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Government Shutdown

Federal Government Shutdown Resources & FAQs

Government funding has ran out and we’re facing a government shutdown. 

Democrats have made clear that we support government funding legislation that reverses Republicans’ devastating health care cuts and maintains vital Affordable Care Act aid that millions of Americans rely on. We are ready, willing, and able to reach a bipartisan agreement that keeps the government open, but we will not rubber stamp Republicans’ partisan spending bill that causes health care premiums to soar. In the meantime, I want you and your family to have the information you need if we do enter into a shutdown.

This page answers many questions you may have--we’ll keep it updated as new information comes in. My offices in Delray Beach and Washington D.C. are always here to help, even during a shutdown.

What is a government shutdown?

Each year, Congress must pass legislation to fund the government. If we don’t sign a new budget into law, or at least a short-term continuing resolution (CR) to maintain current funding levels, the government shuts down.

Every federal agency has its own plan for how to operate during a shutdown. Some services keep running, others pause, and many federal employees are told to stay home without pay until funding is restored.

How does this affect you?

Essential services that will remain in place:

  • Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits are not affected. You may run into delays applying for new benefits or contacting the specific agencies, as workers will be put on leave. 

  • Mail delivery continues through the U.S. Postal Service.

  • Military and law enforcement still report for duty.

  • Air travel remains open. TSA officers and air traffic controllers continue working, though lines may be longer at the airport.

  • Veterans’ health care remains available at VA facilities.

Services that may be impacted:

  • New Social Security cards or claims processing may be delayed.

  • Food assistance programs like WIC and, eventually, SNAP may pause benefits if the shutdown drags on.

  • The Federal Housing Administration will most likely continue endorsing single-family mortgage loans, but with reduced capacity and expected delays.

  • Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing operating subsidies, and multifamily assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development could be impacted as funding runs out.

  • The SBA will not be approving new small business loans.

  • Federal research, inspections, and disaster recovery projects will be put on pause.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get help from a federal agency?

Many hotlines and service desks may shut down or be short-staffed. My office can still assist with casework on your behalf and keep track of updates as agencies reopen. Please don’t hesitate to call us at 561-998-9045.

Will furloughed employees get paid back?

Yes. By law, all federal employees—both those furloughed and those working without pay—are guaranteed back pay once the shutdown ends.

Will I keep getting my Social Security check?

Yes, Social Security checks still go out. You may face delays applying for new benefits.

Will I still get my tax refund?

In past shutdowns, tax refunds have been delayed. IRS call centers, tax help desks, and in-person taxpayer assistance offices may close. Simpler, electronically filed returns may still get processed, but will be slower due to short staffing. 

Will grantees and nonprofits be impacted? 

The impact on recipients of federal grants will vary depending on the related agency. You should contact the agency to find out how a government shutdown might affect grant dollars. 


My offices in Washington D.C. and Delray Beach will remain open during a shutdown. If you’re running into trouble with a federal agency, please reach out. We’ll do everything we can to help.

Delray Beach Office: (561) 998-9045

Washington D.C. Office: (202) 225-9890

We’ll keep this page updated as information becomes available.