Are banks closed on columbus day?

Columbus Day, observed every year on the second Monday in October, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas in 1492. In 2025, Columbus Day falls on Monday, October 13, and like many federal holidays, it raises an important question for many Americans: Are banks closed on Columbus Day?

The short answer is yes, most banks are closed on Columbus Day, but there are some exceptions. Understanding which institutions are affected, how banking services operate on holidays, and what alternatives are available can help you plan your financial activities without disruption.

Columbus Day: A Federal Holiday Overview

Columbus Day has been recognized as a federal holiday since 1937, although its origins go back much earlier. It honors the historic voyage of Christopher Columbus, who sailed across the Atlantic Ocean under the Spanish flag and reached the New World in 1492.

Over the years, Columbus Day has evolved into a day of cultural reflection and debate, with some states and cities choosing to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead, honoring the history and cultures of Native Americans.

Despite the varying ways the day is recognized, one thing remains consistent nationwide: it is a federal holiday. This means federal offices, courts, and many public institutions close their doors, including most banks, because they are regulated under federal systems.

Are Banks Closed on Columbus Day 2025?

Yes — the majority of banks in the United States will be closed on Columbus Day 2025 (Monday, October 13). Because Columbus Day is recognized as one of the 11 federal holidays, the Federal Reserve — which oversees the U.S. banking system — closes its offices and payment systems.

When the Federal Reserve is closed, banks typically follow suit because many of their core operations, including wire transfers and check clearances, rely on the Federal Reserve System.

Some of the major U.S. banks that will likely close on Columbus Day include:

• Bank of America

• Wells Fargo

• Chase Bank (JPMorgan Chase)

• Citibank

• U.S. Bank

• Truist Bank

• PNC Bank

• Regions Bank

• Fifth Third Bank

Although their physical branches will close, customers can still access many digital and ATM services, which we’ll explore in more detail below.

Exceptions: Banks That May Stay Open

While most large national banks close for Columbus Day, some banks and credit unions that operate within retail locations (like grocery stores or big-box stores) may remain open.

For example, TD Bank, which markets itself as “America’s Most Convenient Bank,” often remains open during certain federal holidays, including Columbus Day. However, this can vary by location.

Here are some examples of banks or services that might be open or partially operational:

• TD Bank: Many branches are open on Columbus Day, but hours may vary.

• American Bank branches in retail stores: Some remain open with limited hours.

• Online-only banks such as Ally Bank, Capital One 360, SoFi, or Chime remain accessible because they do not depend on physical branches.

It’s always smart to check your bank’s website or call ahead to confirm their holiday schedule, as hours can vary by region or branch.

Federal Reserve and Financial System Schedule

The Federal Reserve System determines the official bank holiday calendar for the U.S. In 2025, the Federal Reserve will be closed on the following 11 holidays:

1. New Year’s Day – January 1

2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 20

3. Presidents Day – February 17

4. Memorial Day – May 26

5. Juneteenth – June 19

6. Independence Day – July 4

7. Labor Day – September 1

8. Columbus Day – October 13

9. Veterans Day – November 11

10. Thanksgiving Day – November 27

11. Christmas Day – December 25

Because Columbus Day is on this list, federal payment systems such as Fedwire, FedACH, and check processing services are suspended for the day, meaning transactions that depend on them will not go through until the following business day.

How Columbus Day Bank Closures Affect You

If your bank is closed on Columbus Day, here are some key things to keep in mind:

1. Branch Services Are Unavailable

Physical bank branches will not open their doors, so you won’t be able to make in-person deposits, withdrawals, or speak directly with bank staff.

2. Online and Mobile Banking Still Work

Even when banks are closed, online and mobile services remain fully operational. You can:

• Check your balance

• Transfer money between accounts

• Deposit checks using mobile deposit

• Pay bills online

However, note that transactions involving another bank (like transfers or payments to an external account) may not process until the next business day.

3. ATM Services Are Available

Most banks keep their ATMs running 24/7, even on holidays. You can still withdraw cash, check balances, or deposit money. Keep in mind that large deposits may not be available immediately due to the Federal Reserve’s closure.

4. Direct Deposits and Bill Payments May Be Delayed

If you are expecting a direct deposit, wire transfer, or bill payment on Columbus Day, it may not post until Tuesday, October 14. Employers who pay on Mondays may issue payments earlier to avoid delays.

5. Stock Markets Are Open

Interestingly, while banks close for Columbus Day, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq remain open. So, trading activity continues as normal, even though the broader banking system pauses.

Other Businesses and Institutions

Here’s how other parts of daily life are affected by Columbus Day:

• Federal offices and courts: Closed.

• U.S. Postal Service (USPS): Closed; no mail delivery.

• UPS and FedEx: Both operate on Columbus Day, though FedEx Express may have modified service.

• Public schools: Varies by district — some close, others remain open.

• State and local offices: Vary by state; some states that recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day may still close government offices.

How to Plan Ahead for Columbus Day Bank Closures

To avoid financial disruptions, follow these simple steps before the holiday:

1. Complete Transfers Early – Move money or make payments a few days in advance.

2. Withdraw Cash Ahead of Time – If you’ll need cash over the long weekend, get it before Monday.

3. Schedule Bill Payments – Use online banking tools to schedule bills so they aren’t delayed.

4. Use Mobile Banking – You can still deposit checks or move funds between your own accounts.

5. Contact Customer Service Early – Support lines may be limited during the holiday.

Columbus Day vs. Indigenous Peoples’ Day

In recent years, many states and cities have begun observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of or alongside Columbus Day. The intent is to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native American peoples who lived in the Americas long before European exploration.

Regardless of the name used, the federal designation remains Columbus Day, meaning federal offices — and by extension, most banks — remain closed.