While the political blame game continues in Washington, Iowans are left wondering what services will continue and what will be delayed. Here’s what to know:

Social Security and Medicare

Benefits continue uninterrupted.

New applications and some customer services may face delays.

Medicare, Medicaid and disability insurance

Benefits continue for current recipients.

A shutdown of less than three months should not affect payments.

SNAP & WIC

Food assistance programs remain operational, though future delays are possible if the shutdown drags on.

Veterans

All VA hospitals and clinics remain open.

Benefits processing continues, but some backlogs may develop.

Federal employees and military

“Excepted” workers, including active-duty military and federal law enforcement, must work withou

See Full Page