Most banks close on Veterans Day, but the timing depends on which bank you use and whether you need cash
Yes, most banks in the United States close on Veterans Day (November 11). This is a federal holiday, and banks that are members of the Federal Reserve follow federal holiday schedules. However, some credit unions and online banks stay open, and ATMs work regardless of whether the branch is closed.
The key difference is between a physical branch closing and your ability to move money. You cannot walk into a closed branch or speak to a teller, but you can still withdraw cash from an ATM, transfer money online, or use mobile banking. If you need to deposit a check or speak to someone about your account, you will need to wait until the next business day.
Key Takeaways
- Federal banks close on Veterans Day, but ATMs and online banking stay available.
- Credit unions and online-only banks may have different schedules — check your specific bank's website or call ahead.
- If you need cash, use your ATM before the holiday or plan to withdraw on the day before.
- Deposits made on Veterans Day may not post until the next business day, even if you use an ATM or mobile app.
Which banks are definitely closed on Veterans Day
Banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System close on all federal holidays, including Veterans Day. This includes most large national banks: Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, Citibank, and most regional banks you would find in a shopping center or downtown.
The Federal Reserve publishes an official list of holidays each year, and Veterans Day is always included. If your bank is a national or regional institution with branches across multiple states, it almost certainly follows this schedule.
Banks and credit unions that may stay open
Some credit unions do not follow the federal holiday schedule. They may stay open on Veterans Day or close on a different day. This varies by credit union, so you need to check with yours directly — call the branch, check their website, or look at their posted hours.
Online banks and digital-only financial institutions typically do not have physical branches, so the concept of "closing" does not explore the same way. However, they may have limited customer service hours on federal holidays. Check your bank's website for their specific Veterans Day hours.
What you can do on Veterans Day even if the branch is closed
ATMs work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, regardless of whether the branch is open. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and transfer money between your own accounts using an ATM on Veterans Day.
Mobile banking apps and online banking portals also work on the holiday. You can pay bills, transfer money to other people, deposit checks using mobile check deposit, and manage your account. The only thing you cannot do is speak to a teller or visit a physical location.
If you need to deposit cash or a check and the branch is closed, you can use an ATM that accepts deposits (many do), or wait until the next business day. Deposits made on Veterans Day may not post to your account until the following day, even if you make them through an ATM or mobile app.
Planning ahead for Veterans Day banking needs
If you know you will need cash on Veterans Day, withdraw it the day before. This is the simplest way to avoid any issues. If you need to deposit a check, you can use mobile check deposit through your bank's app — this works on holidays and usually posts within one or two business days.
If you have a payment due on Veterans Day and your bank is closed, most bills can be paid online or through automatic payments set up in advance. Set these up a few days early so the payment goes through before the holiday.
What happens to transactions on Veterans Day
Transactions you make on Veterans Day through ATMs, mobile apps, or online banking are processed, but they may not post to your account until the next business day. This is normal and does not mean anything is wrong with your account.
If you send money to another person's bank account on Veterans Day, it may take longer to arrive because the receiving bank is also closed. Transfers between banks typically take one to three business days anyway, so a holiday can add an extra day to the timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Veterans Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at stores, ATMs, and online merchants on Veterans Day regardless of whether your bank branch is open. The branch closure does not affect your card or your ability to spend money.
Will a check I deposit on Veterans Day clear the same day?
No. Checks deposited on Veterans Day will not begin processing until the next business day. If you deposit on the holiday through a mobile app or ATM, it typically posts the next day, and the funds may take one to three additional business days to clear depending on the check amount and your bank's policy.
What if I need to speak to someone at my bank on Veterans Day?
Most branches will be closed, but you may be able to reach customer service by phone. Call the number on the back of your debit card or check your bank's website for holiday customer service hours. Some banks offer limited phone support on federal holidays.
Do online banks close on Veterans Day?
Online banks do not have physical branches to close, so you can use their services on Veterans Day. However, customer service phone lines may have reduced hours or be closed. Check your bank's website for their specific Veterans Day support hours.
Is Veterans Day a banking holiday everywhere in the United States?
Yes, Veterans Day is a federal holiday, so all federally chartered banks close. However, some state-chartered banks and credit unions may have different schedules. If you are unsure about your specific bank, call ahead or check their website.