Bank holidays are more than just days off for bank employees. They can delay your direct deposit, push back bill payments, and slow down transfers, which means the timing of your money may shift.
In the United States, bank holidays line up with federal holidays set by the Federal Reserve. On these days, most banks close their branches and pause certain transactions, though ATMs and online banking remain available.
Knowing when bank holidays fall helps you plan ahead—whether that means scheduling payments early, making cash withdrawals in advance, or adjusting expectations for when deposits will clear.
What Bank Holidays Mean for Your Money
A bank holiday is a federally recognized day when most banks and credit unions close their branches. In the U.S., these dates are set by the Federal Reserve and follow the official federal holiday calendar.
While banks pause in-person services on these days, you can still use ATMs, debit and credit cards, and online banking. The main difference is that transactions such as direct deposits, check clearances, wire transfers, and ACH payments do not process until the next business day.
Planning ahead—by scheduling bill payments early or knowing when deposits will arrive—can help you avoid delays or late fees.
Official Bank Holidays in the United States
The Federal Reserve sets the official bank holidays in the U.S. Most banks close their branches on these dates, and transactions are delayed until the next business day. Here’s the full list and what each holiday represents:
New Year’s Day
January 1 marks the start of the new year. It’s a day of reflection, fresh starts, and celebration across the country.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Observed on the third Monday in January, this holiday honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his role in advancing civil rights.
Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday)
Falling on the third Monday in February, this day began as a tribute to George Washington but has become a time to honor all U.S. presidents.
Memorial Day
Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day honors military personnel who lost their lives in service to the nation.
Juneteenth National Independence Day
Celebrated on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States in 1865.
Independence Day
July 4 marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It’s a day of patriotic celebrations, fireworks, and family gatherings.
Labor Day
Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day recognizes the contributions of American workers.
Columbus Day
Falling on the second Monday in October, Columbus Day marks Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492.
Veterans Day
Observed on November 11, Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans for their service.
Thanksgiving Day
Celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather and give thanks.
Christmas Day
December 25 is celebrated as Christmas, a religious holiday for many and a cultural holiday marked by giving and family traditions.
What If a Bank Holiday Falls on a Weekend?
When a federal holiday lands on a Saturday, most banks close the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, banks close the following Monday. This ensures employees still receive the day off and banking schedules remain consistent.
How Bank Holidays Affect Consumers
Bank holidays can change how and when your money moves. Here’s what to expect:
- Transaction delays: Check deposits, ACH transfers, and wire payments usually do not process until the next business day.
- Bill payments: If a due date falls on a holiday, your payment may not post until afterward. Paying early can help avoid late fees.
- Branch services: Physical bank locations close, so you won’t be able to meet with staff or access items like safety deposit boxes.
- Online banking: You can still check balances, move money between accounts, and pay bills online, but settlement of funds may be delayed.
- Customer support: Phone lines and chat services may have reduced hours or be unavailable. Most banks direct customers to online help resources.
How to Plan Ahead for Bank Holidays
A little preparation can help you avoid money headaches around bank holidays:
- Schedule payments early: Make bill payments before the holiday to avoid delays or late fees.
- Confirm payroll timing: Check with your employer to see if your direct deposit date will shift.
- Withdraw cash if needed: ATMs work on holidays, but some may run low on cash during long weekends.
- Avoid last-minute transfers: ACH transfers and wires won’t process until the next business day.
- Use online banking: You can still manage accounts, move money, and check balances even when branches are closed.
Final Thoughts
Bank holidays may pause certain financial activities, but with a little planning they don’t have to disrupt your money management. Knowing the official dates and how they affect transactions gives you the chance to schedule payments, plan for deposits, and avoid unnecessary delays.
By keeping an eye on the calendar and preparing ahead of time, you can enjoy the break that bank holidays bring while keeping your finances on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all banks closed on bank holidays?
Most banks follow the federal holiday schedule and close their branches. Some smaller banks and credit unions may keep limited hours, so it’s best to check your bank’s specific holiday schedule in advance.
Can I still use ATMs on a bank holiday?
Yes, ATMs remain available on bank holidays. You can withdraw cash, check balances, and make deposits, though any deposits made may not post until the next business day.
Do bank holidays affect direct deposits?
Yes, bank holidays can delay direct deposits. If your payday or benefit payment falls on a holiday, the deposit will usually post on the next business day.
Do debit and credit card purchases work on bank holidays?
Yes, you can still use your debit and credit cards for purchases. Transactions will go through, but the settlement of funds may be delayed until the banks reopen.
Are wire transfers and ACH payments processed on bank holidays?
No, wire transfers and ACH payments do not process on bank holidays. Any transfer scheduled on a holiday will be sent the next business day.
Do bank holidays affect payroll deposits for businesses?
Yes, bank holidays can shift payroll schedules. If payday falls on a holiday, direct deposits usually arrive on the next business day. Many employers process payroll a day earlier to make sure employees are paid on time.
