The looming federal government shutdown is now reality.
Congress failed to reach a funding deal by midnight on Wednesday, resulting in the suspension of some federal services and placing some federal workers on furlough.
At this time, it is unclear which federal services have been halted by the shutdown or how long the shutdown will last. During past government shutdowns, critical services were maintained while nonessential services were cut.
Many government services have posted contingency plans on their website outlining which services will remain available and which are paused during the shutdown.
Social Security and Medicare benefits are not expected to be impacted by the shutdown. A message on the Social Security Agency website stated that people currently receiving Social Securit