Back to News October 02, 2025
SSD Benefits During the Government Shutdown: What You Need to Know
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As you may have heard, Congress failed to reach a funding agreement before the September 30th deadline. As a result, the federal government officially shut down on October 1, 2025, with no clear end date.
We understand that this news may cause concern for people who depend on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Pond Lehocky Giordano wants to provide you with clear information about what this means for your benefits and your case. We also invite you to share any concerns you may have with your lawyer. Don’t have a lawyer? We offer free, no-obligation legal consultations. Call us at 1-800-568-7500 or contact us online today.
What Will Continue During the Shutdown
- Monthly Payments: If you currently receive SSDI or SSI benefits, you will continue to receive your checks on time. Payment dates will not change.
- Applications & Appeals: New and pending disability applications (initial, reconsideration, hearings, and Appeals Council) will continue to be processed.
- Hearings: Disability hearings before Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are continuing as scheduled.
- Field Office Services: Local SSA offices will remain open with limited staffing. In addition to applying for benefits or requesting an appeal, you can still:
- Change your address or direct deposit info
- Report a death
- Replace a lost or missing payment
- Obtain a new or replacement Social Security card
- Make changes to living arrangements or income (SSI recipients)
What Will Stop or Be Delayed
- Processing of overpayments
- Correcting earnings records
- Enrolling appointed representatives for e-folder access
- Processing bias complaints
- Conducting quality assurance reviews (except for allowances)
- Responding to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests
- Responding to most third-party information requests
Navigating the Shutdown with Confidence
Because many Social Security Administration (SSA) employees have been furloughed, you may notice longer wait times on SSA’s phone lines, delays in certain documentation services (like benefit verification letters), and slower processing of appeals and decisions.
At Pond Lehocky Giordano, we know how important these benefits are to you and your family. As always, we will continue to advocate for you during this uncertain time. If you have questions about your case or benefits, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance. Call us at 1-800-568-7500 or contact us online today.
