By Martin Shwenk Leade

Copyright indiatimes

ReutersThe hardest hit in a government shutdown would be federal workers and active-duty military members

Is the federal government on the verge of shutdown? The federal government will shut down at midnight unless Congress reaches a deal on funding. Republicans need at least seven Democrats in the Senate to join them to pass a spending package under the chamber’s rules.The US government will shutdown if Congress fails to reach a deal to approve new fundings by Wednesday, October 1, 2025. A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass funding for some or all agencies, which can’t spend money that hasn’t been approved by lawmakers. There have been 14 shutdowns since 1980, with the most recent coming in 2018. That shutdown lasted 34 days.ALSO READ: US to see largest mass resignation in history? As government shutdown looms, Trump’s plans exposedWhat happens during a government shutdown?In case, the shutdown happens, then the federal government must stop all non-essential functions until funding is approved by Congress and signed into law. Exceptions remain for programs that are funded by other means like fees or other legislation. Each agency determines what work is essential and what is not. Members of Congress make that determination for their own staff, as well.Anything deemed nonessential would be put on hold, so Americans could experience delays with certain services and hundreds of thousands of federal workers will go without pay.Live EventsAre you planning to fly soon?Air traffic controllers and the majority of TSA employees are classified as “essential workers,” meaning they must continue working during a government shutdown—even if their paychecks are delayed. If a shutdown dragged on, travelers could see more “sick-outs” of key personnel. If you planning for an international trip in the new year, you may need to build in even more time for passport renewals. US passport agencies will remain open, but it could take longer to process applications with some employees furloughed.Will your mail work?The answer is Yes. The US Postal Service will keep the mail moving as usual in the event of a shutdown. USPS is primarily self-funded and doesn’t depend on the appropriations process to continue running as usual.ALSO READ: Stimulus payment in October: US citizens set to receive the deposit soon? Check amount, eligibility and key detailsWhat about the benefit and safety net programs?Social Security, VA and other benefits will continue, but you can expect delay in services, such as processing applications. If the US government shutdown happens, mothers and young children who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food program would be the most-hit.The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) will last longer but could also run out if a shutdown dragged on.Will you get your paychecks?The hardest hit in a government shutdown would be federal workers and active-duty military members, who would see their paychecks halted. The White House has also warned of potential mass layoffs—known as a reduction in force (RIF)—along with furlough notices if the shutdown goes forward.Because the shutdown would begin near the end of a pay period, the first full paycheck federal employees would miss is scheduled for October 24, while service members would go without pay starting October 15. Under the Constitution, only the president and members of Congress are guaranteed to keep receiving pay during a shutdown, though lawmakers can ask to have their salaries deferred.Once the shutdown ends, both federal workers and military personnel will receive back pay.ALSO READ: US government shutdown: Millions of federal employees brace for mass layoffs. It would cost the economy…What about FEMA?Most employees at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are exempt from furloughs and will continue responding to emergencies and disasters.However, FEMA’s primary funding source—the Disaster Relief Fund—is nearly depleted and requires congressional approval for more resources.If a shutdown occurs, FEMA will shift to “immediate needs funding,” which could delay reimbursements to states and local governments. The agency also manages the National Flood Insurance Program, which will expire after Sept. 30 without congressional action.ALSO READ: Government shutdown will affect your tax payment? Know what it means for youAdd as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now!
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