New Year's Day is one of eleven federal holidays recognized nationwide by the United States Government. All non-essential federal government offices are closed on New Year's Day, and all federal employees are paid even if they receive the day off. Many private-sector employees will also receive paid time off or special holiday pay on New Year's Day.

New Year's day is observed on the first day of the Gregorian calendar. It is celebrated every January 1st, and has been a federal holiday since 1885.