Is Memorial Day a Federal Holiday?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the last Monday of May. Federal offices, banks, and many government agencies are closed. Most federal employees receive the day off with regular pay.
Do Private Employers Give the Day Off?
Private employers are not required to give Memorial Day off. Many businesses close or operate with reduced hours, but retail, healthcare, transportation, and hospitality workers often stay on the job. Whether employees receive extra pay depends on company policy and state rules.
How Does Memorial Day Affect Pay and Overtime?
Non-exempt workers who work on Memorial Day may be entitled to overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Some employers offer holiday premiums or compensatory time. The U.S. Department of Labor provides general guidance on holiday pay rules at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd.
