Stepping into your first full-time job? Congrats! But as you scan the calendar, you might wonder: What exactly happens on a federal holiday? Do you get the day off? If you work, does your paycheck look different? And what’s the deal with Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Labor Day anyway?
Here, we’ll unravel the mysteries of paid federal holidays so you can enjoy your time off with confidence.
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What is a federal holiday?
There's no such thing as a dumb question here. A federal holiday is a designated day of national significance when federal government offices close, and most federal employees are given the day off. There are 11 federal holidays, honoring key historical events, cultural traditions, or figures in U.S. history.
The official list of federal holidays
Here’s the current lineup of federally recognized holidays in the U.S.:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
- Presidents Day (Third Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (First Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
The private sector twist: Not all federal holidays are paid federal holidays
Paid federal holidays are automatic for government workers, but private-sector employees play by different rules. If you work in the private sector (like most employees), it’s up to your employer to decide if federal holidays are recognized, whether you’ll get paid time off (PTO), or if federal holiday pay is offered for those who work.
While federal law doesn’t require companies to provide paid holidays, many do. Organizations often decide which holidays to recognize based on their industry. Retail and hospitality, for example, are more likely to stay open on days like Memorial Day, offering legal holiday pay (e.g., time and a half) instead of PTO. Some employers even add their own paid holidays to the mix, like Black Friday or Christmas Eve, to sweeten the deal.
Here’s what might be on the table at your workplace:
- Popular private sector holidays: Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Black Friday, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve.
- Seasonal closures: Some employers give floating holidays to use at your discretion or add extra days around Thanksgiving and the end of the year.
How federal holidays affect your pay
Let’s talk money! Since federal law doesn’t mandate holiday benefits for private-sector workers, it’s up to your company to decide. Some employers provide holiday pay for those who work, while others offer PTO or a mix of both.
Here are a couple scenarios you may encounter, but remember these vary depending on your company's policies and industry practices, so be sure to check your employee handbook or talk to HR:
- If you have the day off: You may receive your regular pay for the day, depending on your employer's policy.
- If you work the holiday: Some companies offer a federal holiday pay, which often means time and a half or even double time. For example, working on Memorial Day might mean a paycheck boost to make up for skipping the barbecue.
Employment status and PTO: How to know what you’re entitled to
Whether you’re working full-time, part-time, or as a contractor can affect your benefits. Not sure of your status? Review your contract, employee handbook, or ask HR directly. Here's a quick guide:
If you're a full-time employee:
Full-time workers are most likely to receive federal holiday pay as part of their benefits package. Many companies offer PTO for federal holidays, but you’ll want to confirm specifics like whether part-time holiday hours are prorated.
If you're a part-time employee:
Some employers extend holiday benefits to part-time workers, but not all do. Even when federal holiday pay is offered, it’s often prorated based on your schedule.
If you're a contractor or freelancer:
Independent contractors usually don’t receive paid federal holidays unless it’s specifically negotiated in their contract.
Make the most of your holidays
Federal holidays are a great chance to recharge and hopefully, get paid for it. Knowing your workplace policies ensures you can plan your schedule (and budget) with ease. Whether you’re clocking in on Christmas Eve or enjoying a long Memorial Day weekend, being informed is the best way to make the most of it.
FAQs
Is Martin Luther King Jr. Day a paid holiday?
Federal employees receive paid time off, but private-sector workers should check with their employer. If you work MLK Day, you might qualify for holiday pay like time and a half, or a floating PTO day to take another time.
What happens if I work on Christmas Day?
While Christmas is a federal holiday, private companies set their own rules for holiday pay. Many offer double pay or time and a half for working.
Does Veterans Day pay double?
Some employers may offer double pay for Veterans Day, but this isn’t required by law. Policies vary by company and industry.
Do federal holidays always mean time and a half?
No. Federal law doesn’t mandate time and a half for holidays. It’s an optional benefit offered by some employers.