October 29, 2025
Topic: The Government Shutdown and Your Pay — What’s Really Going On
The federal government shutdown is still active, and while troops will eventually receive full pay, timing and allowances could be disrupted if it continues. This update breaks down what’s happening, how it affects your wallet, and what actions to take now to stay ready.
The 2025 shutdown began October 1 after Congress failed to pass funding. The Pentagon has been using temporary funds to keep service members paid, but those stopgaps won’t last. The Department of Defense confirmed that if the shutdown extends into November, pay delays are possible.
Air & Space Forces Magazine reported that billions in unused funds were redirected earlier this month to cover the October 15 pay cycle. Pentagon officials said, “We can only move money around for so long.”
Meanwhile, Time found that food pantries on bases in Virginia, North Carolina, and California have seen up to 300% more use since the shutdown began. For families relying on both military and federal civilian incomes, even short delays can cause serious strain.
Although the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act guarantees back pay, it doesn’t guarantee timing. In past shutdowns, some service members waited one to two pay cycles before receiving full pay. Financial readiness now can prevent scrambling later.
Stay financially ready. Explore tools, guides, and calculators made for service members at Valentor Financial. Share this brief with your unit or peers who could benefit.