As Americans prepare for Martin Luther King Jr Day on Monday, January 19, 2026, the US is once again pausing to honour the civil rights leader’s legacy. MLK Day, observed on the third Monday of January each year, is a federal holiday, which means that many government agencies, financial institutions and markets will close for the day.
Banks and financial services on MLK Day 2026: Closed, with digital access available
Major banks across the United States will close their branches on January 19 in observance of MLK Day. These include:
- Bank of America,
- Chase,
- Citibank,
- Wells Fargo,
- PNC and
- US Bank
This also includes in-person services such as teller service, loan processing and notary assistance. However, customers can still use ATMs, mobile banking apps and online platforms to check balances, transfer funds and make basic transactions; any actions initiated on the holiday typically will not process until the next business day.
Postal services and delivery on MLK Day 2026: Mail suspended, FedEx partial operations
The US Postal Service (USPS) will observe MLK Day by shutting down all post offices and halting mail delivery on January 19. Residential and business mail will not be delivered and retail counters will be closed. All postal operations, including collection and delivery, are expected to resume on Tuesday, January 20.For private carriers, services vary:
UPS will suspend pickup and delivery services on MLK Day, and many UPS Store locations might also close.- FedEx, in contrast, is anticipated to have some operations open, with FedEx Office locations often available, though hours may differ by location.
Markets and government offices on MLK Day 2026: Federal holiday impact
Financial markets, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq, will be closed on MLK Day, with trading resuming Tuesday. Bond markets and over-the-counter trading also pause for the holiday.All federal, state and municipal government offices typically close for the holiday, including agencies like the Social Security Administration and Department of Motor Vehicles. Online services may remain accessible even when physical locations are shuttered.
US schools , libraries and local services on MLK Day 2026
Many public schools, libraries and non-essential government offices will be closed on MLK Day, though schedules can vary by district and state. Municipal services like trash collection or sanitation may be delayed or adjusted in some areas. Public transportation often runs on modified holiday schedules in major cities.For example, Houston’s Metro buses and rail systems will operate on a normal weekday timetable despite other closures.
What remains open in the US on MLK Day 2026
Despite widespread closures among banks and government institutions, many retailers, grocery stores and restaurants are expected to remain open on MLK Day, offering normal or extended hours. Some stores even use the holiday weekend to promote sales and attract shoppers taking advantage of the day off.Beyond closures and holiday logistics, Martin Luther King Jr Day is intended to be a day of service and remembrance, celebrating the life and achievements of Dr King, a leader whose advocacy for civil rights and nonviolent protest helped shape modern America. Community service projects, parades and educational events are often held across the country, offering opportunities for citizens to honour his legacy.
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