Last Updated: October 2, 2025
As the government shutdown continues, many of our military and federal clients may soon be directly affected — through delayed pay, furloughs, or benefit interruptions.
Whether you’re serving on active duty, working in a civilian federal role, or supporting government operations as a contractor, this period can create significant financial strain.
We want you to know: you are not alone. We’re here to help you navigate this time with personalized support, up-to-date resources, and practical financial strategies to ease the burden.
Who Is Affected?
This shutdown impacts a wide range of individuals, including:
- Military service members
- Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees
- Federal agency employees
- Government and DoD contractors
Immediate Steps to Take
If your pay or benefits are disrupted, here are a few things you can do now:
- Assess your monthly expenses. Focus on essentials: housing, food, insurance, transportation, and medication.
- Contact creditors, landlords, and service providers. Many offer hardship programs during shutdowns.
- Pause non-essential spending. Postpone large purchases or unnecessary expenses. Stop unnecessary subscriptions.
- Track your cash flow. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Adjust due dates if necessary.
- ⚠️ We encourage you to avoid high-risk options like “buy now, pay later” services, payday lenders, or other predatory loans. While they may seem helpful in the moment, they often create long-term financial strain.
Instead, explore trusted financial support options from credit unions, relief organizations, and assistance programs listed below.
How We Can Help
We’re committed to supporting you — and your loved ones — through this difficult time. Our services include:
- Free 30-minute financial consultations for those impacted
- Flexible payment plans or extensions (where applicable) for current clients
- Help accessing emergency resources and creating short-term financial plans
📞 Call us: 571-390-5727
📧 Contact Us: www.blackdogwealth.com
Emergency Financial Resources
Military Relief Organizations
- Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS)
- Army Emergency Relief (AER)
- Air Force Aid Society (AFAS)
- Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA)
Federal Employee Assistance
Credit Unions & Banks Offering Shutdown Relief
Many financial institutions are offering 0% interest loans, deferred payments, and emergency support during the shutdown. Click below to see specific benefits:
- USAA
- Navy Federal Credit Union
- PenFed Credit Union
- FrontWave Credit Union
- Andrews Federal Credit Union
- Armed Forces Bank
- Marine Federal Credit Union
Federal Programs & Payments Affected by the Shutdown
| Program | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | ✅ Active (Thru Oct) | Funded through October only; delays or reductions possible afterward. |
| WIC (Women, Infants & Children) | ❌ Not Guaranteed | Dependent on state reserves; availability may vary or run out quickly. |
| Social Security & SSI | ✅ Active | Benefits continue as usual. |
| Medicare & Medicaid | ✅ Active | Payments continue without interruption. |
| VA Benefits (Disability, Education, etc.) | ✅ Active | Disability comp, pensions, and education benefits remain unaffected. |
| Pell Grants | ⚠️ Limited | Available until carryover and mandatory funds run out. New disbursements may be delayed if the shutdown continues. |
| Federal Direct Student Loans | ⚠️ Limited | Available until carryover and mandatory funds run out. New disbursements may be delayed if the shutdown continues. |
| Military Retirement Pay | ✅ Active | Payments will continue as scheduled. |
| Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) | ✅ Active | No disruption expected. |
| Federal Employees (Furloughed & Essential) | ❌ Paused Pay | Not paid during shutdown; back pay guaranteed once resolved. |
| Military Service Members | ❌ Paused Pay | Expected to serve without pay; back pay issued after shutdown ends. |
| ➕ Federal & DoD Contractors (not a federal benefit) | ⚠️ Varies by Employer | May face furloughs or delayed pay depending on contract/employer. Back pay not guaranteed. |
Additional Federal Resources
- OPM Furlough Guidance
- Notice to Federal Employees About Unemployment Insurance
- Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE)
- VA Shutdown Field Guide (PDF)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will I receive back pay after the shutdown ends?
✅ Yes — for federal employees and active-duty military under the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 (GEFTA).
❌ Not guaranteed for contractors.
Can I apply for unemployment if I’m furloughed?
Yes. Most furloughed federal employees can apply, depending on your state’s rules. See the resources above for more information.
Can I pause or defer loan or credit card payments?
Yes. Many lenders and credit unions have special relief programs — reach out to them directly to learn more.
We’re in This Together
Shutdowns are disruptive — emotionally and financially — but you’re not alone. We’re here to support you with expert advice, flexible solutions, and a plan tailored to your needs.
📞 Call us: 571-390-5727
📧 Contact Us: www.blackdogwealth.com
Stay Informed — Bookmark This Page
We’ll continue updating this page as the situation evolves. Bookmark it now and check back often for the latest tools, benefits, and updates during the shutdown.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for educational, informational, and illustrative purposes only. It does not constitute tax advice, investment advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. The content is general in nature and may not apply to your individual circumstances. Please consult a qualified tax professional, financial planner, and/or legal advisor for guidance specific to your situation.