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As The Shutdown Carries On, These Resources Become More Valuable To Furloughed Feds
The Government has been shut down for 27 days now, and it remains unclear exactly how much longer it will remain so. With over 800,000 federal employees affected by this lapse in funding, many are feeling the strain of this uncertainty.
This is a worrisome time for hundreds of thousands, but remember – you are not wholly without resources. Whether you need food or financial assistance, transportation or internet access, there is likely an option for you. Below are just some of the many resources available to help you get through the shutdown.
General Resources and Assistance
The My Fed Benefits Assistance Map lets you search for available assistance by state. Businesses can also submit offers here. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Be sure to also check with your state, county, or city directly.
Shutdown Resources for Feds from the Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA).
USA Today Businesses offer furlough freebies, shutdown specials and assistance to federal workers
The OPM furlough guidance page
Financial Services
Many financial institutions are offering relief in various ways. Check with yours, or others in your area, to find out how they can work with you.
To all Starr Wright USA customers affected by the Government Shutdown: We are here for you. Starr Wright has been protecting Federal Careers for over 50 years, and we will continue to protect you in these uncertain times. If your payment was due during the shutdown, there will be no interruption in your Professional Liability policy while the Government Shutdown is in effect.
PenFed has a Furlough Program providing a furlough loan, direct deposit assistance, and more.
USAA has a loan program and additional assistance for members.
Navy Federal Credit Union is offering 0% APR loans during the shutdown, and so is Launch Federal Credit Union.
Wells Fargo is offering fee reversals and waivers to impacted federal employees.
Bank of America will provide personalized financial assistance to their federal customers.
Utilities and Cell Phone Services
T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T all say they will work with furloughed feds who contact them.
Water, electricity, and other utility companies across the country are offering bill assistance and payment plans to those in need. You can learn more by calling the Customer Service or Billing department at your local utility company.
Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment Help and other similarly useful resources can be found at USA.gov.
OPM Fact Sheet on pay and benefits during the funding lapse
OPM Shut-Down of Federal Operations – What Does it Mean To Me?
D.C. Metro Area and Nearby
The D.C. Guide to the 2018-19 Government Shutdown is being updated regularly with information on where to get assistance with food, bills, entertainment, and more – like where you can volunteer or donate, if you are in a position to do so.
World Central Kitchen began providing free meals to federal employees in need – and their families! - on January 16.
Fairfax County, Virginia is offering multiple services to affected residents:
The Fairfax County Human Services Guide shows which nonprofits can be solicited for aid.
The Fairfax country Free local events Calendar provides a list of events – some beneficial, some just fun.
Free bus rides, and more https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news2/resources-for-county-residents-impacted-by-federal-shutdown/
Employer Guidebooks
Many agencies have guides or handbooks with information specifically for their employees, as well. Some, but not all, are below; if you don’t see your agency here, check their website.
U.S. Department of State Furloughed Employees Handbook
ODNI Guidance & Resources – Lapse in Government Funding
FBI Commonly Asked Questions for Government Shutdown
U.S. Department of Transportation Furlough FAQ
For federal contractors, The Professional Services Council website has a page with their guidance for contractors and selected agencies.
Other Resources
Official Agency Contingency Plans in case of a lapse in appropriations are viewable on the White House Website.
The current operating status of the government shutdown can be viewed here.
Starr Wright USA is an insurance company specializing in insurance solutions for federal employees and federal contractors. For more information, visit WrightUSA.com.