Frequently asked questions
Do I get paid for working on a federal holiday?
For federal government employees, working on a federal holiday means receiving holiday premium pay (typically double time). For private sector employees, there is no federal law requiring holiday pay. It depends entirely on your employer's policy and your employment agreement. Many private employers pay time-and-a-half for holiday work, but this is not legally required at the federal level.
Is Columbus Day a federal holiday in all states?
Columbus Day is a federal holiday and is observed by federal employees in all states. However, many states have officially replaced it with Indigenous Peoples' Day, including California, Oregon, Minnesota, and others. Some states observe both. The shift reflects growing recognition of the harm done to Native American peoples during European colonization.
What day does Christmas fall on in 2026?
Christmas Day (December 25) falls on a Friday in 2026, giving many workers a natural long weekend. In 2025, Christmas falls on a Thursday — many employers give both Thursday and Friday off, creating a 4-day weekend.
Are banks open on Veterans Day?
Most banks close on Veterans Day (November 11) since it's a federal holiday and banks follow Federal Reserve guidelines. However, some bank branches stay open with limited hours, especially in shopping centers. ATMs remain fully operational. Online banking and mobile banking are not affected. USPS does not deliver mail on Veterans Day.
What's the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?
Memorial Day (last Monday in May) specifically honors US military personnel who died while serving — it is a solemn day of remembrance. Veterans Day (November 11) honors all US military veterans, living and deceased, who served honorably. Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918.