Government Shut Down

As of October 1st, 2025, the federal government has shut down. Senator Blumenthal voted to keep the government open and lower health care costs for the people of Connecticut, but the Republican-controlled Congress rejected that bill. Senator Blumenthal is working with his colleagues to reopen the government. 

At the direction of President Trump, many federal agencies will furlough or even fire federal workers, which will slow response times or potentially suspend their services altogether. However, Senator Blumenthal's office will remain open to serve you. If you need help with a federal agency, please click here to submit your request. Please be aware that there could be significant delays in resolving issues, and some cases may not receive a response until after the federal government reopens.  Some constituent services, such as tour and flag requests, will also be suspended. 

This page will be updated to provide information on what services will and will not be available during the government shutdown. 

I'm a federal employee. How will I be impacted?

President Trump has said that vast numbers of federal workers may be laid off during this shutdown. Otherwise, federal workers will either be furloughed or continue to work without pay depending on the decision of their employing agency. Please check with your agency to determine your work status and visit the U.S. Office of Personnel Management website for updates. 

Furloughed employees may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. Visit the Connecticut Department of Labor to learn more. 

What will happen to my Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?

If you receive Social Security or SSI, you will continue to receive your benefits during the shutdown. However, some the services offered by the Social Security Administration may be impacted.

What will happen to my Medicare or Medicaid benefits?

Medicare and Medicaid benefits will continue to be distributed during the shutdown. 

What will happen to my Veterans benefits?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will continue to process and deliver benefits to veterans, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits. VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will be open as usual and providing all services. Check the VA website for updates.

Is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) open?

The IRS will remain fully operational for five (5) business days following this shutdown. If you filed for a six-month extension for your tax returns in April, you are still required to file by October 15, 2025. Check the IRS website for updates.

How is the Small Business Administration (SBA) impacted during a shutdown?

The SBA will not approve new 7(a), 504 or microloan loans or service existing 7(a), 504 or microloan loans. If eligible, you can still apply for loans through SBA's Disaster Loan Program. The SBA will also pause all support for the 8(a) Business Development program, the secondary market loan program, and the Small Business Investment Company program. Check the SBA's website for updates.

Will I still receive mail through the U.S. Postal Service?

Yes, mail delivery through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will continue throughout the shutdown.

What happens to my food assistance benefits?

The Connecticut Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will be available. You may continue to use your WIC benefits, attend WIC appointments, and do not need to take any action. Learn more here.

SNAP members will still receive October benefits on their EBT card on the normal schedule. Learn more here.

Will I be able to get a new passport or renew my passport during the shutdown?

Consular operations domestically and abroad will remain operational. This includes passports, visas, and assisting U.S. citizens abroad.

What does this mean for disaster relief efforts?

In the short term, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) core disaster relief functions are not likely to be impacted. However, no new policies can be written under the National Flood Insurance Program. Check FEMA's website for updates. 

I have a federal student loan. How will I be impacted?

The Department of Education will continue to disburse student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student loans, and student loan borrowers will still be required to make payments on their outstanding student debt. The Department of Education will also make Title I and IDEA grant funding available as usual. Check the Department of Education's website for updates.

I'm visiting Washington, D.C. Will I still be able to take tours?

Unfortunately, no. All tours of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and FBI Building will be canceled.