQ section.

Do not rely on Google Maps or third-party business directories for holiday hours — these sources are often outdated. Go directly to your bank's official website or call the branch.

What you can still do when your bank is closed

ATMs remain operational during bank closures, so you can withdraw cash, deposit checks (if your ATM has a deposit slot), and check your balance at any time. Most modern ATMs accept mobile check deposits through your bank's app, which processes overnight or by the next business day.

Online banking and mobile apps work 24/7, even on holidays. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, set up automatic payments, and send money to other people through services like Zelle or your bank's peer-to-peer transfer tool.

If you need to speak with a customer service representative, most banks offer phone support on holidays, though wait times are often longer. Check your bank's website to see if they staff a holiday hotline.

Planning ahead to avoid Patriots Day banking delays

If you know you will need cash, make a deposit, or handle a time-sensitive transaction, do it the business day before Patriots Day. Friday before the holiday is the safest choice because it gives you a full day to resolve any issues.

Checks deposited on Patriots Day itself will not clear until the following business day (Tuesday), so do not count on same-day availability. If you are expecting a deposit or payment, assume it will arrive on Tuesday or later.

For loan applications, mortgage questions, or other services that require a person, schedule an appointment for the day after Patriots Day. Banks often have a backlog of requests after a holiday, so calling early Tuesday morning may mean a longer wait.

Refunds and government payments on Patriots Day

If you are waiting for a tax refund, stimulus payment, or other government deposit, Patriots Day does not change the deposit date itself — the money still arrives on the scheduled day. However, if that day falls on Patriots Day, the deposit will post the next business day instead.

Check your bank's deposit schedule in your online account or mobile app. Most banks show pending deposits with their expected arrival date. If a deposit is scheduled for Patriots Day, it will typically show as arriving on Tuesday instead.

Direct deposits from employers, Social Security, or other recurring sources follow the same rule: if the deposit date lands on a holiday, it posts the next business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my ATM work on Patriots Day?

Yes. ATMs operate 24/7 on holidays, including Patriots Day. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and deposit checks (if your ATM has a deposit slot) at any time. Mobile check deposits through your bank's app also work on the holiday and process overnight.

Can I pay bills or transfer money on Patriots Day?

Yes, through online banking and your mobile app. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and send money to other people any time, including holidays. However, the transaction may not process until the next business day depending on the type of transfer.

What if I need to speak to someone at my bank on Patriots Day?

Most banks close their branches on Patriots Day, but some offer phone support through a holiday hotline. Call your bank's main number to see if customer service is available. Wait times are usually longer on holidays. For urgent matters, try calling early in the morning.

Will my paycheck deposit on time if it is scheduled for Patriots Day?

No. Direct deposits scheduled for Patriots Day will post the next business day (Tuesday). Check your bank's deposit schedule in your online account to confirm the new arrival date. If you need the money urgently, contact your employer to ask if they can move the deposit date.

Do all Massachusetts banks close on Patriots Day?

Most do, but not all. National banks must close. State-chartered banks and credit unions usually close but may have different policies. Call your specific bank or check their website to confirm their hours before the holiday.