The United States government has entered a partial shutdown after congressional negotiations failed to reach a funding agreement before the midnight deadline. This shutdown halts or disrupts a wide range of federal operations, affecting millions of Americans who rely on government services daily. While some agencies and services will continue functioning due to mandatory funding or emergency provisions, many others will suspend non-essential activities. This article provides a comprehensive, agency-by-agency breakdown of which government functions remain operational and which have halted, including critical services like Social Security, the IRS, defense operations, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Understanding the scope of these closures helps clarify the immediate impacts on the public and federal employees alike.

Overview of the Shutdown’s Impact

The shutdown stems from the failure of Congress to pass a new appropriations bill or continuing resolution. As a result, thousands of federal employees face furloughs, while essential personnel continue working without pay temporarily. Agencies funded through mandatory spending, such as Social Security and Medicare, generally maintain operations, but discretionary programs face significant disruptions. The shutdown’s ripple effects are most evident in areas related to national security, public health, and economic stability, prompting widespread concern among policymakers and citizens.

Essential Services and Federal Agencies: Who’s Working, Who’s Not

Social Security Administration

• Operational Status: Ongoing
• Details: Social Security offices remain open for critical services, including benefit inquiries and processing urgent cases. Most field offices are open but with limited staff, and online services continue without interruption.
• Impact on the Public: Beneficiaries can access benefits, but wait times may increase, and some in-person services could be delayed due to staffing shortages.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

• Operational Status: Limited
• Details: Most IRS functions related to processing tax returns and refunds are halted, with only emergency operations related to taxpayer safety and critical compliance activities continuing temporarily.
• Impact on the Public: Tax processing is delayed, and assistance hotlines are unavailable, complicating efforts for individuals and businesses to meet tax deadlines.

Defense and National Security

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

• Operational Status: Fully operational
• Details: TSA agents remain on duty at airports nationwide, ensuring passenger screening continues without interruption.
• Impact on Travelers: Flights depart on schedule, but some administrative functions, such as background checks for new hires, are affected.

Other Notable Agencies

• Department of Health and Human Services: Most programs suspended, but emergency services related to public health continue, including food safety inspections and pandemic response.
• Department of Homeland Security: Critical border security and immigration enforcement operations continue; however, administrative offices face furloughs.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Most non-essential activities are halted, including routine inspections and grant processing.

Summary Table of Agency Operations During Shutdown

Impacts and Next Steps

The shutdown’s immediate effects ripple across sectors, causing delays in government services, uncertainty among federal workers, and potential economic repercussions. Congress will need to reach an agreement to reopen full operations and fund essential programs. Meanwhile, agencies continue to adapt, prioritizing critical functions while furloughing non-essential staff. Citizens are advised to check official agency websites for updates, as some services may resume or change status as negotiations progress.

For ongoing updates and detailed information, consult official sources such as the Government Publishing Office or the White House.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services related to Social Security are affected by the government shutdown?

During the government shutdown, Social Security offices typically continue to operate as essential services. However, some processing and customer service functions may experience delays, and new applications might face longer wait times.

Will the IRS continue to process tax refunds and handle taxpayer assistance during the shutdown?

Most IRS operations are halted during a government shutdown, which includes delays in processing tax refunds and limited taxpayer assistance. Critical operations, such as fraud detection, may continue if deemed essential.

Which Defense Department services remain operational during the shutdown?

The Defense Department maintains essential personnel to ensure national security, including active-duty military members and certain support staff. However, non-essential functions, including some administrative and training activities, are suspended.

Are TSA security screening services at airports impacted by the shutdown?

No, TSA security screening services at airports are considered essential and will continue to operate normally to ensure passenger safety and airport security during the government shutdown.

How can I find out if specific government services are affected during the shutdown?

It is recommended to visit the official agency websites or contact their customer service lines directly for the most current information regarding the status of services during the government shutdown.