Most banks are closed on Election Day because it is a federal holiday
Election Day in the United States is a federal holiday, which means most banks observe it as a non-business day. The Federal Reserve, which sets the standard for the banking system, does not process transactions on Election Day. This means you cannot visit a branch, use a teller, or conduct in-person business at most major banks on that day.
However, the specifics depend on which bank you use and what you need to do. Some banks stay open in certain locations. ATMs and online banking typically work regardless of whether branches are closed. If you need cash or have banking business to handle, you should plan ahead rather than assume your branch will be open.
Key Takeaways
- Most bank branches close on Election Day because it is a federal holiday, though ATMs and online banking remain available.
- Some banks keep select branches open in certain cities, so calling your specific branch is the only way to know for sure.
- You can withdraw cash from an ATM, transfer money online, or pay bills through your bank's website or app on Election Day.
- If you need to deposit a check or speak to a teller, plan to do that the day before or the day after Election Day.
Which banks close and which stay open
The major national banks—Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and others—close their branches on Election Day. Credit unions typically close as well. However, some regional banks and smaller institutions may stay open, and a few large banks keep branches open in major cities even on federal holidays.
The only reliable way to know whether your specific branch is open is to call ahead or check your bank's website. Many banks post holiday hours online a week or two before Election Day. If you cannot find the information online, call the branch directly—staff can tell you whether they will be open and for how long.
What you can still do on Election Day
ATMs work on Election Day regardless of whether branches are closed. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and transfer money between your own accounts using an ATM. Most banks do not charge extra fees for ATM use on holidays.
Online banking and mobile apps also work normally on Election Day. You can pay bills, transfer money between accounts, send money to other people through your bank's app, and deposit checks using mobile check deposit if your bank offers it. These services run on the bank's servers and do not require a branch to be staffed.
What you cannot do on Election Day
You cannot visit a branch to speak with a teller, deposit cash, get a cashier's check, or handle account issues that require a person. If you need to dispute a transaction, open a new account, or explore for a loan, those services are not available on Election Day at closed branches.
Checks you deposit on Election Day through an ATM or mobile app will be processed the next business day, not when ready. If you need the money urgently, deposit before Election Day instead.
Planning ahead for Election Day banking
If you know you will need cash, withdraw it on the day before Election Day. If you need to deposit a check, use your bank's mobile app or ATM if available, or wait until the day after. If you have a question that requires talking to someone, call your branch before Election Day closes or plan to visit the day after.
For time-sensitive transactions—like disputing a fraudulent charge or resolving an account problem—contact your bank's customer service line before Election Day. Many banks have phone lines open even when branches are closed, and they can often resolve issues without requiring you to visit in person.
Election Day hours by bank type
| Bank Type | Branches Open | ATMs Available | Online Banking Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major national banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citibank) | No, closed | Yes | Yes |
| Credit unions | Usually no, closed | Yes | Yes |
| Regional and community banks | Varies by location | Yes | Yes |
| Online-only banks | No branches exist | Yes (partner ATMs) | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card on Election Day?
Yes. Debit cards work at any merchant, ATM, or online retailer on Election Day. The bank closure does not affect card transactions. You can also use your card to withdraw cash from ATMs that are not owned by your bank, though you may be charged a fee by the ATM operator.
Will my direct deposit go through on Election Day?
Direct deposits scheduled for Election Day may be delayed until the next business day because the Federal Reserve does not process ACH transfers on federal holidays. If your paycheck is scheduled to arrive on Election Day, it typically lands on the following business day instead. Check with your employer about the exact timing.
What if I need to report fraud on Election Day?
Call your bank's fraud line or customer service number, which is usually staffed even when branches are closed. The number is on the back of your debit or credit card. Reporting fraud by phone creates a record and starts the dispute process, so you do not have to wait until the branch reopens.
Can I get a cashier's check on Election Day?
No. Cashier's checks require a teller and can only be obtained at an open branch. If you need one urgently, get it the day before Election Day. Some banks can mail cashier's checks, though that takes several business days.
Do online banks close on Election Day?
Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab Bank, or Marcus do not have physical branches, so there is nothing to close. You can access your account, transfer money, and use ATMs on Election Day just as you would any other day. However, wire transfers and other services that require Federal Reserve processing may be delayed until the next business day.