Most banks are closed on Columbus Day, but some branches stay open
Columbus Day is a federal holiday, which means most banks observe it and close their doors. However, not every bank follows the federal holiday schedule the same way. Some larger banks close all branches, while others keep select locations open in major cities or shopping centers. A few online-only banks may process transactions normally since they have no physical branches to close.
The safest approach is to check with your specific bank before Columbus Day arrives. Call your branch directly, check your bank's website, or look at their holiday schedule in your account settings. Most banks post their holiday hours weeks in advance, and many send notices to customers by email or text.
Key Takeaways
- Most traditional banks close all branches on Columbus Day because it is a federal holiday.
- Some banks keep certain branches open in major cities, so you should confirm with your bank directly rather than assume.
- Online banks and ATMs may work normally on Columbus Day even if branch lobbies are closed.
- Bank websites usually list holiday hours at least two weeks in advance, often in a dedicated holiday schedule section.
What happens to ATMs and online banking on Columbus Day
ATMs stay open and work normally on Columbus Day, even when the bank branch itself is closed. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and move money between your own accounts using any ATM at any time. The machines run 24/7 and do not observe holidays.
Online banking also works on Columbus Day. You can log into your account, transfer money, pay bills, and check transactions from your computer or phone. The only thing you cannot do is walk into a branch and speak to a teller or banker in person. If you need to deposit a check, you can use mobile deposit (taking a photo of the check through your bank's app) on Columbus Day, and the bank will process it when they reopen.
Which banks typically stay open on Columbus Day
Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank close most or all branches on Columbus Day. However, they often keep a few branches open in major metropolitan areas. Credit unions vary widely — some close entirely, while others stay open. Community banks and smaller regional banks are more likely to close completely.
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, and Discover Bank do not have physical branches, so there is nothing to close. You can use their services normally on Columbus Day. If you bank with an online bank and need cash, you can withdraw from any ATM in their network, which operates around the clock.
How to find your bank's Columbus Day hours
The quickest way is to visit your bank's website and look for a "Holiday Hours" or "Branch Hours" section. Most banks update this page by early October. You can also call your specific branch directly — the phone line usually has a recorded message about holiday closures, or you can speak to someone during regular hours and ask.
If you use your bank's mobile app, check the branch locator tool. Many apps show holiday hours right next to the branch address and regular hours. Some banks also send email or text notifications about holiday closures to customers who have opted into alerts.
Planning ahead for Columbus Day banking needs
If you know you will need to visit your bank on or around Columbus Day, plan for the closure. Deposit checks early using mobile deposit or an ATM. Withdraw cash before the holiday if you think you will need it. Pay bills online or schedule automatic payments in advance.
If you need to speak to a banker — to open an account, explore for a loan, or resolve a problem — call ahead and ask if your branch will be open. Some banks offer phone or video banking appointments on holidays, even if the physical branch is closed. Ask whether this option is available at your bank.
What to do if you need banking services on Columbus Day
If you have an urgent banking need on Columbus Day itself, your options depend on what you need. For cash, use any ATM. For deposits, use mobile deposit or an ATM that accepts checks. For transfers or bill payments, use online banking or your bank's mobile app.
If you need to speak to someone, call your bank's customer service line. Many banks staff their phone lines on holidays, even when branches are closed. They can answer questions, help with account issues, or schedule an appointment for after the holiday. If your bank has a 24/7 customer service number, that line will be available on Columbus Day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Columbus Day if the bank is closed?
Yes. Your debit card works at any ATM and any store on Columbus Day, regardless of whether your bank's branch is open. The bank's closure only affects the physical location, not the card network or your account access.
Will checks I deposit on Columbus Day clear the same day?
No. If you deposit a check on Columbus Day using mobile deposit or an ATM, the bank will process it when they reopen on Tuesday. The deposit will be timestamped for Columbus Day, but the clearing process begins the next business day.
Do credit unions close on Columbus Day?
Most credit unions close on Columbus Day, but not all. Some credit unions in certain states do not observe it. Contact your credit union directly to confirm their holiday schedule, or check their website for a list of observed holidays.
What if I need to cash a check on Columbus Day?
If your bank is closed, you can cash a check at another bank if you have an account there, or at a check-cashing service (though these usually charge a fee). ATMs do not cash checks. Some grocery stores and retailers also offer check-cashing services.
Are wire transfers delayed on Columbus Day?
Wire transfers sent on Columbus Day may not arrive until Tuesday, depending on the receiving bank. If you need money to arrive urgently, send the wire before the holiday. Ask your bank how they handle wires on federal holidays.