Veterans Day is a federal holiday, but most banks stay open
Veterans Day, November 11, is a federal holiday — the government recognizes it and federal offices close. However, most banks remain open on Veterans Day. Some banks close, but this depends on the individual bank's policy, not a federal rule. If you need to visit your bank branch on November 11, call ahead or check your bank's website to confirm whether that location will be open.
The confusion exists because Veterans Day is both a federal holiday and a banking industry holiday in name only. Federal employees get the day off. Banks are not required to close, and the vast majority choose to stay open to serve customers who may need to deposit checks, withdraw cash, or handle time-sensitive transactions.
Key Takeaways
- Veterans Day is a federal holiday, meaning federal offices and courts close, but banks are not required to close.
- Most major banks stay open on Veterans Day, though hours may be reduced or some branches may close.
- Credit unions are more likely to close on Veterans Day than commercial banks.
- You should contact your specific bank directly to confirm whether your branch will be open on November 11.
- If you need to conduct banking business on Veterans Day, plan ahead and verify your bank's schedule.
Which banks typically stay open on Veterans Day
Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citibank generally remain open on Veterans Day. They may operate on reduced hours — for example, opening at 10 a.m. instead of 9 a.m., or closing at 4 p.m. instead of 5 p.m. — but they do not close entirely. Online banking and ATMs remain available 24/7 regardless of the holiday.
Regional and community banks vary. Some stay open with normal or reduced hours; others close for the day. Credit unions are more likely to close on Veterans Day than commercial banks, so if you bank with a credit union, checking their holiday schedule is especially important.
What does close on Veterans Day
Federal offices close on Veterans Day, including Social Security offices, IRS field offices, and Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. If you need to visit a VA hospital, regional office, or benefits processing center, that location will be closed on November 11. Courts at all levels — federal, state, and local — are closed.
The U.S. Postal Service does not deliver mail on Veterans Day, and post offices are closed. Stock markets (NYSE and NASDAQ) close on Veterans Day. If you need to buy or sell securities, you cannot do so that day. Most government agencies at federal, state, and local levels close, though some essential services may operate on a limited schedule.
How to learn about your bank is open
The most reliable way to know is to contact your bank directly. Call the phone number on the back of your debit card or visit your bank's website and search for "holiday hours" or "Veterans Day hours." Most banks publish their holiday schedule online by early November.
If you use online banking or an ATM, you can conduct most routine transactions regardless of branch hours. Deposits made through a mobile app or ATM may take until the next business day to process, but the transaction itself goes through. Wire transfers and other time-sensitive moves should be handled before November 10 if possible.
Planning ahead for Veterans Day banking needs
If you know you will need to visit a bank branch on or around November 11, plan for the possibility that your branch may have reduced hours or be closed. Deposit checks using your bank's mobile app or an ATM before the holiday. Withdraw cash in advance if you anticipate needing it on Veterans Day itself.
For transactions that require a teller — such as cashier's checks, account disputes, or large cash deposits — handle these on November 10 or wait until November 12. If you have a time-sensitive financial matter, do not assume your bank will be open on Veterans Day; verify first.
Veterans Day and payroll processing
If your employer pays you by direct deposit, your paycheck will still arrive on schedule even if Veterans Day falls on a Friday or another regular payday. Direct deposit processes through the banking system overnight and does not depend on branch hours. However, if you need to access that money immediately — such as cashing a check at a branch — and your bank is closed, you will need to wait until the next business day or use an ATM.
If Veterans Day falls on a weekday and your employer normally pays on that day, some employers shift payday to November 10 or November 12. Check your pay stub or company payroll calendar to confirm when your next deposit will arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my bank be open on Veterans Day?
Most major banks stay open on Veterans Day, though hours may be reduced. Credit unions are more likely to close. Call your bank or check their website for your specific branch's hours before November 11.
Can I use an ATM on Veterans Day?
Yes. ATMs operate 24/7 regardless of whether the bank branch is open. You can withdraw cash, deposit checks through a mobile app, and check your balance anytime on Veterans Day.
Will my direct deposit arrive on Veterans Day?
Direct deposits process overnight through the banking system and are not affected by branch closures. Your paycheck will arrive on schedule. However, if you need to access the money at a physical branch, confirm your bank's hours first.
What government offices are closed on Veterans Day?
Federal offices close, including Social Security, the IRS, Veterans Affairs facilities, and all courts. Post offices are closed and mail is not delivered. State and local government offices typically close as well, though some may operate limited services.
If I need to visit the VA on Veterans Day, what should I do?
VA hospitals, regional offices, and benefits processing centers are closed on Veterans Day. Schedule your visit for November 10 or November 12. For urgent medical needs, VA emergency rooms operate 24/7 and are not affected by the holiday.