Many Important Programs Continue Despite Government Shutdown

The government has officially, albeit partially, shut down. With over 800,000 furloughed across many government agencies, the effects have already been felt across certain sectors. Meanwhile, more agencies and individuals will be affected the longer the circus continues in Washington. Still there are important agencies that will remain open that many may be concerned about.

The short answer to just how it will affect someone is that it all depends. There are some programs that will remain functioning or partially functioning. Meanwhile, there are some government agencies and services that have closed down altogether.

There is good news for those who receive both Social Security or supplemental income. “Social Security and Supplemental Security Income [SSI] payments to beneficiaries will continue with no change in payment dates,” says a shutdown-related bulletin on the Social Security website.

Medicare programs for seniors continue to operate as well, because of its link to Social Security. Low-income families should see little change as well as they are not currently dependent on annual spending caps. 

Jobless benefits will also continue as of now, as will both Food Stamps and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs. but the same cannot be said for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. It has funding that can come from the states that will carry over, according to Rep. Riggel, and so depending on the state, welfare should continue as of now.

Finally, pensions and benefits for military personnel will continue. There are some noted slowdowns or shutdowns of particular services however, which could affect certain aspects of supplemental and non-monetary care. People are trying to keep up good spirits about the government shutdown and have started focusing once again on other entertainment such as this weekend’s NFL picks. 

Despite many of these important programs remaining open and flowing, it has been noted that the longer the shutdown persists, the worse it is for all. President Obama warned Tuesday warned Tuesday that tthe shutdown doesn’t come without some cost. “The longer this shutdown continues, the worse the effects will be,” he said.