Will Military Get Paid During a Government Shutdown?
Introduction
A government shutdown occurs when the United States government fails to pass a budget or funding bill, resulting in a halt of non-essential government services and the furloughing of non-essential personnel. The military, as a vital part of the country’s national security and defense, is often concerned about their pay and benefits during such an event. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question: Will military get paid during a government shutdown?
Will Military Personnel Continue to Receive Pay?
Contrary to popular belief, the military is exempt from government shutdowns, meaning that military personnel will continue to receive their pay during a shutdown. This is due to the fact that the military’s funding is derived from a separate appropriation bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Table 1: Military Pay During a Government Shutdown
| Pay Grade | Monthly Basic Pay (2022) |
|---|---|
| E-1 (Seaman Recruit) | $1,785 |
| E-9 (Master Chief Petty Officer) | $6,371 |
| O-1 (Second Lieutenant) | $3,287 |
| O-10 (General) | $16,191 |
Source: US Department of Defense (2022)
As seen in Table 1, military personnel receive their pay based on their rank and time in service. Despite a government shutdown, the military will continue to pay their personnel as normal, ensuring that the armed forces remain operational and able to carry out their duties.
What About Contractors?
On the other hand, military contractors may not be so fortunate. As contractors are not part of the federal workforce, they are often subject to the same funding constraints as the rest of the government. During a shutdown, contractors may experience delays or cancellations in their work, leading to uncertainty about their pay.
Will Benefits Continue During a Government Shutdown?
Yes, most military benefits will continue during a government shutdown. This includes:
- Tricare (military healthcare) – continues to be available
- Food assistance (such as the Commissary Subsistence Allowance) – continues to be provided
- Housing allowances – continues to be paid
- Education benefits (such as the GI Bill) – continues to be available
However, some benefits may be impacted or delayed, including:
- Payroll taxes – may be delayed
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) – may be delayed or restricted
- Survivor benefits – may be delayed
How Long Can a Government Shutdown Last?
A government shutdown can last for as long as Congress fails to agree on a budget or funding bill. In the past, shutdowns have lasted anywhere from a few days to several weeks. For example:
- The 2013 government shutdown lasted 16 days
- The 2018-2019 government shutdown lasted 35 days
- The 2020 government shutdown lasted 3 days
Conclusion
In conclusion, military personnel will continue to receive their pay during a government shutdown, while military contractors may experience uncertainty about their pay. Most military benefits will continue, although some may be impacted or delayed. It is essential for military personnel and their families to be prepared for potential disruptions during a shutdown.
Additional Resources
For more information on government shutdowns and their impact on the military, visit:
- US Department of Defense: www.defense.gov
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: www.va.gov
- Congressional Budget Office: www.cbo.gov
By understanding how a government shutdown may affect the military, individuals can better prepare themselves for any potential disruptions and continue to serve their country with confidence.
