As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1, funding for many federal government operations has lapsed. I supported a package passed by the House that would extend current funding until November 21, 2025, but the proposal did not pass the Senate.
Many essential services, like Social Security payments, will still be provided as Congress works toward a solution. Federal agencies closing operations are still working on their shutdown plans.
The U.S. Congress must pass annual appropriations measures in order to fund federal government agencies by October 1. On September 19, I supported a measure that passed the House of Representatives extending current federal funding until November 21 while we finish our work for the full fiscal year. This was a clean, straightforward extension of existing funding without extraneous policy.
Unfortunately this proposal did not pass the Senate, as Senate Democrats blocked the measure and shut down the government. This means that many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Other programs deemed essential are allowed by law to continue.
What is a government shutdown?
Congress must pass funding bills each year to keep agencies operating. If those bills, or a temporary extension, aren’t passed, the government shuts down. Federal employees may be furloughed (sent home without pay) or required to work without pay until funding resumes. Each agency has its own contingency plan, so impacts vary.
Can I still get help from your office?
Yes. My team will remain available to assist you. While some agencies will pause or delay processing, we can continue opening cases, submitting paperwork, and pressing for updates.
How long will a shutdown last?
The length of a shutdown depends on how quickly Congress can agree on funding. Some past shutdowns have lasted only a few days, while others stretched for several weeks. The longer it continues, the more services and benefits are disrupted.
What kinds of services will continue?
While the programs listed below will continue, the agencies responsible for administering them may see reduced workforces impacting operations. This is not a comprehensive list as we are continuing to gather information.
Social Security payments, including SSI benefits
Medicare and Medicaid benefits
VA medical care and benefits (although some regional offices may be closed)
SNAP benefits (although a prolonged shutdown could create disruptions)
Disability payments
Mail delivery
Federal law enforcement and military operations
Air travel
Federal employee retirement payments
Student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans
Visits to national Smithsonian Museums (until at least Monday, October 6)
Visa and passport services (although longer wait times are possible)
Additional Impacts to Be Aware Of
Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid
Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits will continue.
New applications, verifications, or communications may face delays.
Veterans (VA Services)
Continue: Health care, prescriptions, and benefit payments.
Paused: GI Bill call centers, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) services, Transition Assistance Programs, and cemetery services (including headstone installations and grounds maintenance).
Military Pay Active-duty service members and essential defense personnel will continue working, but paychecks will be delayed until funding is restored.
Food Assistance (SNAP & WIC)
SNAP: Benefits will continue for now, but a prolonged shutdown could cause disruptions.
WIC: Funding may run out quickly, disrupting food access for parents and children.
Passports Passport and visa processing will continue as long as funds are available, but operations may slow down due to reduced staffing. Expect longer wait times for appointments and processing. If a passport agency is located in a federally run building that closes, that location will not be able to process applications until funding is restored.
Mail Delivery The U.S. Postal Service will continue operating as usual.
Housing Loans The Federal Housing Administration will stop approving new loan applications, creating delays for purchases, refinancing, and development.
Small Business Loans The Small Business Administration will not accept or approve new business loan applications during a shutdown.
Flood Insurance (NFIP) The program will lapse. Current policyholders can still file claims, but no new policies will be issued. This could affect about 1,300 home sales per day in flood-prone areas.
Taxes
Tax filing deadlines remain in place, including the October 15 extension deadline. The IRS is expected to continue processing returns and refunds.
Student Loans & Financial Aid
Pell Grants and Direct Federal Student Loans will continue for now.
FAFSA processing and loan servicing will operate on a limited basis.
A prolonged shutdown could disrupt funding for schools and universities.
FEMA Emergency response will continue, but long-term recovery projects will be delayed.
Tours and Travel
All tours of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and FBI will be canceled.
National parks and memorials may remain open without staffing, meaning restrooms, visitor centers, maintenance, and rescue services will be limited. Please plan ahead if traveling.
Resources for Federal Employees
As agencies shut down, federal employees will either be furloughed, or in some cases required to work without pay. Under federal law, employees are entitled to back pay upon the government reopening.
