Most banks are closed on MLK Day, but some branches and services stay open

Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on the third Monday of January each year. In 2025, that's January 20. Most major banks treat it as a federal holiday and close their physical branches. However, ATMs and online banking stay available, and some banks operate limited hours or keep select branches open depending on their policy.

The banks that close on MLK Day include Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and US Bank. Credit unions typically close as well. If you need cash or in-person service, plan ahead—withdraw money the day before or use an ATM on the holiday itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major bank branches close on MLK Day, but ATMs and online banking remain available 24/7.
  • You can withdraw cash from any ATM on MLK Day, even if the branch is closed.
  • Check your specific bank's website or call ahead if you need to know whether a particular branch has holiday hours.
  • Wire transfers, bill payments, and other online transactions process normally, though they may post the next business day.
  • If you need a cashier's check or notary service, you will need to visit on a different day.

What stays open and what closes

ATMs operate around the clock on MLK Day, regardless of whether the branch is staffed. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and deposit checks at any ATM belonging to your bank or a partner network. Mobile banking apps and online banking portals work the same way they do any other day.

What does not work on MLK Day: visiting a teller, opening a new account, getting a cashier's check, using notary services, or speaking to a loan officer in person. If you need any of these services, you will have to wait until the next business day. Some banks may staff their phone lines during holiday hours, though wait times are often longer than usual.

How to learn about your bank has special hours

Call your bank's customer service line or check their website directly. Most banks publish holiday hours in advance. Search for "[Your Bank Name] MLK Day hours" or go to the bank's main website and look for a holiday schedule or branch locator tool.

Some regional banks and smaller credit unions may have different policies than national chains. A few branches in certain areas might stay open for limited hours even when most locations close. The only way to know for sure is to contact your bank directly or check their online branch finder. Many banks also send email notifications about holiday closures to their customers in advance.

What happens to deposits and transfers on MLK Day

Deposits made at an ATM on MLK Day will be processed, but they typically post to your account on the next business day (Tuesday, January 21, 2025). The same applies to mobile check deposits and online transfers between your own accounts.

Transfers to other banks or wire transfers initiated on MLK Day may not process until the next business day, depending on the time you submit them and your bank's processing schedule. If you need money to move quickly, send it before the holiday ends. Same-day transfers are generally not available on federal holidays.

Planning ahead for common needs

If you need cash, withdraw it on Friday or Saturday before the holiday. If you need a cashier's check, get it before MLK Day. If you are expecting a deposit or transfer, remember it will not post until Tuesday at the earliest.

For bill payments and routine transactions, use your bank's online portal or mobile app—these work on the holiday. If you have a time-sensitive financial matter, handle it before MLK Day or wait until Tuesday morning when branches reopen. Consider setting up automatic bill payments in advance so you do not have to worry about manual processing on a holiday.

Which businesses stay open on MLK Day

While banks close, most retail stores, grocery stores, and restaurants stay open on MLK Day. Post offices are closed (it is a federal holiday), but UPS and FedEx locations typically operate normal hours. Gas stations and convenience stores remain open.

If you need financial services on MLK Day, your options are limited to ATMs, online banking, and mobile apps. Plan your banking around the holiday closure rather than expecting to find an open branch. Some larger cities may have a few bank branches that operate on a limited schedule, but this is uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my debit card on MLK Day if the bank is closed?

Yes. Your debit card works at any ATM or merchant on MLK Day, even if your bank branch is closed. You can also use it for online purchases and payments through your bank's website or app.

Will my direct deposit post on MLK Day?

Direct deposits scheduled for MLK Day typically post on the next business day instead. Check with your employer or the organization sending the deposit to confirm the exact timing for your account.

What if I need to speak to someone at my bank on MLK Day?

Call your bank's customer service line. Most banks staff their phone lines even on holidays, though wait times may be longer. You can also use online chat or messaging through your bank's app if available.

Do credit unions close on MLK Day?

Most credit unions close on MLK Day, but policies vary. Contact your credit union directly to confirm their holiday hours. Some may offer limited services or keep one location open.

Can I still pay bills online on MLK Day?

Yes. Online bill payments and transfers between your own accounts work on MLK Day through your bank's website or app. The payment may not process until the next business day, depending on when you submit it.