In light of the government shutdown, below please find a potpourri of reminders and resources:
- NTEU has a Shutdown Resources and Information page that will be updated over time and contains, among other things, FAQs about shutdowns.
- OPM has published Guidance for Shutdown Furloughs, which includes FAQs and rules for the agency employees.
- Federal employees must be paid backpay after a shutdown as mandated by the Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019.
- Federal employees keep their healthcare under the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program during a shutdown.
- Federal employees can take out TSP loans during a shutdown and then pay themselves back after the shutdown ends.
- Federal credit unions provide interest-free loans during government shutdowns.
- Furloughed employees are often eligible for unemployment insurance in their state. Though, this must be repaid when the employee receives back-pay. Unfortunately, exempted staff are typically not eligible.
- For those who are in need, and those who are able to donate (tax-deductibly), the Community Services Agency of the Metro Washington Labor Council has a Federal Worker Solidarity Fund.
- In past shutdowns, the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund has offered micro-grants to support federal employees impacted by a shutdown, covering essentials like groceries, gas, diapers, and other basic necessities. If this is offered again, more information should be available here.
- Maryland has a helpful federal employee resources page which includes guidance on unemployment benefits during a shutdown. Note that you apply for benefits in the state of your duty station rather than your state of residence.