Frequently Asked Questions- Government Shutdown

Will Soldiers, intelligence workers, and security personnel still work?

A: Yes, positions that are deemed essential to the operation and safety of our nation will still be filled.

Will Federal Courts stay open?

A: Yes, Federal Courts will operate off of reserve funds they have on hand.

Will Federal locations – such as the Smithsonian Museums or National Zoo – remain open?

A: No, these sites will close to the public, however the animals will still be cared for, and the contents of the museums will still be monitored.

Will the IRS still send out tax-refund checks?

A: No, the IRS will close in the case of a Government Shutdown. This would mean that all refund checks, as well as tax audits and other IRS functions would be postponed until after the government re-opens.

Will Social Security checks and Medicare payments still be received?

A: Yes. Social Security checks will still be sent out to those who qualify for the benefits, and Medicare payments will still be made to medical providers.

Will the Post Office close?

A: No. The United States Postal Service is owned, but not operated by the government. Therefore, the Postal Service will still deliver mail on a regular schedule.

What State programs will be affected by a government shutdown?

A: All federal grants to states for education or research will be discontinued until the government re-opens. However, those institutions or individuals who receive the grants will have the funds delivered after the shutdown ends.

If you have any additional questions, please contact my Washington, DC office at 202-225-6276 or my Jackson office at 517-780-9075