Will I still receive my Social Security or Medicare benefits?
- Yes, current beneficiaries will continue to receive Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits as they are mandatory programs. However, customer service or processing delays may occur.
Will Veterans’ services be impacted?
- Most veterans’ health services will continue, but some administrative functions, such as processing new claims or benefits, could experience delays. All Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities and clinics will remain fully operational. Military and federal retirees will continue to receive their retirement benefits.
Will SNAP and WIC benefits still be available?
- The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is generally expected to continue providing benefits in the event of a government shutdown, but the program's long-term stability can be affected if the shutdown is prolonged. The USDA estimates that WIC has enough funding for the short term and will begin seeing disruptions on October 15th if Congress hasn't passed a CR or Appropriations by then. WIC families should continue to use their benefits and attend appointments until the program's funding runs out.
I’m a federal employee. What should I expect during a government shutdown?
- Each Federal agency is required to classify its employees as "excepted" or "not excepted." The employees classified as "excepted" will work without pay during the shutdown. The employees classified as "not excepted" are put on unpaid furlough.
- Essential employees, Border Patrol, TSA, military, and certain health/safety staff are expected to continue working, but may not be paid until the government reopens.
I’m an active duty military member. What should I expect during a government shutdown?
- Military personnel on active duty, including active guard reserves, will continue their duty. However, no new orders may be issued except for extenuating circumstances, such as disaster response or national security. Some National Guard members serving through federal funding could have their orders terminated unless performing an essential duty.
Will I still receive my mail?
- Yes, the U.S. Postal Service continues to operate during a shutdown.
What happens in the event of an emergency?
- FEMA will be permitted to respond to emergencies, but long-term projects may experience delays.
I have travel plans. Should I reschedule or cancel my trip?
- Air traffic control services will continue. However, travelers may face delays and backlogs. It is recommended to add extra time to get through security and the airport.
I need a new passport, visa, or help with a Federal Agency. Can I still get help?
- The State Department will still issue passports and visas as operations are largely fee-funded, allowing many services to continue even during a shutdown. My office will remain open and able to assist with cases, but wait time may be delayed. My office will not be able to process flag requests at this time.
I have a trip scheduled to DC. Can I still come?
- You’re welcome to explore our nation’s Capitol, including open-air parks and monuments. Tours of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and FBI Building are canceled during a shutdown. National Parks and Smithsonian Museums may also be impacted. Smithsonian Museums' funds have been depleted and will reopen once the government reopens. This includes the National Zoo.
I am a small business owner with SBA loans. Can I still operate?
- Yes, but the Small Business Administration (SBA) ceases operating its core lending and investment programs. Federal contracts may be unavailable. SBA’s Disaster Loan Program will continue regular operations.
How will the shutdown impact my immigration application?
- USCIS is primarily fee-funded, so most operations continue. Form filings (H-1B, L-1, I-140, I-485, etc.) will continue. Premium Processing is expected to remain available. Programs reliant on appropriated funds, like E-Verify, will be suspended.
What happens with my student loans?
- Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans will continue until funds run out. Private student loans are unaffected.
I receive housing/rent assistance. What should I do?
- If you currently receive housing assistance (Section 8, project-based rental, public housing, USDA rural rental), continue paying your rent and following lease terms. Most existing payments continue short-term; some admin services may be delayed.
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