Are You Impacted by the U.S. Government Shutdown? Peak is Here to Help.

You may have heard that the U.S. government recently shut down, resulting in the government running out of funding to pay its bills. As a result, the distribution of government benefit payments could be disrupted in this cycle.

We understand the enormity of this situation. Many of our members rely on these benefit payments for their day-to-day expenses and to maintain their livelihoods.

If you’re a Peak Credit Union member, your deposits will remain insured and protected during the government shutdown – due to the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund being fully funded and independent of the federal budget process. 

What Might Be Impacted by the Government Shutdown

As of October 1, 2025, the following benefit payments may be impacted:

• Payments to active employees of the U.S. Government
• Payments to active duty military and active duty Guard and Reservist personnel

Important Note: All of the above payment types are exempt from garnishment. So, when these payments resume (hopefully soon), you can prioritize where they go first.

Benefit Payments Not Impacted

The following benefit payments are scheduled as usual with no interruptions:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Office of Personnel Management (OPM) retirement
• Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) retirement
• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) compensation and pension
• Social Security (SSA) cycle 1 benefits
• Department of Labor (DOL) black lung legacy payments (Company Entry Description not publicly available)
• Payments to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Payments could be disrupted if funds run out for this program during the government shutdown.  
• Pell Grants and Federal Direct student loans. Student loan payments still need to be made during the government shutdown.   

Health Benefits That Will Continue

• All Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities and clinics will remain operational
• Current Medicare, Medicaid, and disability insurance beneficiaries will continue to receive their benefits (after three months, benefits may be impacted)

How to Protect Yourself Financially During the Government Shutdown

During this time of uncertainty, it’s a good idea to be proactive and take steps to mitigate any potential financial burdens. Here are some tips that you may find helpful:

• Be aware of your resources. There’s no time like now to determine what resources are available to you if you haven’t already. You might be surprised at the number of programs that can help support you. For example, at Peak you may be eligible for special loan programs. We also offer a program that allows you to skip select loan payments once a year.

• Review your current financial situation. Assess your current and available resources. Take note of any support systems or assistance programs that you may be eligible for such as emergency financial aid or food banks.

• Contact your local service providers. Reach out to your utility companies and service providers to discuss payment options or extensions. Many businesses also have hardship programs that can help. If you rent your home, it might also be worth talking to your landlord about possible options.

• Budget for essential expenses. Create a budget that covers critical expenses like housing, utilities, food, and medical. Evaluate your discretionary spending and determine what adjustments you can make to stretch your existing resources.

Need Assistance? Contact Us. We’re Here to Help!

As always, Peak Credit Union is here for you every step of the way. We’re committed to helping every member who might need assistance until this unfortunate situation is resolved. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (800) 258-3115 or visit a branch location to speak with a Peak representative.

For more information about our special loan programs, visit your local branch or call us.