Most banks are closed on Veterans Day, but some branches and ATMs stay open
Veterans Day falls on November 11 each year. On that date, most major banks — including Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank — close their physical branches because it is a federal holiday. However, ATMs and online banking remain available 24/7, so you can withdraw cash and check balances even when branches are shut.
Some credit unions and smaller regional banks may have different schedules, so calling ahead is worth the time if you need to speak to someone or conduct business in person. If November 11 falls on a weekend, banks typically observe the holiday on the nearest weekday — usually Friday if it falls on Saturday, or Monday if it falls on Sunday.
Key Takeaways
- Major bank branches close on Veterans Day (November 11), but ATMs and online banking work normally.
- If you need cash or to check your balance, use an ATM or your bank's mobile app or website.
- Credit unions and smaller banks may have different hours, so call your branch directly to confirm.
- When Veterans Day falls on a weekend, banks observe the holiday on the nearest weekday instead.
- Wire transfers, bill payments, and other online transactions process normally on the holiday.
What you can and cannot do on Veterans Day
You can withdraw money from any ATM, deposit checks through mobile deposit (if your bank offers it), transfer funds between your own accounts online, and pay bills through your bank's website or app. You cannot walk into a branch to speak with a teller, open a new account in person, or get a cashier's check without advance planning.
If you need a cashier's check or other services that require a teller, plan ahead and get what you need on the business day before Veterans Day. Some banks allow you to order a cashier's check online for pickup the next business day, so check your bank's website to see if that option exists.
How to learn about your specific bank is open
Call your branch directly using the number on your debit card or from your bank's website. The recorded message will tell you whether it is open on Veterans Day. You can also check your bank's website or mobile app — most have a branch locator tool that shows hours for each location.
If you bank at a credit union, the same rule applies: call ahead. Credit unions are not required to follow the same federal holiday schedule as banks, so some may be open while others are closed. A quick phone call takes 30 seconds and removes the guesswork.
When Veterans Day falls on a weekend
If November 11 lands on a Saturday, most banks observe the holiday on Friday, November 10. If it lands on a Sunday, they observe it on Monday, November 12. This means the branch closure shifts to the nearest weekday, not the actual date of the holiday.
Online banking and ATMs remain open regardless of which day the bank observes the holiday. Check your bank's website or call to confirm the exact day your branch will be closed, since some institutions may handle the observance differently.
Planning ahead for Veterans Day banking needs
If you know you will need cash or in-person banking services on or around Veterans Day, withdraw money and handle any necessary transactions the business day before. This is especially important if you need a cashier's check, a notarized document, or help with a complicated account issue.
Set up bill payments and transfers online a few days in advance so they process on time. Most online transactions post within one to two business days anyway, so timing them before the holiday ensures nothing gets delayed by the closure.
What happens to deposits and transactions on Veterans Day
Deposits made through ATMs or mobile deposit on Veterans Day will be processed the next business day. Checks deposited on the holiday will not clear until the day after the bank reopens. Wire transfers initiated online may process the same day depending on your bank's system, but many banks do not process wires on federal holidays.
If you need a transaction to go through on a specific date, do not rely on Veterans Day to complete it. Initiate transfers and payments at least one business day before the holiday to ensure they post on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Veterans Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any ATM and at stores 24/7, regardless of whether your bank's branch is open. You can also use your card for online purchases and bill payments through your bank's website or app.
Will my paycheck deposit on time if Veterans Day falls on a Friday?
If your employer deposits your paycheck on Friday and Veterans Day is observed on Friday, the deposit may be delayed until Monday. Contact your employer or payroll department to confirm the deposit date. Direct deposits sometimes process on the holiday itself, but it depends on your bank's system.
Can I get a cashier's check on Veterans Day?
No, not in person. Branches are closed. Some banks allow you to order a cashier's check online for pickup the next business day. Call your bank or check their website to see if this option is available.
Do online banks close on Veterans Day?
Online-only banks do not have physical branches, so there is nothing to close. You can transfer money, pay bills, and manage your account normally on Veterans Day. Customer service phone lines may have reduced hours, so check your bank's website for support availability.
What if I need emergency cash on Veterans Day?
Use any ATM to withdraw cash. ATMs work 24/7 on holidays. If you do not have a debit card or your card is not working, you will need to wait until the next business day to visit a branch or call customer service for help.