Will the federal government shutdown affect you? Tell us about it

Time has run out for Congress to pass a federal funding bill to keep the federal government open. Mariam Zuhaib/AP

The federal government has shut down for the first time in six years because Congress failed to approve a federal spending bill before October 1.

Republicans and Democrats are still far apart in coming to an agreement to continue funding the federal government. One of the central issues is extending the enhanced premium subsidies for Affordable Care Act coverage.

The shutdown could disrupt the lives of many Americans, particularly federal employees, many of whom who will not be paid until the impasse ends.

National parks may be closed or unstaffed. Some federal housing subsidies could run out of funding. The US Food and Drug Administration must limit inspections. Mai