Federal Government Shutdown – October 2025
As of October 1st, 2025, the federal government is officially shutdown. United Way 211 is here to support individuals and families who may be affected during this uncertain time.
Many programs in Minnesota are managed by the state, but several rely on federal funding or support and may be impacted during the shutdown. Additional information for specific programs can be found below. For questions and assistance, dial 211 to speak with a trained community resource specialist.
Energy Assistance Program – EAP
The state’s Energy Assistance Program is still waiting for federal funding for this program year. Benefits may be delayed due to the government shutdown. However, applications are still currently being accepted, and individuals are encouraged to apply.
Click here to view the full notice on the Minnesota Department of Commerce website.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families has received notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Services that if the federal government shutdown continues into November, there will not be enough funds to pay November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program -SNAP benefits.
Current SNAP Households Receiving Benefits Before Wednesday, October 15, 2025: Households should continue to use benefits as usual. They should keep their contact information up to date with their county or Tribal Nation so that they can receive messages about their case. November’s benefits are at risk and may be unavailable if the shutdown continues.
Households Applying for SNAP Benefits: Individuals and families can apply for SNAP benefits through the end of October, but as of Wednesday, October 15, 2025, counties and Tribal Nations can continue to review applications and work with applicants, but they cannot approve households for new benefits.
Who to Contact With Questions: Households should contact their county or Tribal Nation where their case resides with any questions about it.
Follow the links below for additional information on the government shutdown:
Congress.gov FAQ on Government Shutdowns and Executive Branch Operations