Government Shutdown FAQ
PLEASE NOTE: This page is a living document; it is frequently updated so please check in for additional information. Due to the evolving nature of a government shutdown, it is difficult to provide real time information about the current operations of various agencies.
Please contact my Newton, MA office at (617) 332-3333 or my Washington, D.C. office (202) 225-5931 for assistance, or reach out directly to the federal agency you need assistance from to get the most up-to-date information on federal operations.
Below, you’ll find information on what a government shutdown means, how it affects Bay Staters, and other frequently asked questions (FAQs).
What is a government shutdown?
Every year, Congress must pass 12 appropriations bills to fund many of the federal government agencies and programs for the upcoming fiscal year. For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, congressional Republicans have failed to enact any of these bills.
Historically, the longest shutdown on record is the 2018-2019 shutdown during the first Trump administration, which lasted 35 days. My Massachusetts and Washington, DC offices will remain open for those seeking assistance or answers.
Government Services
I have an issue with a federal agency, can I still call them for help? Can you help me instead?
Many federal agencies will be forced to furlough staff, which will slow response times and, in some cases, suspend their services all together.
I work in one of these facilities/agencies. Does this mean I won’t be working? Will I be paid?
Federal employees who work for agencies or work on programs that are not funded by the annual appropriations process are exempt from a shutdown. These include agencies like the U.S. Postal Service and programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Federal employees whose agency or programs are funded by annual appropriations that have not yet been provided for FY 2026 will be designated by their agency as "essential" or "non-essential." Only essential employees—generally those who do work related to emergency response, safety of human life, and the protection of property—will be allowed to report for work once available funding has been exhausted.
Does USPS still deliver mail?
All services under the U.S. Postal Service should still continue during a government shutdown.
Will I continue to receive my Social Security and SSI checks?
Recipients should continue to receive their Social Security and SSI checks. The Social Security Administration (SSA) should provide limited services. Customer service wait times may dramatically increase.
Will Medicare and Medicaid benefits be affected?
Current Medicare, Medicaid, and disability insurance beneficiaries should continue to receive their benefits.
What happens to veterans' services?
In the case of a government shutdown, there should be no expected impact on the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). All Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities and clinics will remain operational.
What is the impact on U.S. military personnel and federal law enforcement?
All active-duty and National Guard and Reservists on active-duty orders are excepted and therefore are required to work without pay. Federal law enforcement will also be required to work without pay for the duration of a shutdown.
Travel
How will this affect airport wait times?
Airports across the nation will remain open, but a shutdown will likely result in increased airport wait times.
Will my passport be processed?
The U.S. Passport Agency is fee-funded and therefore, remains open during a shutdown.
I'm traveling to Washington, D.C. - will my tours still take place?
No. The Capitol will be closed to the public, with no staff or guide-led tours permitted. The White House also separately announced that there will be no public tours for the month of October due to ongoing construction. You can find more information about tours on our page here.