Congress failed to reach an agreement on funding beginning October 1, 2025. With the federal shutdown now in its second month, many people are asking how it affects Social Security Disability cases. Here’s what you should know:

THE GOOD NEWS:

IF YOU ARE ALREADY RECEIVING BENEFITS, Social Security and SSI payments will continue during the government shutdown. There will be no change in payment dates. You will receive your payments on time.

Payment of these benefits do not rely on the government appropriating additional funds. These benefits are protected because they’re paid from trust funds—not the regular federal budget.

Offices will remain open to the public, but will provide reduced services. During this time, you can still:

  • Apply for benefits
  • Request an appeal
  • Change your address or direct deposit information
  • Report a death
  • Verify or change citizenship status
  • Replace a lost or missing Social Security payment
  • Obtain a critical payment
  • Change a representative payee
  • Make a change in living arrangements or income (SSI recipients only)
  • Obtain a new or replacement Social Security card

WHAT’S IMPACTED

Social Security offices will not be able to provide the following services:

  • Proof of benefits letters
  • Updated or corrected earnings records

IF YOU HAVE NOT YET BEEN APPROVED FOR BENEFITS

If your disability claim is pending, the government is not able to order your medical records. However, they will accept medical records that are submitted on your behalf, and can use these to make a decision.

The government cannot order medical evaluations (called consultative exams). However, any exams scheduled prior to October 8, 2025 will still take place.

SOCIAL SECURITY HEARINGS

Social Security hearings will still be scheduled and hearings will be held. You can still have your hearing whether it is by telephone, video, or in-person. The hearing offices (Office of Hearings Operations) remain open and operational. However, they also cannot order medical records or schedule consultative exams.

If you’ve been thinking about applying or need to appeal a denial, contact our office. It is best not to wait. Your filing date matters for back benefits, and SSA deadlines don’t pause during the shutdown.

Our team at Hall & Rouse continues to work on all active cases. If you need help applying or appealing during the shutdown, we’re here to guide you through the process.