Partial federal government shutdown

 

The federal government hasn’t passed spending legislation to keep the government open. That means, as of Oct. 1, 2025, portions of the federal government have stopped operating. 

October 2025 food and cash benefits that DSHS issues are still going to recipients. If federal funding is not restored, DSHS will not be able to issue food benefits after Oct. 31.

Cash benefits for November 2025 will still be distributed as usual.

DSHS employees whose positions are funded by the SNAP program might be impacted beginning in early November. If temporary employment impacts take place, employees will be notified directly and provided with resources and information about health benefits and other pertinent details. 

These potential temporary employment impacts also mean that DSHS Tribal outstations might not be staffed until the federal government reopens. Similarly, our agency’s mobile office teams might not operate from until the federal government shutdown is over.

All these potential changes will impact customer experience, likely with longer wait times in our call centers and offices. Thank you in advance for your continued patience.

The Division of Disability Determination Services continues to process all disability claim types with support of state funding during a federal funding lapse. For any questions about Social Security Administration benefit payments, please visit www.ssa.gov for updated information during the federal government shutdown.

The Office of Financial Management is compiling impacts to Washington state agencies on its website.

We continue to analyze potential future impacts to benefits. Please return here to learn more in the coming days.

Partner Toolkit - Key messages, FAQs, etc.

Infographic: Impact of the Federal Government Shutdown on SNAP in Washington State

Client FAQ – Federal Government Shutdown and SNAP – Updated 10/24/2025

Q: Will I get food benefits during the federal government shutdown?

A: If the shutdown continues beyond Oct. 31, 2025, DSHS does not have federal funding available for November 2025 food benefits.

When Congress and the president come to an agreement on the budget, food benefits will resume. We understand the possibility of a delay in benefits is stressful and can be hard on families, and we share your concern.

DSHS will continue to accept applications, eligibility reviews, mid-certification reviews and changes beyond Oct. 31, 2025, and those will be addressed once federal guidance is received.

 

Q: What programs does the federal government shutdown affect starting Nov. 1, 2025?

A: Basic Food benefits, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Food Assistance Program for legal immigrants. The federal government shutdown does not affect medical programs or cash programs in November 2025.

 

Q: Do I need to spend my food benefits before the end of October?

A: No. Any funds already on your EBT card will stay on your EBT card. Unused funds will continue to roll over into the next month and are only removed after 274 days without the EBT card being used. We also encourage you to stretch your food benefits as far as you can, using SNAP Match programs whenever possible.

 

Q: Will grocery stores or other retailers stop accepting EBT benefits?

A: No. Stores will continue to accept EBT benefits for authorized purchases. For a replacement EBT card, you can still call 888-328-9271.

 

Q: Will my Housing and Essential Needs housing assistance end?

A: DSHS does not distribute or manage Housing and Essential Needs housing funds. Please contact your local housing provider with any questions regarding the HEN program.

 

Q: Does this impact school meals?

A: At this time, we do not believe so. Please check with Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for details.

 

Q: What resources are available to me and my family if I don’t have food benefits?

A: We understand this is a stressful time for many people and families. The costs for groceries and daily living expenses continue to be high. We encourage people to connect with local food banks and other organizations that can help support. You can find these local resources at 211.org, wa211.org/resources/food or by calling 211. Washington Connection also has a Find Services tab, and our Division of Child Support’s Alternative Solutions database has extensive resources. We also have a reduced-cost services guide that might be helpful.

 

Q: Who can I talk to about resolving the shutdown?

A: You can contact your federal legislators.