Quick answer
Yes, many US bank branches are closed on Columbus Day. In 2026, Columbus Day falls on Monday, 12 October 2026. Federal Reserve Financial Services, except the FedNow Service, close for the holiday. Individual banks and branches can set their own customer-opening hours, so check your specific location before visiting.
What this means
Columbus Day is a federal holiday observed on the second Monday in October. In 2026, it falls on Monday, 12 October. Federal Reserve Financial Services, excluding the FedNow Service, are closed for the holiday, which affects payment and settlement services that rely on those systems.
In practical terms:
- Many bank branches will be closed.
- Federal Reserve Financial Services, except the FedNow Service, are closed on 12 October 2026.
- FedACH processing ends at 3:00 a.m. ET on 10 October 2026 and resumes at 5:30 p.m. ET on 12 October 2026.
- Online banking, mobile apps, card payments and cash machines generally remain available, subject to each bank’s systems and policies.
- Deposits, transfers, bill payments and cheque processing may take longer when they depend on services unavailable during the holiday.
The federal holiday is officially designated Columbus Day. Some states, cities and other organizations use Indigenous Peoples’ Day or another name for the same date. Local naming and observance can affect government offices and schools, but they do not determine whether an individual bank branch opens.
Common scenarios
You need cash or routine account access. Complete any branch-only task before the holiday where possible. ATMs and digital banking may remain available, but they cannot replace every in-person service.
You are sending money. A transfer may be submitted electronically on the holiday but take longer to process if it relies on a Federal Reserve service that is closed. Check your bank’s cut-off times if the payment is time-sensitive.
You are depositing a cheque. Mobile or ATM deposits may still be available, but the date you submit a cheque is not necessarily the date the funds become available. Check your bank’s funds-availability policy.
You need a safe-deposit box, cashier’s cheque or face-to-face help. These services generally require branch access. Check the exact branch’s holiday hours before travelling.
You are planning time off. Columbus Day is a federal holiday, but private-sector employers are not generally required to give employees the day off. Confirm your employer’s holiday policy before arranging leave or travel.
How to plan this in Offdays
Mark 12 October 2026 in your shared calendar, especially if your team manages payroll, supplier payments or expense reimbursements. Schedule time-critical banking instructions before the holiday where possible and allow extra time when settlement depends on Federal Reserve services.
For leave planning, distinguish between a federal holiday, a company holiday and a local public-office closure. Your employer may remain open even when Federal Reserve services or some bank branches are closed. The US holiday guides can help teams compare dates, while the Offdays blog has broader planning guidance.
Final thoughts
Columbus Day falls on Monday, 12 October 2026, and Federal Reserve Financial Services, except the FedNow Service, close for the holiday. Many bank branches also close, although individual opening hours vary. Complete time-sensitive banking in advance and check your branch if you need an in-person service.