What a Government Shutdown Means for SSDI/SSI Benefits

A federal government shutdown raises serious concerns for many people who rely on SSDI and SSI. But the good news: monthly disability and income-support payments are not interrupted. Still, some services could be delayed and processing slower. At Green & Greenberg, we help claimants understand their rights and plan accordingly.

Payments Continue, but Services May Slow

Here’s what you need to know:

• The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirms that during a funding lapse, SSDI and SSI payments will still go out on time.
• Because SSDI and SSI are funded via mandatory spending, they don’t require new annual appropriations to make payments.
• That means if Congress fails to pass a funding bill, your benefit check should still arrive as scheduled.

However:

• Some field‐office services may be reduced. For example, benefit-verification letters, earnings-record updates, and certain customer-service functions might be paused or delayed.
• New applications, reconsiderations, and appeals may face longer wait times during a shutdown.

What Applicants Should Be Alert To

If you are in the process of applying for disability or have a claim pending, the shutdown can mean:

• Slower processing of your application or appeal.
• Delays in scheduling hearings before an administrative law judge (ALJ).
• Reduced staff in SSA offices and fewer available support resources.
• Less online or phone assistance for tasks like verifying your earnings, updating your address, or getting a proof-of-benefits letter.

Because of these risks, acting early and strategically is key. That’s where we help. At Green & Greenberg, we prepare strong applications, monitor progress, and guide claimants through the process—especially when delays threaten their rights.

Why This Matters for SSI as Well as SSDI

While SSDI is earned-benefit based, SSI is a needs-based program for older adults and people with disabilities with limited resources. The shutdown affects both similarly:

• SSI payments are also considered mandatory spending and continue during a shutdown.
• But administrative processes for SSI—such as reporting income changes, updating living arrangements, or changing a representative payee—may slow down.

For someone receiving SSI, it is especially important to keep documentation up-to-date and meet reporting deadlines, as delays can cause confusion or temporary disruption of benefits even when payment funding is secure.

How Green & Greenberg Can Support You

During a shutdown, the disability-benefits process may become more unclear and slower than usual. That’s why at Green & Greenberg we:

• Ensure your application or appeal is filed correctly and fully from the start.
• Help you track your case status and communicate with SSA despite service delays.
• Provide strategies to plan financially in case a delay disrupts other supports you count on.
• Advocate on your behalf, especially if a shutdown causes unexpected delays or complications.

Final Thoughts

A government shutdown might sound alarming, but the core facts are reassuring for people receiving SSDI or SSI: your benefit check is highly likely to arrive on time. However, other services may slow down, and applicants should plan accordingly.

At Green & Greenberg, our mission is to protect your rights, clarify your case, and help you stay ahead, even when the federal system itself is under strain. If you’re applying for disability, appealing a denial, or worried about how a shutdown might affect you, reach out to us today. We’ll guide you through every step and help you keep everything on track.