Government Shutdown: What It Means for Service Members, Veterans, and Families

The federal budget deadline passed without an agreement, and the government has officially shut down. While lawmakers continue to debate funding, this lapse is already creating uncertainty for Service Members, Retirees, Veterans, and their families.

At NCOA, we are closely monitoring the situation and pressing lawmakers to protect military pay and benefits. Here’s a look at what this shutdown means for our community.

Currently Serving and Families
Active duty personnel will still report for duty, but unless Congress acts, paychecks will stop after October 1. That means October 15 paychecks are at risk until funding is restored.

Routine and elective medical procedures at military facilities could be delayed or canceled, though TRICARE and TRICARE For Life coverage in the private sector will remain available. Pharmacies, commissaries, exchanges, gyms, and child care centers considered essential to readiness will generally stay open, but some facilities may adjust hours or reduce services if civilian staff are furloughed.

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves and temporary duty travel may be delayed unless they are mission-essential. National Guard and Reserve drill weekends could also be canceled, though mobilized members will continue to report.

Military schools will remain open, but extracurricular activities may be canceled if they rely on federal funding. Training led by civilian instructors could be delayed, while contractor-led training may continue if it was funded before the shutdown.

Retirees and Survivors
Retiree pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments will continue during the shutdown. TRICARE and TRICARE For Life coverage will not be interrupted, and commissaries and exchanges will remain open.

Retirees receiving care at military treatment facilities could see cancellations or delays for non-urgent appointments and elective procedures. Pharmacies will remain open, but with the possibility of reduced hours.

Veterans and the VA
VA hospitals and clinics will remain open, and health care services will continue. VA disability, housing, and education benefits will also keep being paid.

Regional VA offices will close, and programs such as transition assistance, career counseling, and pre-need burial applications will be suspended. Burials will continue at VA cemeteries, but headstone placement and grounds maintenance could face delays.

The VA crisis line (988, press 1) and the main MyVA411 call center will remain operational, along with the VA benefits hotline (1-800-827-1000).

Financial Support During the Shutdown
​Several financial institutions serving the military community, including USAA, are expected to offer zero-interest loans and other relief programs.

Military aid societies are also stepping in. Army Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance all provide interest-free loans and grants to help during times of financial strain. The American Red Cross Hero Care app can connect families directly with these resources.

Looking Ahead
NCOA will continue to advocate on Capitol Hill for funding that protects Service Members and Veterans from financial hardship. This shutdown is a reminder of why we need a strong voice representing enlisted personnel and their families.

If you are impacted, reach out to your financial institution or a relief agency for help. And please stay connected with NCOA for updates as the situation develops.

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