When you depend on VA benefits for your healthcare, income, and family’s security, the idea of a government shutdown can feel terrifying. The questions start racing: Will my disability check still come? Can I still see my doctor? Will my GI Bill stop paying my housing allowance?

At The National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we know those fears firsthand—because we’re veterans too. We’ve been in the system, denied by the VA, and left wondering how to take care of our families. That’s exactly why we built our firm: to make the process easier, clearer, and faster for every veteran.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what happens to your VA benefits during a government shutdown, what stays safe, and what you should prepare for—so you can rest easier knowing the facts.

Understanding Government Shutdowns

A government shutdown happens when Congress fails to pass funding bills or continuing resolutions. Non-essential services pause, and many federal employees are furloughed. But here’s the key: the VA is different.

Because the VA receives funding a year in advance for many programs, most veteran benefits continue, even during shutdowns. Here’s how that plays out:

VA Healthcare

  • Still Open: VA hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers remain open.

  • Prescriptions Filled: You’ll still get your meds and access to emergency services.

  • Staff Still Working: Doctors, nurses, and essential staff continue to provide care.

Bottom line: your VA healthcare won’t stop.

Disability Compensation and Pension Payments

  • Payments Continue: Thanks to advance appropriations, your monthly checks will still arrive on time.

  • No Impact to Current Benefits: Veterans receiving disability or pension won’t see disruptions.

  • New Claims May Slow: Processing of new claims and appeals could face delays if staffing is reduced.

Education Benefits (GI Bill)

  • Protected: Tuition payments and housing stipends keep coming.

  • Possible Delays: If you’re filing a brand-new application or changing benefits, expect slower processing.

Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E)

  • Ongoing Services: Counseling and job placement usually continue.

  • Admin Delays: New applications or adjustments might be delayed.

VA Home Loans and Other Benefits

  • Home Loans: VA Home Loan guarantees continue, but processing times may stretch out.

  • Other Benefits: Life insurance and burial benefits continue but new applications can face slowdowns.

Preparing for a Government Shutdown

Even with most benefits continuing, it pays to plan ahead:

  • Refill Prescriptions Early: Don’t wait until you’re on your last dose.

  • Keep Extra Supplies: Stock what you need in case of administrative hiccups.

  • Stay Updated: Check the VA website and VSOs for current info.

  • Talk to the VA: Reach out directly if you have unique concerns.

Common Questions About VA Benefits During a Government Shutdown

Will my disability compensation stop?
No. Payments continue as scheduled.

Can I still see my VA doctor?
Yes. Healthcare services remain open.

Will new claims get processed?
Yes, but expect delays for new claims, appeals, or changes.

Where can I get updates?
The VA website, your local VA, and Veterans Service Organizations are the most reliable sources.

Resources for Veterans

Why Choose The National Security Law Firm?

At NSLF, we believe veterans deserve clarity and peace of mind, even in times of uncertainty.

  • Veterans Fighting for Veterans: Almost all of our attorneys and paralegals are disabled veterans. We’ve fought the VA ourselves.

  • Battle-Tested Leadership: Our founder, Brett O’Brien, is a disabled Army veteran who has fought his own VA battles—including a cancer diagnosis tied to contaminated base water. He built this firm to make sure no veteran stands alone.

  • Trusted Nationwide: Our 4.9-star Google reviews show what veterans across the country say about us.

  • Our Mission: Maximize your benefits in the shortest time possible. No dragging cases out. No games. Just results.

Pricing: How We Get Paid

We only get paid if you win. Period. By law, fees are capped at 20% of your past-due back pay only.

Do You Really Need a Lawyer?

Some veterans handle claims on their own or with a VSO. But here’s why experienced VA disability lawyers usually pay for themselves many times over:

  • We uncover benefits you may not even know you qualify for.

  • We push for higher ratings, faster.

📌 Example:
A 30% rating = $524/month.
A 70% rating = $1,716/month.
That’s $1,192/month more, tax-free, for life. Over 10 years, that’s $143,000 lost if you don’t get the right help.

That’s why veterans who work with experienced attorneys often see results sooner, at higher ratings, and with less stress.

Check out our guide on representation options for VA appeals to see what’s right for you.

Final Word

A government shutdown may cause headlines and political gridlock—but your VA benefits are built to keep flowing. You don’t need to panic, but you should stay informed and prepared.

At The National Security Law Firm, this is personal. We’ve been where you are, and our mission now is to fight for you the way we wish someone had fought for us.

If you’re worried about your VA benefits, let’s talk. We’ll give you peace of mind, help you strategize, and fight to maximize your benefits in the shortest possible time.

👉 Click here to connect with us today.

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.