New Year’s Day often brings celebration, but it also brings confusion to bank customers. In 2026, January 1 falls on a Thursday, and many people want to know if banks will be open or closed on that day.
The answer is simple, January 1, 2026, is not a nationwide bank holiday. Banks will remain open in most parts of India. However, a few states will observe a holiday.
The Reserve Bank of India follows a state-specific holiday system. This means bank closures depend on local festivals and observances.
Bank Holiday Today: Is January 1, 2026, a Bank Holiday?
Yes, but only in select states.
Under the Negotiable Instruments Act, some states observe a bank holiday on January 1 due to New Year’s Day and Gaan-Ngai celebrations. In these regions, bank branches will remain closed.
In all other states, banks will function normally.
States Where Banks Will Remain Closed on January 1, 2026
As per the RBI holiday calendar, bank branches will stay shut on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in the following states:
- Mizoram
- Tamil Nadu
- Sikkim
- Manipur
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nagaland
- West Bengal
- Meghalaya
Customers in these states should plan branch visits.
Bank Holiday Today: Where Banks Will Stay Open on New Year’s Day
Banks will remain open in most Indian states and Union Territories on January 1, 2026.
Customers can visit branches for:
- Cash deposits and withdrawals
- Cheque submissions
- Loan-related work
- KYC updates
- Account-related services
Still, it is advisable to confirm timings with your local branch to avoid inconvenience.
Digital Banking Will Work Without Disruption
Even where branches remain closed, digital banking services will continue as usual.
Customers can use:
- UPI payments
- Internet banking
- Mobile banking apps
- ATM services
- Online bill payments
- Fund transfers
These services remain available 24/7, even on bank holidays.
Bank Services That May Face Delay
On bank holidays, branch-dependent services may slow down. These include:
- Cheque clearance
- Passbook updates
- Cash deposits at counters
- Physical documentation work
If you need any of these services, plan your visit before or after the holiday.
Why Bank Holidays Differ Across States
Bank holidays in India vary by state. The RBI prepares its calendar based on:
- Regional festivals
- Cultural events
- Local observances
- National holidays
That is why a bank may be open in one state and closed in another on the same day.
Other Bank Holidays in January 2026
Apart from January 1, banks may remain closed in different states during January for:
- Gaan-Ngai
- Mannam Jayanthi
- Birthday of Hazrat Ali
- Birthday of Swami Vivekananda
- Makar Sankranti / Magh Bihu
- Pongal and related festivals
- Thiruvalluvar Day
- Uzhavar Thirunal
- Birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
- Saraswati Puja
- Republic Day
Banks will also remain closed on Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays.
What Customers Should Do
Check the RBI’s state-wise holiday list before visiting a branch. Confirm timings with your local bank, and use digital services whenever possible.
Planning can help you avoid delays and start the New Year smoothly.
