As the federal government shutdown enters its fourth week, Congress remains at odds over a short-term spending bill. With no immediate resolution, credit unions should be aware of several key dates that could further impact federal workers and federal assistance programs:

• October 31 and November 5 – Congressional staffer paychecks: Senate staff are paid twice monthly, on the 5th and 20th, and missed their first full paycheck on October 20th. House staff are paid once per month, at the end of the month and will miss their October 31st paycheck if no resolution is reached. If that is the case, their next paycheck will not arrive until after Thanksgiving. 
• Nov 1 – SNAP Benefits Funding Lapse: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that federal food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will cease on November 1
• Nov 1 – Head Start Program Funding Lapse: Federal funding for the Head Start early childhood program is scheduled to lapse on November 1, which would impact 60,000 children nationwide

Leaders in the region are continuing to provide assistance to impacted workers. Here’s a quick rundown of the latest announcements and where members can find resources to help them through the shutdown.

In Virginia, Governor Glen Youngkin declared a state of emergency last week, allowing the use of emergency funds to provide relief for 850,000 Virginians who receive federal food assistance through the SNAP program. Furloughed workers can apply for unemployment benefits. Visit the state’s website for more information.

In Maryland, Comptroller Brooke Lierman has announced that the state will offer tax payment plan deferments for federal employees experiencing financial hardship. To sign up for relief, federal workers must send an email to: GovShutdownRelief@marylandtaxes.gov and include the following information: full name, address, last four digits of their social security number, and case number or payment plan identification number. The deferment program is in place through the shutdown, plus an additional 60 days after the federal government resumes business. Additional information on available resources and support can be found on the state’s website.

In Delaware, the state’s Resource Page directs people to Delaware agencies and nonprofits offering assistance. Delaware State University recently announced that it will temporarily defer remaining tuition payments for students whose parents are federal employees affected by the ongoing government shutdown.

In DC, furloughed federal workers can apply for unemployment by visiting the Department of Employment Services website.