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Government Shutdown Resource Center

The U.S. government partially shutdown on Jan. 31, 2026.

This shutdown follows the longest government shutdown in U.S. history in the fall of 2025 at 43 days. Data shows more than 300,000 Virginians are employed by the federal government, and that's not counting the thousands who work for government contractors. CPAs who complete tax returns are particularly interested in how the shutdown will affect IRS operations.

Below are news, articles and resources related to the current shutdown.

Looking for something more? We're here to help! Reach out to VSCPA Membership Director Julia Henderson any time.

❔Frequently Asked Questions

I'm a federal employee. Will I receive a paycheck?

All federal employees are guaranteed back pay once the federal government reopens, thanks to the Government Fair Employee Treatment Act, which guarantees back pay for federal employees for that and all future shutdowns (though not federal contractors).

What's going on at the IRS? Is it open?

The IRS will stay fully staffed for the first five working days of the partial government shutdown, a lapsed appropriations contingency plan posted the last week of January 2026 shows — temporarily easing concerns that the IRS would furlough employees during tax filing season.

Are there any changes to tax deadlines?

Tax deadlines remained unchanged, according to our latest information. However, delays may occur in refund processing, customer service response, online account access, or in other items.

How is the Small Business Administration impacted?

The Small Business Administration (SBA) will not approve new small business loans or modify existing loans for the 7(a) and 504 programs. You can still apply for loans through SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, but there may be delays.

Will the government release reports?

Most reports are suspended along with government operations. At this time, we don't expect a jobs report, or information from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, Securities & Exchange Commission, etc.

What government agencies/programs are not impacted?

Some areas not affected from a government shutdown are:

  • Essential public safety and national security services
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants Children (WIC) benefits (at least through October).
  • Social Security (though payments may be delayed). 
  • Medicare and Medicaid (though payments may be delayed). 

It's important to note that many federal employees in essential positions will be asked to work without pay.