Most banks close on Veterans Day, but some branches and online services stay available
Veterans Day is a federal holiday on November 11th. Most traditional banks — Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, Citibank, and regional banks — close their physical branches on this day. However, you can still access your money through ATMs, mobile apps, and online banking. Some credit unions and smaller banks may have different schedules, so check with your specific institution before you plan to visit.
If you need cash or have to deposit a check, plan ahead. ATMs work 24/7 even when branches are closed. Mobile deposits through your bank's app let you photograph and submit checks from home. Wire transfers and bill payments can usually be processed online or through your phone, though they may not post until the next business day.
Key Takeaways
- Physical bank branches close on Veterans Day, but ATMs and online banking remain available around the clock.
- Mobile check deposits through your bank's app work on the holiday, though the funds may not clear until the next business day.
- Wire transfers and bill payments can be initiated online on Veterans Day, but processing typically begins the following business day.
- Credit unions and smaller regional banks may have different holiday schedules, so contact your bank directly if you are unsure.
What stays open: ATMs, apps, and online banking
Your bank's ATM network operates continuously on Veterans Day. You can withdraw cash, deposit checks (if your ATM has that feature), transfer money between accounts, and check your balance at any time. This is the fastest way to get cash if you need it during the holiday.
Online and mobile banking work the same way on Veterans Day as any other day. Log into your bank's website or app to pay bills, transfer funds between your own accounts, send money to other people, or review transactions. Transactions you initiate on the holiday will be processed according to your bank's normal schedule — usually the next business day for transfers to other banks, and immediately for transfers within your own accounts.
If you need to deposit a paper check, use your bank's mobile deposit feature. Take a photo of the front and back of the check through your app and submit it. The check will be processed when the bank reopens, typically the next business day. Some banks credit the funds immediately as a courtesy, but the actual clearing may take longer.
What closes: Teller windows and in-person services
Bank teller windows, loan offices, and customer service desks close on Veterans Day. You cannot walk in to speak with a representative, open a new account, apply for a loan, or handle disputes in person. If you need these services, visit on the business day before or after the holiday.
Some banks offer phone support on federal holidays, but this varies by institution. Call your bank's customer service number to see if a representative is available. Many banks route holiday calls to automated systems or direct you to use online banking instead.
How to plan ahead if you need banking services
If you know you will need cash on or around Veterans Day, withdraw it from an ATM the day before. This avoids any risk of running out of cash or encountering an ATM that is temporarily out of service.
If you need to deposit a check, use mobile deposit on the holiday itself. The check will be in the queue for processing when the bank reopens. If your bank does not offer mobile deposit, deposit the check at an ATM the day before if possible, or wait until the bank reopens.
For bill payments or transfers to other people, initiate them online or through your app on Veterans Day. They will process on the next business day. If the payment has a specific due date, make sure you submit it with enough time for it to clear — usually at least one business day before the deadline.
Credit unions and regional banks may have different schedules
While most national banks close on Veterans Day, some credit unions and smaller regional banks stay open or have limited hours. Call your bank or credit union directly to confirm their Veterans Day schedule. Their website usually lists holiday hours, or you can call the branch you plan to visit.
If your bank is open on Veterans Day, hours may be shorter than usual. Some branches open later or close earlier. Check before you go so you do not make a trip for nothing.
What to do if you have an urgent banking need
If you have a genuine emergency — a fraudulent charge, a compromised account, or a critical payment — call your bank's customer service line. Most banks maintain a phone line for fraud and account security issues even on holidays. The number is usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website.
For non-urgent issues, use your bank's online chat or message feature if available. Some banks respond to messages within a few hours, even on holidays. Otherwise, wait until the next business day to contact a representative in person or by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Veterans Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any merchant, ATM, or online retailer on Veterans Day, regardless of whether your bank's branch is open. The transaction will process normally, though transfers between banks may not post until the next business day.
Will my direct deposit or paycheck hit my account on Veterans Day?
Direct deposits scheduled for Veterans Day may be delayed by one business day because the bank is closed. Check with your employer or payroll provider about their specific schedule. Some employers deposit on the business day before the holiday to avoid delays.
Can I get a cashier's check on Veterans Day?
No. Cashier's checks are issued by tellers at the branch, and branches are closed on Veterans Day. You will need to visit on the business day before or after. If you need a cashier's check urgently, contact your bank to see if they can issue one early.
Do online banks close on Veterans Day?
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover do not have physical branches, so there is nothing to close. You can access your account, transfer money, and conduct all banking services normally on Veterans Day. Processing times for transfers to other banks may still follow standard schedules.
What if I need to report fraud on Veterans Day?
Call your bank's fraud line immediately. The number is on your debit card or your bank's website. Most banks staff fraud departments 24/7, including holidays, because unauthorized charges are time-sensitive. Report the fraudulent transaction as soon as you notice it.