10.24.2025 By Amy Miller, AFC®

We’re Here for You: Navigating Financial Uncertainty During the Government Shutdown

America Saves has always been here to help individuals and families build financial confidence, and that doesn’t stop when times get tough.

If you’ve been affected by the government shutdown, we want you to know this: you are not alone. America Saves has always been here to help individuals and families build financial confidence, and that doesn’t stop when times get tough.

Whether you’re a federal employee waiting on your next paycheck, a contractor whose hours have been reduced, or part of a household feeling the ripple effects of the shutdown, there are steps you can take right now to stay in control and protect your financial well-being.

Here are some tips to help you get through this challenging time and come out strong on the other side.

1. Prioritize Your Most Important Expenses

Start by making a list of your essential needs - housing, utilities, food, transportation, and medical care. These are the things that keep you and your family safe and stable.

If you anticipate being unable to cover an upcoming bill, reach out to your landlord, mortgage lender, or utility company as soon as possible. Many organizations have hardship programs designed to help during times of income disruption, including federal shutdowns.

2. Communicate Early and Often

Be proactive in contacting your creditors and service providers. Whether it’s a credit card company, auto loan, or insurance provider, most have processes in place to help during temporary hardships.

Here’s what to say:

“I’ve been impacted by the government shutdown and may have difficulty making my next payment. Are there any hardship programs or deferment options available?”

Communicating early shows responsibility, and it often leads to more flexible solutions

3. Tap Into Community and Employer Resources

During shutdowns, many local nonprofits, food banks, credit unions, and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) offer direct support. Your workplace, union, or professional association may also have emergency assistance or low-interest loan programs.

Use this as an opportunity to connect with trusted partners in your community. You can find local resources through dialing 2-1-1 or visiting 211.org. 

You can also check out our list of trusted resources here.

4. Focus on What You Can Control

Uncertainty can be stressful, especially when your income is on pause. Focus on the financial behaviors that are within your control:

  • Pause non-essential spending.
  • Reassess subscriptions or recurring expenses.
  • Stay organized with a written spending plan.
  • Use this time to review your goals and priorities.

Small, steady steps add up. Even during hardship, you’re building financial resilience.

5. Plan for Recovery

When the shutdown ends and pay resumes, take time to reset and rebuild.

  • Replenish your emergency fund (start with a goal of $500 and build from there).
  • Set up an automatic transfer into savings each pay period. Even $10 makes a difference.
  • Consider taking the America Saves Pledge to receive ongoing support, tools, and accountability as you move forward.

You’ve weathered uncertainty before, and you can do it again. America Saves stands with you, ready to help you make a plan, find support, and take small steps toward stability and peace of mind.

Because saving with confidence isn’t about perfection, it’s about persistence, even in challenging times.

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