When the Pay Stops but the Work Continues: Supporting Hill Staff in a Shutdown

It is no secret that Congressional staff work in an unpredictable environment. From late-night votes to canceled district work periods, working in Congress means you learn to go with the flow (even if the flow means canceling weekend plans)! But what many are not prepared for is having to work without pay, being furloughed from your position, or missing a paycheck. Unfortunately, during a government shutdown, that is the reality for thousands of federal employees, including Congressional staff. 

During a shutdown, Legislative branch staff are subject to excepted status (being deemed essential to the office but will work without being paid) or furloughed status (being sent home without pay until legislative funding is restored). Though back pay historically has been included in funding agreements following a shutdown, it is not legally guaranteed, and this continued uncertainty can provide serious financial strain for staff. 

While each office manages its own personnel matters, we encourage Members and senior staff in Congressional offices to consider the following examples of how Executive branch agencies are assisting their employees.

For example, the US Department of Labor (DOL) issued a letter for furloughed employees to share with creditors, landlords, and financial institutions. The letter confirms the employee’s status, explains that the furlough is beyond their control, and requests that creditors show flexibility and understanding during the shutdown.

Communicating resources and compassion, especially to junior staff, during these times of uncertainty goes a long way in building a strong and trusting team.

Other Executive branch agency letters provided to staff, for reference:

  • Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service Creditor Letter, October 2025

  • Department of Transportation Creditor Letter, January 2019

  • Department of Homeland Security Creditor Letter, October 2025

Congressional offices may wish to develop a similar communication or resource to help staff document their employment status and request accommodation from creditors or service providers while a government shutdown continues.

Providing these types of documents for staff is a simple, compassionate step that can help reduce financial stress for employees without requiring any additional administrative action or expense. 

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