Columbus Day brings a mix of celebration, debate, and confusion every October. Banks and their customers especially face a simple question: Are banks open or closed on Columbus Day? Let’s clear up the facts so you know what to expect ahead of the holiday.
What Is Columbus Day and When Is It Observed?
Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States, celebrated on the second Monday in October. In 2025, Columbus Day falls on October 13.
The holiday marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's landing in the Americas. Some communities also recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead, reflecting changing perspectives on history. But whatever you call it, the date can affect your access to banking and financial services.
Photo by cottonbro studio
Are Banks Closed on Columbus Day?
Most banks close their doors on Columbus Day.
Columbus Day is one of the official federal holidays in the country, and most major financial institutions follow the Federal Reserve’s holiday calendar. This means:
- In-person services such as lobby banking, in-branch deposits, and withdrawals are not available.
- Online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs remain available for self-service needs.
Banks that close on Columbus Day include the big names—Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and others. They use the closure for administrative updates and give their employees a paid holiday.
Exceptions: Some Banks May Stay Open
Not all banks shut down completely. Some smaller or regional banks, credit unions, or branches inside grocery stores might choose to remain open, especially in areas where Columbus Day is not recognized as a state holiday.
Check your bank’s website or call ahead to confirm specific branch operating hours. Bank policies can differ even within the same city.
How Bank Closures on Columbus Day Affect Your Money
When banks close for Columbus Day, it’s not just the front doors that lock.
Delays on Financial Transactions
- Direct deposits: Scheduled payments may not clear until the next business day.
- Wire transfers and ACH transactions: These won’t be processed on Columbus Day; expect a delay until Tuesday.
- Bill payments: Any payments submitted on Columbus Day won’t process until banks reopen.
Scheduled payrolls and business transactions can also hit a 24-hour pause, especially if they rely on wire or ACH processing handled by the Federal Reserve.
ATM, Online, and Mobile Banking
You still have access to basic account functions:
- Checking balances
- Mobile check deposit
- Internal transfers between accounts
Automated services don’t pause, but behind-the-scenes processing for transfers and deposits might. Your balance may show the transaction, but actual funds may not move until regular business resumes.
Why Do Some Banks Stay Open?
Bank holidays are not required by federal law—most banks close, but it's not mandatory. For some businesses, especially those in grocery stores or high-traffic retail centers, staying open serves customers who depend on face-to-face service.
It’s a smart idea to call ahead or look for posted holiday hours, especially if you bank with a credit union or regional chain.
What About the Stock Market and the Post Office?
Stock Markets: NYSE and NASDAQ stay open on Columbus Day, so you can trade stocks and manage investments like any other Monday.
Post Office: USPS closes on Columbus Day—no regular mail service or deliveries. Private carriers like FedEx and UPS may operate but sometimes with modified schedules.
Holidays That Cause Bank Closures (and Why It Matters)
Besides Columbus Day, banks close for several other federal holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Presidents’ Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Each of these dates can interrupt your normal financial routine. Holiday closures cause ripple effects in payroll, electronic payments, and bill schedules.
Planning Ahead for Columbus Day
To avoid stress and missed payments:
1. Schedule transactions early.
- Move direct deposits, bill payments, or wire transfers ahead by a business day if possible.
2. Check your bank’s holiday schedule.
- Look on your bank’s website or call your local branch.
3. Use digital tools.
- Online and mobile banking are available 24/7 for most account needs.
4. Know your local options.
- If you need in-person service, see if any area banks or credit unions are staying open.
Conclusion
Columbus Day is a federal holiday, and most banks and credit unions close for the day. This can delay transfers and other key transactions, so it’s smart to plan before the second Monday in October.
For quick day-to-day banking, turn to your bank’s online and mobile tools. If you need to visit a branch, call ahead so you’re not left waiting outside. A little preparation saves time and keeps your money moving, no matter what the calendar says.
What’s your experience with banking on holidays like Columbus Day? Share your tips or stories in the comments below!