Election Day almost next to us. In a few hours, the final votes will be cast in the 2024 presidential election.

But this is not a federal holiday. Only five states, including New York, recognize Election Day as a public holiday and require employers to give employees paid time off to vote.

Nine other states, including New Jersey, recognize Election Day as a public holiday but do not enforce the requirement. Connecticut does not consider this a public holiday. Employers can of course make their own accommodations.

All this means that while people are heading to the polls to vote, others will be busy running errands as usual. Here’s a list of what’s open and closed on Election Day.

Are banks open on election day?

Election Day is not a federal holiday, which means most banks are open. However, some local branches may close, so be sure to check out the specific location before heading out.

Are schools open on Election Day?

In New York City, schools are closed on Election Day to facilitate voting as many have turned into polling stations. In New Jersey, most public school districts are also closed on Election Day. Check out this database for yourself here. As for private and parochial schools in the Garden State, it depends on their individual school calendars. Check them out here.

In Connecticut, this depends on each county. Some public school districts operate on a half-day basis. Others, like Hartford, chose to close. Check your local school calendar for the latest information.

Is the post office open on election day?

Yes, since it is not a federal holiday, the post office will be open and mail will be delivered as usual on Election Day.

Are cargo services open?

Yes. Shipping services like UPS and FedEx are open on Election Day. Offices are open and packages will be delivered.

Is the stock market open on election day?

Stock markets will remain open through Election Day.

Does public transport operate normally on election day?

Yes. NJ Transit, PATH, NYC subways and buses, Metro-North, Long Island Railroad, and other suburban transit options operate on a regular schedule for Election Day.

Are the courts open? What about the DMV?

Government offices in states that recognize Election Day as a public holiday, including New York and New Jersey, are closed for Election Day. This means the court system is closed and you won’t be able to find any appointments at the DMV. Other state administrative offices in New York and New Jersey are also closed. Many government offices will likely be open in Connecticut, which does not recognize Election Day as a public holiday.