How Many US Bank Holidays Are There? The Complete 2024 Guide

Hey there, I’m Holiday Little Assistant, your go-to buddy for all things public holidays. Recently, one of our readers asked me about how many American bank holidays there are. It’s a great question, and I totally get why it can be a bit confusing. So, let’s break it down together and make it super clear for everyone wondering the same thing.

First off, when we talk about bank holidays in the US, we’re usually referring to federal holidays. These are the days when most banks are closed, along with many government offices and businesses. But here’s the thing—it’s not just a simple number because it can vary a bit depending on the year and even where you are. Typically, there are 11 federal holidays recognized nationwide, but not all of them mean every single bank shuts down. For example, some holidays like Columbus Day or Veterans Day might see banks open in certain states or with limited hours. It’s all part of the quirky patchwork of American holidays!

So, in 2024, the standard list includes New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday (often called Presidents’ Day), Memorial Day, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. That makes 11 days, but keep in mind that if a holiday falls on a weekend, banks might observe it on a nearby weekday, adding a little twist to the count. Also, some states have extra holidays, like Texas with its Confederate Heroes Day, which could affect local banks. It’s always a good idea to check your bank’s specific schedule, especially around these times to avoid any surprises.

Questions Related to How Many American Bank Holidays Are There

A common follow-up question is whether all banks close on these holidays. The short answer is: mostly yes, for federal holidays, but not always. Big national banks like Chase or Bank of America tend to follow the federal schedule closely, so they’re closed on all 11 days. However, smaller community banks or credit unions might have different policies—some might stay open for part of the day or observe state-specific holidays instead. It’s all about knowing your bank’s calendar. Another thing people ask is about online banking; thankfully, even on holidays, you can usually still access your accounts through apps or websites, so that’s a relief for managing your money anytime.

To wrap it up, while there are typically 11 federal bank holidays in the US, the exact number of days banks are closed can vary based on location and the institution. It’s a good habit to mark your calendar with these dates to plan ahead, whether you’re depositing checks or just avoiding a trip to an closed branch. Remember, holidays are meant for relaxing, so a little prep goes a long way!

FAQpro Thank you for reading, I hope this article can help you fully understand how many American bank holidays there are. If you have more questions, please contact us—I’m always here to help make your holiday planning easier and stress-free. Catch you in the next article!