Most banks close on Veterans Day, but some branches stay open
Veterans Day falls on November 11 each year. Most banks treat it as a federal holiday and close all branches for the day. However, some banks keep select locations open, and online banking continues to work whether branches are open or closed.
If you need to visit a branch on November 11, call ahead or check your bank's website to see if your location is open. Even if it is, staffing may be lighter than usual. ATMs and mobile apps work normally on the holiday, so you can withdraw cash, check balances, and transfer money without visiting a branch.
The Federal Reserve also closes on Veterans Day, which means wire transfers and some other services that depend on the Fed may process more slowly if you initiate them on the holiday.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks close all branches on November 11, though some larger banks keep a few locations open — call your branch to confirm.
- ATMs work on Veterans Day, and you can use mobile banking and online banking to move money or check your balance.
- Wire transfers initiated on Veterans Day may not process until the next business day because the Federal Reserve is closed.
- If you need cash or services on November 11, plan ahead by withdrawing money the day before or using an ATM.
Which banks stay open on Veterans Day
Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citibank close most or all branches on Veterans Day. However, some of these banks operate a small number of branches in major cities or airports that remain open with reduced hours.
Credit unions typically close on Veterans Day as well, though some credit union networks share branches with other institutions and may have limited access through partner locations. Call your credit union directly to ask whether your branch is open.
Community banks and smaller regional banks almost always close on Veterans Day. If you bank with a smaller institution, assume your branch is closed unless you have received notice otherwise.
What you can do on Veterans Day without a branch
ATMs work 24 hours on Veterans Day. You can withdraw cash, deposit checks (at ATMs that accept deposits), and check your balance without visiting a branch.
Mobile banking apps and online banking portals stay open. You can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, send money to other people, and review your transaction history. These services do not depend on branch staff.
Debit cards work normally at stores and restaurants. You can make purchases, get cash back at checkout, and use contactless payments. The holiday does not affect card processing at the point of sale.
Services that may be delayed on Veterans Day
Wire transfers initiated on November 11 will not process until the next business day. The Federal Reserve, which handles wire transfers between banks, is closed on Veterans Day. If you need to send money urgently, do it before the holiday.
Checks deposited on Veterans Day may take longer to clear. Some banks process mobile check deposits on the holiday, but the funds may not be available until the next business day or later, depending on your bank's policy.
Loan applications and account openings may not be processed on Veterans Day. If you are waiting for approval on a mortgage, car loan, or new account, do not expect movement on November 11. Contact your bank to ask when you can expect a response.
Planning ahead for Veterans Day banking
If you know you will need cash on November 11, withdraw it on November 10. This is the simplest way to avoid any surprises.
If you need to send a wire transfer, do it before Veterans Day. Wires sent after the Federal Reserve closes will not move until the next business day, which can delay payments by 24 hours or more.
If you have a time-sensitive banking need — a loan decision, a large deposit, or account changes — contact your bank before the holiday to ask when they can handle it. Some banks process certain requests on the holiday even if branches are closed.
What happens if you need emergency cash
ATMs are your best option. Every major bank and most credit unions have ATMs that work around the clock, including Veterans Day. If your bank's ATM is not nearby, you can use an ATM from another bank, though you may pay a fee.
Some grocery stores and pharmacies have ATMs that are free to use if you are a customer of the bank that owns them. Others charge a fee, usually between $2 and $3.
If you do not have a debit card or your card is not working, you will need to wait until November 12 to visit a branch. Plan accordingly if you are running low on cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit a check on Veterans Day?
If your bank has a mobile app with check deposit, you can deposit on November 11. The check will be processed, but the funds may not be available until the next business day or later. Physical deposits at ATMs that accept checks also work on the holiday.
Will my direct deposit go through on Veterans Day?
Yes. Direct deposits from employers and government benefits are not affected by bank holidays. Money will appear in your account on the normal schedule, whether that day falls on a holiday or not.
What if I need to pay a bill on Veterans Day?
Pay through your bank's online portal or mobile app. Bill payments initiated on November 11 will process normally. If you pay by check, mail it early so it arrives before the due date.
Are credit unions closed on Veterans Day?
Most credit unions close on Veterans Day, but some stay open with limited hours. Call your credit union to confirm. You can still use ATMs and online banking on the holiday.
Can I open a new bank account on Veterans Day?
Most banks do not open new accounts on Veterans Day because branches are closed and staff are not available. Contact your bank before the holiday to ask if they can process applications online or on the phone.