Are Banks Closed on Veterans Day? What You Need to Know

Are Banks Closed on Veterans Day? Veterans Day, observed each year on November 11, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring U.S. military veterans. Since it’s an official holiday, many Americans wonder about bank closures. Understanding how Veterans Day affects bank hours can help you manage your finances smoothly and avoid unexpected disruptions.

In this guide, we’ll explore why banks close on Veterans Day, which services remain available, and tips to prepare your finances in advance.

Keynotes

• Veterans Day is a federal holiday; most banks close on November 11.

• Online banking, ATMs, and customer service hotlines usually remain available.

• Smaller branches or those in retail locations may have limited hours—check locally.

• Complete withdrawals, payments, and transfers before Veterans Day to avoid disruptions.

• Originally called Armistice Day, Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans and their service.

1. Are Banks Closed on Veterans Day?

Yes, most banks are closed on Veterans Day, one of the ten federal holidays in the U.S. This closure honors the contributions and sacrifices of veterans. Major banks, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, and Citibank, typically close their branches in observance.

Some branches located in retail stores or malls may have varied hours, and community banks or credit unions occasionally make exceptions. It’s best to check with your local branch if you need in-person services on Veterans Day.

2. Why Do Banks Close on Veterans Day?

Veterans Day is not just any holiday—it’s a federal day of tribute dedicated to all U.S. military veterans. Observing this day is a gesture of respect for the bravery and sacrifices of those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

For banks and federal institutions, Veterans Day closures allow employees to take part in the day’s ceremonies or to reflect on the holiday’s significance. As federally regulated institutions, most banks observe federal holidays, giving their employees time to honor veterans.

3. What Services Are Available When Banks Are Closed?

Even though banks close on Veterans Day, many essential services remain accessible. Here’s a breakdown of what’s still available on November 11:

Online and Mobile Banking:

Accessing your bank’s website or mobile app allows you to manage your account, transfer funds, check balances, and pay bills. These services remain unaffected by the holiday closure, making them a convenient option for Veterans Day.

ATMs:

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are available 24/7, allowing you to deposit or withdraw cash, transfer funds between accounts, or check balances. Most banks have a network of ATMs, and many offer ATM locators on their apps and websites.

Customer Service Hotlines:

Many banks operate customer service hotlines that may still be reachable, although hours may vary. Automated phone banking services typically operate round-the-clock, allowing customers to handle simple transactions by phone.

By using online banking and ATMs, you can still manage routine tasks without needing to visit a branch in person on Veterans Day.

4. Are Any Banks Open on Veterans Day?

While most major banks close for Veterans Day, there are a few exceptions to note. Some banks, particularly smaller community branches or those located inside retail outlets like grocery stores or large chains, may have limited hours on Veterans Day. Credit unions sometimes also make their holiday schedules, depending on their policies.

If you urgently need in-person banking services, call ahead to confirm if your local branch is open or if an alternate location is available. Many bank websites provide holiday hours in advance, so checking online may be a quick way to confirm.

5. Planning Financial Tasks Around Veterans Day

If you’re aware that most banks are closed on Veterans Day, you can plan your financial tasks accordingly to avoid interruptions. Here are some practical steps to manage your finances before and during the holiday:

• Withdraw Cash Ahead of Time: If you know you’ll need cash on Veterans Day, visit your bank’s ATM or branch a day or two in advance to ensure you’re prepared.
• Schedule Important Payments Early: If you have bills due around Veterans Day, consider scheduling payments in advance. This ensures they’re processed on time, as some transactions may be delayed due to the holiday.
• Use Mobile Banking for Transfers: Many banks allow you to transfer funds between accounts via their app or website. If you’re unable to visit a branch on Veterans Day, these digital tools are a great alternative.

6. Other Federal Holidays That Impact Bank Hours

Veterans Day is one of the several federal holidays when banks typically close. Understanding other federal holidays with similar closures can help you stay prepared year-round. Banks are generally closed on the following federal holidays:

• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Presidents Day
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day
• Columbus Day
• Thanksgiving Day
• Christmas Day

Being mindful of these dates can help you anticipate bank closures and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.

7. Veterans Day and Financial Institutions Beyond Banks

Beyond traditional banks, other financial institutions like the U.S. Postal Service and many credit unions close on Veterans Day. While retail stores generally remain open, other essential government services are affected. Here’s how some key services operate:

• Postal Services: The U.S. Postal Service is closed, so there’s no regular mail delivery on Veterans Day. Private courier services like FedEx and UPS may have limited services, so it’s wise to check their schedules in advance.
• Stock Markets: Interestingly, both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ typically remain open on Veterans Day. While banks and government services close, the stock market continues regular operations, as it does on other federal holidays like Columbus Day.

Knowing which services are available on Veterans Day allows you to plan around any interruptions.

8. Understanding the Significance of Veterans Day

Veterans Day is dedicated to honoring all U.S. veterans and recognizing their service and sacrifices. Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday commemorates the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Over time, Armistice Day evolved into Veterans Day, expanding to honor veterans from all conflicts and military branches. The day encourages Americans to remember the sacrifices of veterans and reflect on the values of courage, duty, and service.

9. Veterans Day Financial Tips

To make the most of Veterans Day bank closures, here are a few extra financial tips:

• Confirm Holiday Hours in Advance: Check your bank’s website or contact your local branch to confirm Veterans Day hours and any potential changes.
• Be Aware of Processing Delays: Transactions initiated on Veterans Day may take longer to process due to closures. If you have urgent transactions, complete them beforehand.
• Locate Fee-Free ATMs: Many banks charge fees for using out-of-network ATMs, so it’s helpful to know where fee-free ATMs are located. Check your bank’s app for an ATM locator tool to avoid extra fees.

10. Final Thoughts on Veterans Day Bank Closures

So, are banks closed on Veterans Day? Yes, most banks observe Veterans Day as a federal holiday. However, with digital banking tools, you can still manage many essential tasks. By planning, you can ensure that bank closures don’t interfere with your financial needs and make Veterans Day a time for gratitude and reflection.

This Veterans Day, remember the importance of honoring veterans and their sacrifices. Through responsible planning and thoughtful gestures, you can celebrate Veterans Day meaningfully while staying prepared financially.

Disclaimer:

This blog provides general information on bank closures for Veterans Day. Please verify directly with your bank for specific holiday schedules.