What does the government shutdown mean for me?
There are some services that will continue running because they are considered essential. However other services will slow down, or some may completely come to a stop. To make things clearer, here’s a breakdown of how the shutdown is affecting major federal agencies, written in plain English.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Fortunately for Social Security recipients, benefit checks will still be paid as normal. However, as a result of less staff in field offices, customer service may be delayed.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The IRS will continue collecting taxes and processing online payments. Any other processes such as audits or taxpayer helplines will be put on hold. If you’re waiting on a refund, it could take longer than usual to arrive.
Department of Education
Any student loan payment or federal grants will still continue as normal, however other services such as technical assistance and student support may be slowed down. That means students and schools may see delays in getting answers to financial aid questions.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The Corps is well known for the management of dams, waterways and flood control projects. Should there be a public safety emergency, they will still respond. However, any new construction projects or maintenance will be put on hold until the shutdown is over.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Safety and security are priority, therefore Border patrol agents, TSA officers, and immigration enforcement staff continue working. The sad reality is that many of these agents are working without pay until funding is restored, this could eventually impact staffing levels.
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Essential health programs like Medicare and Medicaid keep running. Hospitals and emergency care remain open.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
VA hospitals will remain open, and benefits will continue to be paid, however certain administrative services will slow down.
Department of Labor
All unemployment related benefits will still continue. However other services such as workplace safety inspections will slow down as a result of the shutdown.
Department of Justice (DOJ)
Because they are deemed necessary, the FBI, federal prisons, and counterterrorism activities continue as usual. However, non-urgent administrative hearings and civil court cases can be delayed until after the shutdown is over.
Department of Defense
National security will not be jeopardised, and American troops will continue to serve. Nonetheless, a large number of civilian workers who assist the military are on furlough. If the shutdown persists, service personnel would potentially see delayed pay checks, which would be financially burdensome for military families.
Department of the Treasury
Economic reports and other financial regulatory activities may be delayed but the Treasury department will continue paying interest in government debt during the shutdown.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA will continue to handle environmental emergencies, but most inspections, research projects, and clean-up efforts are paused. Communities waiting for federal environmental help may need to wait longer.
Department of Commerce
The Census Bureau and Bureau of Economic Analysis may delay key economic data releases. Businesses that rely on these numbers for planning could be left in the dark. The National Weather Service, however, will keep running because weather forecasts protect lives and property.
NASA
The International Space Station will continue to operate but new projects, research and development and educational programs will be delayed.
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
While crucial global obligations are fulfilled with a significantly lower workforce, trade enforcement and discussions slow considerably.
Small Business Administration (SBA)
Small business owners will unfortunately have to wait longer for federal loans to be approved.
U.S. State Department
The passport and visa application services will continue as long as there is funds from the application fees, however if the shutdown continues for weeks, then these services may also slow down.
The Bottom Line
It is important to note that essential services such as Social Security payments, Medicare, military operations and national security are still running. However, there are other government services which have slowed down or halted, and this can cause frustration for many.
Citizens must be sure to follow updates regarding the shutdown and plan ahead.