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You’re far from alone. In fact, search volume for this question spikes before nearly every federal holiday in the United States. And for good reason — knowing whether your bank will be open can make the difference between a smooth week and a financial headache.

In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly which days banks close, why those closures happen, what you can still do while branches are closed, and how to plan ahead so your money moves when you need it to.

Let’s dive in.

Understanding Federal Holidays and How They Affect Banks

The U.S. federal government recognizes 11 official federal holidays each year. On these days, government offices, post offices, and the Federal Reserve close — and when the Federal Reserve closes, most banks follow suit.

That’s because the Federal Reserve Bank handles the nation’s clearing and settlement systems — the behind-the-scenes process that moves money between financial institutions. If the Fed is closed, wire transfers, ACH payments, and check processing often pause too. So even though many banks today offer robust digital tools, physical branch closures remain tied to this national calendar.

In short:
If it’s a federal holiday, most brick-and-mortar banks are closed, but your online and mobile banking are still open 24/7.

2026 Federal Holiday Bank Schedule

Here’s a clear, up-to-date list of the 2026 federal holidays.

Pro Tip: When a federal holiday falls on a Saturday, it’s observed on the preceding Friday. When it falls on a Sunday, it’s observed on the following Monday. Always check your bank’s posted holiday schedule for confirmation.

What About the Day Before or After a Holiday?

Bank schedules can vary before and after federal holidays.

Here’s what to expect:

• Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve: Many banks close early, often around 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.
• Black Friday: Most banks are open, but with lighter staffing.
• The Saturday before a holiday Monday: Weekend hours generally remain unchanged unless otherwise posted.

If you’re unsure, check your bank’s website or Google Business listing — most update hours well in advance.

Community Banks vs. National Banks: Is There a Difference?

Sometimes!

While most financial institutions follow the Federal Reserve schedule, community banks occasionally offer more flexibility — especially in close-knit local markets. For example, some may open for limited hours on days when larger banks remain closed, or provide personalized support via phone or email even during holidays.

At Liberty Savings Bank, for instance, while our branches close in observance of federal holidays, our online banking tools and customer support resources stay available — ensuring our customers never lose access to their accounts or essential services.

If you bank locally, it’s always worth checking your community bank’s holiday schedule — they may go the extra mile to keep you connected.

What You Can Still Do When Banks Are Closed

Even when branches close their doors, your financial life doesn’t have to hit pause.

Here’s what’s still open for business:

1. Use Mobile or Online Banking

Nearly every major transaction — transferring funds, checking balances, or depositing checks — can now be done from your phone or laptop.

Tip: If you’re depositing a check via mobile app, make sure to submit it before the cutoff time to avoid next-business-day processing delays.

2. Access ATMs

ATMs operate 24/7 and handle most basic banking needs, including:

• Cash withdrawals
• Deposits (at many machines)
• Balance inquiries
• Fund transfers between linked accounts

If you’re traveling over a long weekend, use your bank’s ATM locator to avoid out-of-network fees.

3. Schedule Future Payments

You can schedule bill payments, loan payments, and transfers in advance. If a due date lands on a holiday, payments typically post the next business day — but it’s smart to schedule them early.

4. Use Your Debit or Credit Card Normally

Even though banks are closed, card transactions continue as usual. Purchases, online payments, and cash withdrawals go through unaffected.

Why Banks Close on Federal Holidays

It might seem inconvenient, but there’s logic behind these closures.

Federal holidays are rooted in national recognition — honoring significant moments in U.S. history, cultural milestones, and shared reflection. When the Federal Reserve pauses its operations, the nation’s financial systems do too.

Closing gives financial employees time to rest, ensures system updates can occur securely, and maintains consistency across the industry.

In other words, it’s not just a day off — it’s part of how the financial system maintains integrity and balance.

How to Plan Ahead for Bank Holidays

A little preparation can go a long way. Here’s how to keep your finances running smoothly around holiday closures:

1. Check Your Upcoming Bills

Review your auto-pay and due dates. If something’s scheduled to hit on a federal holiday, adjust it a few days early to ensure timely payment.

2. Deposit Checks Early

If you receive physical checks, deposit them a few days before the holiday. Mobile check deposits may process on the next business day, even if you submit them over a holiday weekend.

3. Withdraw Cash in Advance

If you’ll need cash for travel or tipping over a long weekend, withdraw it beforehand to avoid crowded ATMs or limited branch hours.

4. Contact Your Bank’s Support Team

If you anticipate needing help (such as with a loan payment or wire transfer), reach out early. Many banks offer extended call center hours before holiday weekends.

5. Keep an Eye on Digital Services

Most banks announce digital service updates or maintenance schedules before holidays. A quick look at your bank’s website or social media can help you stay informed.

Common Questions About Holiday Banking

Let’s clear up a few of the most common holiday banking questions.

Are banks open on Sundays?

Most banks — including community banks — close on Sundays. However, ATMs and online banking remain fully available.

Do direct deposits still go through on holidays?

Not always. Direct deposits depend on the ACH system, which pauses on federal holidays. Deposits made on a holiday will typically post the next business day.

Can I transfer money between accounts on a holiday?

You can initiate transfers anytime, but they’ll process on the next business day if the Federal Reserve is closed.

Do holidays delay check deposits?

Yes. Checks deposited on a holiday will process when the bank reopens. Mobile check deposits made after cutoff times are treated the same way.

Are online banks affected by holidays?

Yes — even online-only banks rely on Federal Reserve systems for clearing payments. While their “doors” are always open, transaction processing still follows the holiday schedule.

2026 Holiday Banking Planning Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist to make sure your finances stay on track this year:

• Review all 2026 federal holidays and note upcoming closures.
• Set up direct deposits and automatic bill payments early.
• Use your bank’s mobile app to deposit checks before holiday weekends.
• Withdraw cash in advance for travel or emergencies.
• Confirm wire transfers before the cutoff time prior to holidays.
• Bookmark your bank’s holiday hours page (or this post!) for easy reference.
  
  

Stay Connected, Even When Banks Close

Federal holidays remind us that time off — even in banking — has purpose. But thanks to technology and proactive planning, your finances don’t have to skip a beat.

Whether you’re checking balances on the beach, depositing a paycheck from your phone, or stopping by your local branch the day before a long weekend, having a plan ensures everything runs smoothly.

At Liberty Savings Bank, we’re proud to support our community — both in person and online — every day of the year. So when the next holiday rolls around, you’ll know exactly where you stand: confident, prepared, and connected to a bank that puts your needs first.

Helpful Resources:

• Federal Reserve Bank Holiday Schedule (Official Source)
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Tips for Managing Your Accounts
• FDIC – Banking FAQs