Shutdown Support: Finding Real Bank Assistance (Safely)

As the government shutdown continues, many federal employees and military families are feeling the financial strain. While service members are still scheduled to be paid on October 15, many federal civilians, even those working as “excepted” aren’t receiving pay right now.

The good news: many banks and credit unions are stepping up to help. Institutions like United Services Automobile Association (USAA) and Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) are offering zero-interest loans and payment relief for qualifying members. You can also check the American Bankers Association’s verified list of participating banks at aba.com/government-shutdown-bank-action-2025

Scammers often take advantage of situations like this. To stay safe:

• Go directly to your bank’s website. Type the URL yourself (for example, usaa.com or navyfederal.org).
  
• Don’t click links from random emails, texts, or social media posts claiming to offer “shutdown relief.”
• Use trusted sources like the ABA’s official site to confirm real programs.
• Call your bank directly using the number on your card or their mobile app to ask about help.

You’re Not Alone... Financial relief is available. You just need to go through legitimate channels. Check official sites like:

• usaa.com/support/government-shutdown-program
• navyfederal.org/about/government-shutdown.html

If in doubt, don’t click — call. Help is out there, and your bank wants to see you through this shutdown safely.