Congressional and White House Staff Face First Missed October Paychecks Amid 28-Day Shutdown Impacting Millions

As the federal government shutdown in October 2025 approaches a full month, House and White House staffers are facing their first missed paychecks, causing financial strain for many. House staffers, who are paid monthly, were officially informed that their October 31 paycheck would be delayed until funding is restored, while Senate staffers had already missed earlier bimonthly payments. Many staffers are seeking short-term loans and dipping into savings, but loan applications are delayed due to high demand. The shutdown also threatens to cut off critical food assistance programs, with the USDA unable to fund November's food stamp benefits amid the funding impasse. Congressional efforts to reopen the government have stalled, with the Senate voting down the House-passed funding bill, prolonging uncertainty for federal workers. Additionally, congressional educational assistance programs for staffers, such as student loan repayments, are also unfunded during the shutdown, forcing individuals to make alternate arrangements.