Bank Strike September 2026: SBI Advises Customers to Complete Branch Work Before September 28

Bank customers across India may face disruptions in branch-based services later this month as the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has announced a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to September 30, 2026.

The UFBU consists of seven major banking unions — AIBEA, AIBOC, NCBE, AIBOA, BEFI, INBOC and INBEF — and has stated that it represents more than 90% of the banking workforce.

State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an advisory asking customers to complete important branch-related work before the proposed strike dates. The bank has also advised customers to use digital banking channels and other available services during the period.

SBI Advisory: Complete Important Banking Work Early

SBI has requested customers to finish transactions and other banking activities that require branch visits before September 28. This includes work involving physical documents, certain cheque-related services and other facilities that require assistance from bank employees.

In its advisory, SBI said it is taking steps to maintain essential banking services during the strike period, although customers could experience some disruption depending on employee participation.

The bank has encouraged customers to use ATMs and Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs) for cash requirements. Customer Service Points (CSPs) may also provide alternatives for certain services.

Will UPI, Internet Banking and YONO Work?

Customers are expected to continue having access to digital banking options during the proposed strike. SBI has advised users to rely on Internet Banking, YONO, mobile banking and UPI for transactions that can be completed digitally.

However, services that require physical verification, documentation or direct assistance from branch staff may not be available through these digital channels. Customers with such requirements have therefore been advised to complete them before the strike begins.

For cash requirements, SBI has recommended planning ahead and using ATMs, ADWMs and eligible CSP services where available.

Why Are Bank Unions Planning the Strike?

The proposed strike is linked to demands raised by the banking unions, including the introduction of a five-day banking system and concerns regarding the proposed Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) structure for certain officers.

According to the unions’ September programme, a three-day strike has been proposed from September 28 to September 30.

The unions have also announced a proposed indefinite strike from October 26, 2026, if their demands remain unresolved.

The unions have said that the issue of five-day banking was discussed during the 12th Bipartite Settlement and 9th Joint Note. They have also raised concerns about a separate PLI arrangement for senior officers.

Will SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda and Other Banks Be Affected?

The proposed strike is not limited to SBI. Since the action has been called by the UFBU and its seven constituent unions, banking operations at participating lenders could be affected.

The level of disruption will depend on employee participation at individual banks and branches. Customers of SBI, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda and other participating banks should therefore complete urgent branch-dependent work before the strike period.

Digital transactions such as UPI and online banking can provide alternatives for services that are available through electronic channels, while branch-dependent activities may face delays.

Could There Be a Five-Day Gap in Branch Services?

The timing of the proposed strike could create a longer period of limited branch availability for some customers. September 26 and 27 fall on the weekend, followed by the proposed strike from September 28 to September 30.

This could effectively create a five-day period from September 26 through September 30 during which regular branch access may be limited. However, this does not mean that digital banking services will necessarily remain unavailable throughout the entire period.

Customers who need branch assistance should ideally complete their urgent work before the weekend and make arrangements for cash and other banking requirements in advance.

Disclaimer

The proposed strike dates, participating banks and extent of service disruption may change depending on developments and subsequent decisions by banks or employee unions. Customers should check the latest official communication from their respective bank before scheduling important transactions or branch-dependent services.