Wells Fargo is closed on Columbus Day in most of the United States

Wells Fargo branches are closed on Columbus Day, which falls on the second Monday of October each year. This is a federal holiday, and Wells Fargo observes it the same way most major banks do — by closing all branch locations and not processing transactions that day.

However, you can still access your money through ATMs and online banking on Columbus Day. If you need to do something that requires a teller or a banker — deposit a check, withdraw cash, open an account, or speak to someone about a problem — you will need to wait until the next business day.

Key Takeaways

  • All Wells Fargo branches close on Columbus Day, which is the second Monday in October.
  • ATMs and Wells Fargo's online banking platform remain available 24/7, even when branches are closed.
  • Checks deposited through mobile deposit or ATM on Columbus Day may not post until the following business day.
  • If you need to speak with someone at the bank, plan to visit on Tuesday or call during regular hours the next business day.

What you can and cannot do on Columbus Day

On Columbus Day, you cannot walk into a Wells Fargo branch and speak to an employee. You also cannot process transactions that require a teller, such as depositing cash, withdrawing large amounts, or getting a cashier's check. Wire transfers and other services that need manual processing will not go through that day.

What you can do: withdraw cash from any Wells Fargo ATM, check your balance, transfer money between your own accounts online, pay bills through online banking, and deposit checks using the Wells Fargo mobile app (though the deposit will not post until the next business day). You can also use ATM deposit envelopes if your branch has them, but again, the deposit will not be processed until Tuesday.

When Columbus Day closures affect your money

If you deposit a check on Columbus Day — whether through an ATM, mobile app, or by mailing it — the bank will not process it that day. The deposit will sit in a queue and post on Tuesday morning. This matters if you are counting on that money to be available by a certain date.

Wire transfers and ACH transfers (transfers to other banks) that you initiate on Columbus Day will also wait until Tuesday to process. If you are sending money to pay a bill that is due on Tuesday, do not wait until Monday to send it. The same applies to checks you write: if you mail a check on Monday, it will not clear until after the holiday.

Direct deposits from your employer or government benefits will not arrive on Columbus Day. If your payday or benefit payment is scheduled for Columbus Day, it will arrive on Tuesday instead.

Planning ahead for Columbus Day

If you know you will need cash or need to deposit something on or around Columbus Day, plan a day or two ahead. Visit your branch on Friday or Saturday before the holiday to withdraw cash or deposit checks. This way, your money will be available when you need it.

If you are expecting a paycheck or benefit payment on Columbus Day, assume it will arrive on Tuesday. If you have bills due on Monday, pay them before the holiday using online banking or by mailing a check earlier in the week.

Contacting Wells Fargo if you have an urgent problem

If something goes wrong with your account on Columbus Day — such as fraudulent charges or a locked account — you can call Wells Fargo's customer service line. The number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank statements. Customer service is available seven days a week, including holidays, though wait times may be longer on Columbus Day.

If your issue is not urgent, you can also send a message through Wells Fargo's online banking platform or mobile app. A representative will respond during business hours on Tuesday.

States that do not observe Columbus Day

A small number of states do not recognize Columbus Day as a holiday. In Hawaii, the day is called Aloha Festivals Day. In South Dakota, it is Native American Day. In Alaska, it is Alaska Day. However, Wells Fargo still closes on the second Monday of October nationwide, regardless of what your state calls the day or whether it is an official state holiday.

This is because Wells Fargo is a national bank regulated by federal law, and federal holidays explore to all branches across the country. Even if your state does not observe Columbus Day, your local Wells Fargo branch will still be closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Wells Fargo debit card on Columbus Day?

Yes. You can use your debit card at any store, restaurant, or ATM on Columbus Day. The only thing you cannot do is visit a Wells Fargo branch in person or speak to a banker.

Will my paycheck arrive on Columbus Day?

No. Direct deposits do not process on federal holidays. If your employer normally deposits your paycheck on Columbus Day, it will arrive on Tuesday instead. Check with your employer if you are unsure of your normal payday.

What if I need to deposit a check urgently?

Use the Wells Fargo mobile app to deposit the check on Columbus Day. The photo deposit will be processed on Tuesday morning. If you need the money before then, you will need to visit a branch on Friday or Saturday before the holiday.

Are Wells Fargo ATMs open on Columbus Day?

Yes. All Wells Fargo ATMs are open 24/7, including on Columbus Day. You can withdraw cash, check your balance, and deposit checks using the ATM envelope, though the deposit will not post until the next business day.

Can I call Wells Fargo customer service on Columbus Day?

Yes. Wells Fargo customer service is available seven days a week, including federal holidays. Call the number on the back of your card or on your statement. Wait times may be longer than usual because of the holiday.