How Is The 2025 Government Shutdown Affecting Social Security Benefits?

As of October 1, 2025, the federal government has shut down, impacting many agencies, including the Social Security Administration (SSA).

At Daggett Shuler, we understand the uncertainty this creates for people who rely on or are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Every day, we guide clients through this complex system—and even during the shutdown, our work on your behalf continues.

What SSA Services Are Still Operating?

Essential SSA staff remain on duty to handle critical operations. That means:

• Current beneficiaries will continue receiving their disability payments without interruption.

For those seeking benefits, we continue to help clients with:

• Filing new SSDI or SSI applications
• Submitting appeals
• Attending scheduled disability hearings

However, some non-essential SSA services are temporarily paused, including:

• Requests for proof-of-income letters
• Replacement Medicare cards
• Updates to earnings records

These services are expected to resume once the government reopens.

Should You File or Appeal During the Shutdown?

Yes, absolutely. You should still move forward with your application or appeal. It’s important to know that:

• Roughly 70% of initial applications are denied.
• Appeals must be filed within 60 days, otherwise, the process starts over.

It’s also important to choose a law firm that has a Board-Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability Law that knows how to navigate these challenges and build the strongest case possible, even amid government delays.

We’re Here to Help

At Daggett Shuler, we know how stressful it can be to wait and fight for the benefits you deserve. We’re proud to help disabled individuals and their families with dignity, respect, and proven experience.

If you or someone you love is waiting on Social Security Disability benefits, give us a call. We’d be honored to help you move forward.

Additional Resources

We recognize that additional benefits such as SNAP are also being affected by the shutdown. Here are some online resources that may be able to assist you.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC: Second Harvest maintains a wide network of food banks, soup kitchens, and meal programs across North Carolina.

NC 211: The United Way provides this service to connect you with many types of resources, including food, shelter, housing, and more.

Feeding America: Find food banks in your area by entering your zip code.

FindHelp.org: Get information for food banks, housing assistance, and cash assistance programs in your area.