How the Federal Government Shutdown Affects You and Your Social Security Benefits

On October 1, 2025, the federal government commenced a shutdown due to Congress not reaching a funding agreement. Despite this, individuals receiving Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will still receive their payments on schedule.
Impact of the Federal Government Shutdown
As the federal government shuts down, various services are affected. However, Social Security payments remain unaffected, offering continuity for beneficiaries.
Social Security Services During Shutdown
- All current beneficiaries will receive payments on time.
- Local Social Security offices will remain operational but with limited services.
To facilitate access to Social Security services, individuals are encouraged to create a “my Social Security” account online at www.ssa.gov/myaccount/. This platform allows for convenient management of benefits and essential services.
Available Services
Despite reduced operations, Social Security offices will still provide assistance in several areas:
- Applications for benefits
- Requesting appeals
- Updating personal information, such as address and direct deposit
- Reporting deaths
- Verifying or amending citizenship status
- Obtaining or replacing Social Security cards
- Fulfilling critical payment requests
Hearings offices will also remain open for proceedings with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
Services on Hold
Some services are temporarily suspended, including:
- Providing benefit proof letters
- Updating or correcting earnings records
These will resume when the federal government resumes normal operations.
Staying Informed
Updates on the government shutdown will be shared via Social Security’s social media platforms, including Facebook and LinkedIn. For comprehensive information, visit www.ssa.gov/agency/shutdown.