American civilians and lawmakers are bracing, yet again, for a government shutdown.
Congress has until Sept. 30 to come to an agreement on funding the federal government for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1, but lawmakers are at an impasse over allocation of government spending. The last shutdown stretched 34 full days from December 2018 through January 2019.
Millions of people would be immediately affected by a government shutdown. Federal workers at agencies including Defense, Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security, may be furloughed while essential employees will continue to work but have their paychecks suspended.
If a shutdown happens, some government operations will be completely suspended while others may just be reduced. If you work outside of the federal government, here’s how it may affect you.
Will a government shutdown affect student loan payments?
In short, no. Your federal student loan payment will still be due in October as the pandemic payment pause officially comes to an end. A government shutdown would not change that.
The White House has warned that a shutdown could cause delays in some student loan processes, especially if it goes on longer than a couple of weeks. But for now, borrowers should still be ready to make a payment in October.
Will a government shutdown affect Social Security payments?
Social Security checks will still go out as scheduled in the event of a government shutdown. The agency is considered a mandatory program, not funded by the bill Congress needs to pass to keep the government up and running.
Some services, including benefit verifications and Medicare card replacement, would be paused for the duration of a shutdown, but the agency will continue processing applications for benefits and requests for appeals, among other critical functions.
Will national parks be open during a government shutdown?
You may have to put your vacation plans on hold if the government shuts down as you’re gearing up to visit a national park. The parks may remain open, but without certain services, including restrooms and visitor centers.
However, the National Parks Conservation Association strongly advises against visiting parks during a shutdown for your own safety and the protection of the park resources.
Will a government shutdown affect air travel?
Workers staffed by the Transportation Security and Federal Aviation Administrations will stop receiving their paychecks during a government shutdown. Since they are essential workers, they will be expected to continue working, though they won’t get paid until the shutdown ends.
Travel experts warn a prolonged shutdown could mean delays for travelers if absences among TSA and FAA agents tick up in response to a lack of pay, as happened during the 2018-19 shutdown.
DON’T MISS: Want to be smarter and more successful with your money, work & life? Sign up for our new newsletter!
Want to earn more and land your dream job? Join the free CNBC Make It: Your Money virtual event on Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. ET to learn how to level up your interview and negotiating skills, build your ideal career, boost your income and grow your wealth. Register for free today.
