Which Services Are Open During the U.S. Government Shutdown?

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The U.S. federal government entered a partial shutdown on October 1, 2025, after lawmakers in Congress failed to agree on a new funding bill before the fiscal deadline. As a result, several agencies have halted non-essential services, while critical functions will continue.

Essential services remain active. The military, law enforcement, and air traffic control continue to function, though many employees are required to work without immediate pay. Federal courts will also stay open until at least October 17 by using reserve funds.

Some health and safety functions, such as border protection and emergency medical care, will not be interrupted. Social Security and Medicare payments are also unaffected.

Services on Hold

A wide range of programs and services are suspended. Federal agencies have furloughed large numbers of employees, pausing research projects, regulatory work, and administrative functions.

• The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has sent home more than 90 percent of its staff, keeping only a small team for urgent cases.
• National parks have reduced operations. While outdoor areas such as hiking trails remain open, visitor centers and other facilities are closed.
• Publication of some major U.S. economic reports has been paused, affecting access to up-to-date data for businesses and markets.

Economic Impact

Financial markets responded quickly. Oil prices dropped to a 16-week low on demand concerns. Gold prices reached record highs, and the U.S. dollar weakened against major currencies. U.S. stocks saw mixed movement as investors adjusted to uncertainty.

The shutdown also threatens to delay approvals for new stock listings, disrupting the initial public offering (IPO) market, which relies on federal regulatory clearance.

Warning from the White House

The White House has cautioned that if the shutdown continues, layoffs could follow in several government departments. Agencies are reviewing non-essential roles that may be cut or paused until funding resumes.

Until lawmakers in Congress pass a funding measure, the shutdown will remain in effect. For millions of Americans, it means limited access to federal services while the nation’s essential operations continue under restricted capacity.