December 24 is not a federal banking holiday, so most banks remain open

December 24 (Christmas Eve) is not recognized as a federal banking holiday by the Federal Reserve or the U.S. government. Banks are not required to close, and the vast majority stay open for at least part of the day. However, hours are often shortened, and some individual banks or credit unions may choose to close early or remain closed entirely based on their own policies.

The federal banking holidays are set by law and include New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day (December 25). December 24 does not appear on this list.

If you need to conduct banking business on Christmas Eve, check with your specific bank or credit union first. Many institutions publish their holiday hours in advance, either on their website, in a branch, or by calling customer service. This is especially important if you have time-sensitive transactions or need to withdraw cash before the actual holiday closes all branches.

Key Takeaways

  • December 24 is not a federal banking holiday, so banks are legally permitted to operate normally.
  • Most banks do open on Christmas Eve but often with reduced hours, closing earlier than usual.
  • Some individual banks or credit unions may close entirely on December 24 based on their own policies.
  • Check your bank's website or call ahead to confirm hours before visiting on Christmas Eve.
  • December 25 (Christmas Day) is the actual federal banking holiday when most banks close.

Why banks stay open on December 24

Because December 24 is not a federal holiday, banks have no legal obligation to close. Many remain open to serve customers who need to deposit checks, withdraw cash, or handle urgent transactions before the Christmas holiday. Some people also use Christmas Eve to prepare financially for the holiday period, and banks recognize this demand.

However, staffing is often lighter on December 24, and branches may operate with reduced hours. A bank that normally opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. might instead open at 10 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Online banking and ATM services typically remain available 24/7 regardless of the day, giving you options even if the physical branch has limited hours.

What actually closes on December 25

December 25 (Christmas Day) is the federal banking holiday. On this day, the Federal Reserve does not operate, and most banks, credit unions, and financial institutions close entirely. Stock markets also close. If you need cash or must deposit a check, you will need to plan ahead and handle it before December 25 arrives.

If Christmas Day falls on a weekend, the federal holiday is observed on the nearest weekday. For example, if Christmas falls on a Saturday, many banks observe the holiday on Friday, December 24. If it falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on Monday, December 26. Check your bank's specific holiday schedule to be certain which day applies to your institution.

How to find your bank's December 24 hours

The fastest way to confirm whether your bank is open on December 24 and what hours it keeps is to visit the bank's official website. Most institutions post holiday hours prominently during November and December. Look for a "Holiday Hours" section or search for "Christmas Eve hours" on their site.

You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a local branch in person. Many banks display holiday hours on the front door or in the lobby. If you use an online-only bank or credit union, check their website or app for any service interruptions or changes to availability. Some banks also send email notifications about holiday schedules to account holders.

Planning ahead for the Christmas period

If you know you will need cash or must deposit checks before Christmas, plan to visit your bank earlier in the week rather than waiting until December 24. This avoids the rush, gives you time to handle any issues, and means you are not caught off guard if your branch has unexpected hours or closures. Many people wait until the last minute, which can lead to longer lines and frustration.

If you use ATMs, remember that ATM withdrawals and deposits typically work 24/7, even when the bank branch itself is closed. However, mobile check deposits through your bank's app may process more slowly during holiday periods, so deposit checks early if the funds are time-sensitive. Plan your banking needs by mid-December to avoid any complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my bank be open on December 24?

Most banks are open on December 24, but hours are often shortened. Contact your specific bank to confirm their hours, as policies vary by institution and location.

What if I need to deposit a check on Christmas Eve?

If your bank is open, you can deposit in person. If the branch is closed, use a mobile check deposit through your bank's app or an ATM if your bank offers that service. Deposits made after business hours typically process the next business day.

Are credit unions open on December 24?

Credit unions are not required to close on December 24 and many remain open with reduced hours. Check with your credit union directly, as hours vary widely by institution and location.

What happens if I need money on Christmas Day?

Banks are closed on December 25, but ATMs remain available 24/7. Withdraw cash on December 24 or earlier if you know you will need it on Christmas Day.

Do online banks close on December 24?

Online banks do not have physical branches, so they do not "close" in the traditional sense. However, some services like customer support may have reduced availability. Check your bank's website for any holiday service changes.