Does a Government Shutdown Affect You?

The U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, on Sept. 30, 2023. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

As traditional as Thanksgiving, the annual government shutdown debate is proceeding. And although Congress has kicked the can down the road with a stopgap measure, the U.S. government is still in jeopardy of shutting down within the next 45 days.

If a shutdown occurs, what are the exact ramifications? Some government services will be disrupted. But what essential services will keep going? How does a shutdown affect you?

Parties Divided on Effect of Shutdown

The saying “it all depends on whose ox is getting gored” is apropos of discussing a government shutdown. For most Americans, the world will keep on spinning. But some will be hampered or even hurt by a government shutdown.