US Elections 2024: Will banks, post offices and FedEx be closed on November 5th? | Everything you need to know

On Tuesday, November 5th, American voters will make the final decision on who will be the next US President between candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Although several states allow employees to take time off to vote on Election Day, questions often arise as to whether services or organizations will remain closed.

Read also: US election 2024 explained: The A-Z of what matters most

Election Day is not a federal holiday, but five states – New York, Maryland, West Virginia, Hawaii and Illinois – have designated November 5th as a federal holiday to allow employees to take time off work and vote.

Read also: HT Exclusive: Indians in US speak out on issues that will decide 'desi' vote, immigration tops list

New Jersey, Delaware, Rhode Island, Virginia, Michigan, Montana, Louisiana, Kentucky and Indiana have also declared a holiday, although employees are not required to vote on that day.

Here's everything you need to know about what services will be available on Election Day:

• Post offices, United Parcel Service (UPS) and FedEx courier services will be available starting November 5th.

Read also: US election: Ahead of the results, here are 10 House races to keep an eye on

• Banks across the country will remain open on Election Day, although certain branches may be closed, it said NBC New York. It is recommended to check whether certain branches are open in your area before visiting.
• Schools may remain closed on November 5 in several states. Major cities such as New York, Washington DC and Chicago have announced that schools will remain closed or that students will be required to stay away from class on this day.
• In the federal states that have declared Election Day a public holiday, most state administrations and courts will remain closed.
• Public transport such as buses and trains will continue to operate on November 5th.

More than 160 million voters are expected to cast their ballots by November 5, in a tight race between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Early voting has already begun in several states.