Most banks are closed the day after Thanksgiving, but some branches and services stay open

The day after Thanksgiving—known as the Friday after the fourth Thursday in November—is not a federal holiday. That means banks are not required by law to close. However, most major banks do close their physical branches on this day anyway, treating it as an unofficial holiday. Your ability to do banking depends on which bank you use and what you need to do.

If you need cash or want to speak to someone in person, call your bank's customer service line the day before to confirm whether your specific branch will be open. Some banks keep a handful of locations open in larger cities, and some credit unions operate on different schedules than national banks.

Key Takeaways

  • Most national banks close their branches the day after Thanksgiving even though it is not a federal holiday.
  • ATMs and online banking work normally on the day after Thanksgiving, so you can withdraw cash and transfer money without visiting a branch.
  • Mobile check deposit, bill pay, and account transfers all function on this day through your bank's app or website.
  • If you need to speak to a live person, call your bank's main customer service number the day before to find out which branches, if any, are open in your area.

ATMs and online banking work normally

You can withdraw cash from any ATM on the day after Thanksgiving, whether it belongs to your bank or another network. ATM transactions process the same way they do on any other day. If you anticipate needing cash over the long weekend, withdraw it before the holiday or use an ATM on Friday.

Online banking, mobile apps, and phone banking all remain available. You can check your balance, transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks using your phone camera—all without visiting a branch. These transactions may not post until the following business day, but you can initiate them when ready.

Which banks typically close on the day after Thanksgiving

Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and most other national banks close their branches on the day after Thanksgiving. Regional banks and credit unions vary: some follow the same pattern, others stay open. A few credit unions operate seven days a week year-round.

The safest approach is to contact your specific bank directly. Call the main customer service number (on the back of your card or on the bank's website) and ask whether your local branch will be open. This takes two minutes and removes the guesswork.

What you can and cannot do without a branch

You can deposit checks, transfer money, pay bills, and check your balance without stepping into a branch. You cannot open a new account, order a cashier's check, get a safe deposit box, or speak to a loan officer in person. If you need any of those services, plan ahead and complete them before Thursday.

If you need a cashier's check or certified check for a closing, payment, or other time-sensitive transaction, request it on Wednesday or earlier. Some banks can mail these to you, but that takes several days. If you absolutely need one on Friday and your branch is closed, call customer service to ask whether any nearby branches are open or whether the bank can issue one remotely.

When transactions actually post after the long weekend

Transactions you initiate on Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) may not post to your account until Monday, depending on the type of transaction. Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank usually post by end of day Friday or early Monday. Payments to other banks or bill payments typically post Monday or Tuesday.

Checks you deposit using mobile deposit on Friday will not be available until Monday at the earliest, and sometimes not until Tuesday. If you need the money urgently, deposit the check before Thursday. Wire transfers initiated on Friday may also wait until Monday to process, so do not rely on Friday wire transfers for time-sensitive payments.

Planning ahead for the Thanksgiving weekend

If you know you will need cash, a cashier's check, or in-person banking services, handle it on Wednesday or earlier. Withdraw enough cash to cover the weekend and Monday if your branch is closed. If you need to pay someone by check, write and mail it before Thursday so it arrives by the following week.

For bill payments and transfers, use your bank's online system on Thursday or earlier. Most bills have a grace period, so paying a day or two early does not cause problems. If you are waiting for a deposit (paycheck, refund, transfer from another bank), remember that it may not post until Tuesday, so do not count on that money being available on Friday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my debit card on the day after Thanksgiving?

Yes. Debit cards work at stores, restaurants, and ATMs on the day after Thanksgiving regardless of whether your bank branch is open. The transaction will process normally, though it may not show in your account until the next business day.

Will my paycheck deposit on Friday if my employer pays me the day after Thanksgiving?

It depends on your employer and your bank. Direct deposits scheduled for Friday may post Friday evening or may wait until Monday. Ask your employer's payroll department when they submit the deposit file. If it is submitted Thursday, it should post Friday. If it is submitted Friday, it likely posts Monday.

What if I need to dispute a charge over the weekend?

Call your bank's customer service line—it operates 24/7 even when branches are closed. Report the fraudulent or incorrect charge, and the bank will begin an investigation. You do not need to visit a branch to start a dispute.

Are credit unions open the day after Thanksgiving?

Some are, some are not. Credit unions set their own holiday schedules, so you must check with your specific credit union. Call the main number or check their website for holiday hours.

Can I get a new debit card on Friday if mine is lost?

Not in person. Call your bank's customer service line to report the card lost and request a replacement. Most banks can rush a card to you, but it takes several business days. In the meantime, you can use your mobile wallet or online banking to access your money.