As of October 1st, 2025, the federal government has shut down. Senator Baldwin voted to keep the government open and lower health care costs for Wisconsinites, but the Republican controlled Congress rejected that bill. See Senator Baldwin’s full statement here. Senator Baldwin is in Washington working with her Democratic and Republican colleagues to reopen the government.
This page will be updated frequently to provide information on what services will and will not be available during the government shutdown. Many federal agencies will furlough or even fire federal workers, which will slow response times. In a few cases, agencies may be forced to suspend their services altogether. Some constituent services, such as tour and flag requests, will also be suspended. However, Senator Baldwin's office will remain open to serve you.
Senator Baldwin's office will continue to process constituent requests for help with a federal agency. However, there could be significant delays in resolving issues, and some cases may not receive a response until after the federal government reopens. If you need help with a federal agency, please click here to submit your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm a federal employee. How will I be impacted?
President Trump has said that vast numbers of federal workers are at risk of being laid off during this shutdown. Otherwise, federal workers will either be furloughed or continue to work without pay depending on the decision of their employing agency. Please check with your agency to determine your work status and visit the U.S. Office of Personnel Management website for updates.
All current or furloughed federal workers are guaranteed backpay after the conclusion of the shutdown. Furloughed employees may also be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. Visit the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website to learn more.
Many banks and credit unions are offering support for federal workers. Click here to learn more.
Contact 211 for more resources in your community. Click here to learn more.
If you are a federal worker who has been furloughed or fired and you would like to share your story, click here.
Senator Baldwin supported legislation to pay all federal employees during the shutdown. Read more here.
What will happen to my Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?
If you receive Social Security or SSI, you will continue to receive your benefits during the shutdown. However, some the services offered by the Social Security Administration may be impacted.
What will happen to my Medicare or Medicaid benefits?
What will happen to my Veterans benefits?
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will continue to process and deliver benefits to veterans, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits. Check the VA website for updates.
Is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) open?
The IRS has paused many taxpayer services, including answering phone calls. The Taxpayer Advocate Service has also ceased operations. If you filed for a six-month extension for your 2024 tax returns in April, you are still required to file by October 15, 2025. Check the IRS website for updates.
How is the Small Business Administration (SBA) impacted during a shutdown?
The SBA will not approve new 7(a), 504 or microloan loans or service existing 7(a), 504 or microloan loans. If eligible, you can still apply for loans through SBA's Disaster Loan Program. The SBA will also pause all support for the 8(a) Business Development program, the secondary market loan program, and the Small Business Investment Company program. Check the SBA's website for updates.
Will I still receive mail through the U.S. Postal Service?
Yes, mail delivery through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will continue throughout the shutdown.
What happens to my food assistance benefits?
October benefits are available for WIC participants, and per the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, November benefits will likely be available. At this time during the federal government shutdown, you can use your WIC benefits, attend WIC appointments, and do not need to take any action. Learn more here.
November benefits for FoodShare members will be delayed. Foodshare benefits are 100 percent funded by the federal government and the shutdown will need to end before members can start getting benefits again. Benefits may not be available in November. This may include any funds remaining on your card at the end of October. FoodShare members may want to use their benefits to stock up on food before the end of October. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services will continue to closely monitor the current federal government shutdown and update members about their benefits. Call 211 to find out about other sources of food assistance in your area. Learn more here.
Will I be able to get a new passport or renew my passport during the shutdown?
Consular operations domestically and abroad will remain operational. This includes passports, visas, and assisting U.S. citizens abroad.
What does this mean for disaster relief efforts?
In the short term, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) core disaster relief functions are not likely to be impacted. However, no new policies can be written under the National Flood Insurance Program. Check FEMA's website for updates.
I have a federal student loan. How will I be impacted?
The Department of Education will continue to disburse student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student loans, and student loan borrowers will still be required to make payments on their outstanding student debt. The Department of Education will also make Title I and IDEA grant funding available as usual. Check the Department of Education's website for updates.
I'm visiting Washington, D.C. Will I still be able to take tours?
Unfortunately, no. All tours of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and FBI Building will be canceled.