Government Shutdown Resources for Federal Employees
If you’re a federal worker, military member, or contractor caught in the middle of the government shutdown, things are getting stressful. We get it. That's why we've compiled this guide that will help you negotiate the expenses that can't wait until your paycheck resumes. But the good thing here - the government shutdown is all over the news so most companies are aware and willing to help - you just need to ask.
Phone bills (like Verizon)
Verizon is offering flexible payment arrangements (think deferred payments, no late fees) to federal employees, military members, and first responders affected by the shutdown. They’ve said they’ll keep this going for as long as the shutdown lasts.
<div class="frich-tip">Call 1-800-VERIZON and provide proof of federal/military employment.</div>
If you're not a Verizon client, call your phone company and ask if they offer something similar. Mention that you read about what Verizon offers.
Credit card bills
Even though you will receive backpay, you shouldn't be on the hook for paying late fees or interest on your credit card bill. Your bank doesn’t want to lose you - and many will help if you just ask. Call your back and follow this script:
“Hi, I’m a federal employee currently impacted by the government shutdown. I’m not receiving pay, and I’d like to request a temporary pause on interest or late fees during this time. Do you offer any hardship programs I can apply for?”
<div class="frich-tip">Ask to speak to the hardship or customer care team - they often have more flexibility.</div>
Credit unions
If you bank with a federal credit union (like Navy Federal, PenFed, or your agency’s union), you may be eligible for a 0% or low-interest emergency loan. These are often set up specifically for shutdown situations.
<div class="frich-tip">Search: [your credit union] + government shutdown loan.</div>
Then call them and say:
“Do you offer emergency loan or payment relief programs for federal employees impacted by the shutdown?”
Mortgage
Yes, mortgage can be negotiated as well - especially with big lenders like Wells Fargo, Rocket Mortgage, and Bank of America. Call your lender and say:
“I’m temporarily impacted by the federal government shutdown and need help deferring my mortgage payments. What options are available to avoid late fees or credit harm?”
<div class="frich-tip">This doesn’t hurt your credit if arranged before you miss a payment.</div>
Utilities
Power, water, internet, and gas companies often offer hardship programs; including deferred payments or no shut-off guarantees during a government shutdown.
<div class="frich-tip">Search “[Your utility provider] hardship program” or check your online account dashboard.</div>
Then call them and confirm.
Student loan payments
If you’re holding federal student loans, you may qualify for temporary forbearance. Call your loan servicer and say:
“I'm a federal employee currently without pay due to the government shutdown. Can I apply for a forbearance or payment pause until funding resumes?”
<div class="frich-tip">Make sure to call them before you miss your payment to avoid late fees or hurting your credit score!</div>
Public transit
In cities like DC, public transportation systems often offer free or discounted rides for furloughed federal employees.
<div class="frich-tip">Search: “Free public transport in [your city] during government shutdown”</div>
Car payments
Auto lenders like Toyota Financial, GM, and Honda often offer payment relief programs or fee waivers during federal disruptions. Call your lender and ask:
“I’m currently furloughed due to the shutdown. Can I defer my car payment or pause fees temporarily?”
They may not advertise it, but many will help you out if you ask.
Free food
<div class="frich-tip">Search: “free meals in [your city] during government shutdown.”</div>
Here are some that we found after a quick search:
- If you're in DC, check out World Central Kitchen : they offer free meal pop-ups for federal workers
- If you're a TSA or Air Traffic Control employee: TGI Fridays offers one free meal a day in all their locations (including airports)
- Compass Coffee: offers free parties when you show your federal ID at the register
- Ruby Slipper (Nationwide): offers a free entree to all federal employees across all their locations
- If you're in New Jersey, check out Jon Bon Jovi’s Soul Kitchen: they offer free 3-course meals to all furloughed government employees
- Bonus: Download Too Good To Go to get discounted meals from restaurants year-round.
We hope this helps! If you find any other resources, email us at hello@getfrich.comso we can spread the word! In the meantime, keep these in mind:
- Always be honest and proactive - don’t wait until you miss a payment
- Keep records of all agreements
- Follow up in writing if possible
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