Most banks are closed on December 26 in the United States
December 26 is not a federal holiday, so banks are not required to close. However, many major banks choose to stay closed on this day as an extension of the Christmas holiday. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most regional banks keep their doors shut on December 26. Some smaller community banks and credit unions may open, but you should not count on it.
The safest assumption is that your bank branch will be closed. If you need to move money or deposit a check on December 26, plan to do it on December 27 instead, or use an ATM or mobile app the day before.
Key Takeaways
- Most major U.S. banks close on December 26 as an unofficial holiday extension, even though it is not a federal holiday.
- ATMs and mobile banking apps work on December 26 regardless of branch hours, so you can withdraw cash or transfer money without visiting a branch.
- If you need to speak to a person or deposit a physical check, wait until December 27 when branches reopen.
- Credit unions vary widely — some close on December 26 and some do not, so contact yours directly if you are unsure.
How to access your money on December 26
Your bank's ATM will work on December 26 even if the branch is closed. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and transfer money between your own accounts using the ATM network. Most banks do not charge extra fees for ATM use on holidays.
Mobile banking apps also run on December 26. You can transfer money to another account, pay bills, deposit checks by taking a photo of the front and back, and send money to other people through services like Zelle or your bank's own transfer tool. These functions do not depend on branch staff being present.
If you need cash and do not have an ATM card, ask a friend or family member to withdraw money for you, or visit a store that offers cash back when you make a purchase.
What you cannot do on December 26 at a closed branch
You cannot speak to a teller or a banker in person. If you need to open a new account, dispute a transaction, get a cashier's check, or discuss a loan, you will have to wait until December 27. Some banks offer phone support on December 26, but many do not — check your bank's website or call the number on the back of your card to see if anyone is available.
You also cannot deposit a physical check at a closed branch. If you have a check that needs to go in, use mobile deposit through your app if your bank offers it. If your bank does not have mobile deposit, hold the check until December 27.
Credit unions and smaller banks
Credit unions do not all follow the same holiday schedule. Some close on December 26, and some stay open. Call your credit union directly or check its website to find out. The same applies to smaller regional banks and online-only banks — their policies vary.
If you bank with an online-only institution like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Marcus, your account works on December 26 just like any other day. These banks have no physical branches, so there are no holiday closures. You can transfer money, withdraw from partner ATMs, and manage your account normally.
Planning ahead for the December 26 closure
If you know you will need cash or need to make a deposit on December 26, do it on December 24 or 25 instead. December 25 is Christmas Day and most banks close, but if you need money before then, December 24 is a regular business day. Withdraw extra cash on December 24 so you have it on hand for December 26.
If you have bills due on December 26, pay them online or by phone before the holiday. Do not wait until December 26 to send a payment if the deadline is that day — the payment may not post until December 27 or later, and you could face a late fee.
What happens if you deposit a check on December 27
A check deposited on December 27 will usually post to your account by December 28 or 29, depending on when the bank processes it and whether it is a local or out-of-state check. The bank may hold the funds for one to two business days before you can withdraw them, especially if the check is large or from an unfamiliar bank.
If you need the money urgently, ask the teller whether the bank can make the funds available the same day or the next day. Some banks do this for customers in good standing, but it is not may provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on December 26 if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any ATM and at stores on December 26 regardless of whether your bank branch is open. You can withdraw cash, make purchases, and pay bills online without any problem.
Will my direct deposit hit my account on December 26?
Direct deposits scheduled for December 26 may arrive on that day or may be delayed until December 27, depending on your employer's payroll system and your bank's processing schedule. Check with your employer or your bank if you are unsure when to expect the deposit.
What if I need to dispute a charge on December 26?
You cannot speak to someone in person on December 26, but you can often start a dispute through your mobile app or by calling your bank's customer service line. Some banks have limited phone support on December 26. Check your bank's website for holiday hours or try calling the number on the back of your card.
Can I open a new account on December 26?
No, you cannot open an account at a closed branch on December 26. Some banks allow you to open an account online through their website or app, which you can do any day. If your bank requires you to visit a branch or speak to someone, wait until December 27.
Do online banks close on December 26?
Online-only banks like Ally, Discover, and Charles Schwab do not close on December 26. Their services run 24/7 because they have no physical branches. You can transfer money, withdraw cash from partner ATMs, and manage your account normally on December 26.