October 2025 Federal Government Shutdown Resources

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.

Despite the shutdown, my office is still working to help with issues you may be experiencing with federal agencies. While many agencies may have slower response times and minimal staffing, we can still submit requests and advocate on your behalf. You can submit casework requests on our website here.

I am also committed to keeping you informed about how the shutdown may or may not affect you. 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. 

Impacts vary by agency but you can read the the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) frequently asked question fact sheet for general information about how agencies must operate during this lapse in funding. Please visit their website for the latest updates. 

Why is the federal government shutdown?

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 measure was a straightforward extension of current funding levels with no extraneous policy changes.

Unfortunately this proposal did not pass the Senate, as Senate Democrats are blocking the measure and have shutdown the federal government. This means that, with limited exceptions, many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Some programs deemed essential to the protection of life and property are allowed by law to continue.

What federal services will continue during the lapse in funding?

While the programs and services listed below will continue, each federal agency responsible for administering them may have reduced staffing levels which will impact their operations and response times. You can read more about how agencies are required to budget during appropriations lapses here. For agency-specific details please visit the department’s .gov site (which can be found here) where you will find their shutdown resource pages.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 (through October 11 ONLY)
• Visa and passport services (although longer wait times are possible)