Do military get paid if government shuts down?

Do Military Get Paid if Government Shuts Down?

What Happens During a Government Shutdown?

A government shutdown occurs when the federal government reaches a funding impasse and is unable to operate due to a lack of appropriations. This can happen when Congress fails to pass a budget or continuing resolution (CR) to fund government agencies and programs. During a shutdown, non-essential government services are suspended, and many federal employees are furloughed, meaning they are temporarily laid off without pay.

How Does a Government Shutdown Affect Military Personnel?

When a government shutdown occurs, the Department of Defense (DoD) and the military are exempt from the shutdown, with some exceptions. The DoD is considered a "excepted" agency, which means that it continues to operate and receive funding even during a shutdown. Military personnel are still required to report for duty and perform their normal duties, even if other government agencies are closed.

Military Pay During a Government Shutdown

So, do military personnel get paid during a government shutdown? The answer is yes, with some exceptions. According to the Pay Our Military Act, signed into law in 2013, military personnel continue to receive their regular paychecks during a government shutdown. This means that active-duty personnel, including officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees, will continue to receive their regular pay and benefits.

Exceptions to Military Pay During a Shutdown

While most military personnel continue to receive their regular pay, there are some exceptions:

• Reserve and National Guard personnel: Members of the Reserve and National Guard may not receive pay during a shutdown if they are not called to active duty.
• Civilian employees: While most civilian employees are exempt from furloughs, some may be subject to furloughs or have their pay delayed.
• New recruits: New recruits may not receive their initial enlistment bonuses or other recruitment incentives during a shutdown.

Other Benefits During a Government Shutdown

In addition to pay, military personnel may also continue to receive other benefits during a shutdown, including:

• Healthcare: Military personnel and their families continue to receive healthcare benefits, including medical care and prescription medication.
• Housing and food allowances: Military personnel may continue to receive their regular housing and food allowances.
• Education benefits: Military personnel may continue to receive education benefits, such as the GI Bill.

Table: Military Pay and Benefits During a Government Shutdown

Conclusion

In summary, military personnel are generally exempt from the effects of a government shutdown and continue to receive their regular pay and benefits. While there may be some exceptions, most military personnel can continue to perform their duties and receive their regular compensation without interruption.