Traditional Business Hours in the United States
In the United States, standard business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Companies don't close down for a break in the afternoon like many South American, Asian and European countries.
During the work week, most businesses will be open during the lunch hour (from 12 to 1 p.m.), although there are some instances where smaller shops will close. Here are some guidelines on when frequently used businesses will be open, but always check with the specific business either online or by calling if you have a question.
* Retail businesses like grocery, department and clothing stores are open every day of the week, but will close on some holidays. They are open later in the evenings to cater to commercial business workers. In larger cities, large supermarket stores are open 24/7.
* Banks usually are open Monday through Friday, but banking hours fluctuate depending on how large the bank. Some banks open to the public later than 8 a.m. or close earlier than 5 p.m. Larger banks might offer Saturday hours. If you need to visit the bank in person, check its hours online first. Many banks now offer online banking options, allowing you to do business with the bank any time of day or night. And of course, ATMs (automatic teller machines) are available practically everywhere if you need quick cash. Just be aware that most charge fees for using them.
* Restaurants and bars will vary in hours open. If the establishment serves breakfast, there's a good chance it will open very early in the morning. But if it only serves alcohol, you probably won't be able to get in until later in the afternoon. Communities set closing time requirements for establishments serving alcohol, and these times vary from city to city. Restaurants serving the evening meal tend to stay open until 10 p.m. on most nights often later on weekends. Be sure to check online for restaurant hours.
Businesses in the United States make every attempt to cater to customer schedules, so you probably won't be surprised by a closed business very often.
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