The government has shut down after lawmakers failed to break a deadlock and pass a stopgap spending bill, but one of the most pressing questions for millions of Americans has a simple answer—Social Security checks will keep coming.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) made clear in a contingency plan dated Sept. 24 that retirement, survivor, and disability benefits are not subject to annual budget fights and will continue to be paid on time. These programs are funded through payroll tax revenues and trust funds established under the Social Security Act, which shields them from the effects of a government shutdown.
“Funding for the programs under Titles II, XVI, and XVIII of the Social Security Act will continue, even in the event of a lapse in appropriations,” wrote Tom Holland, the agency’s chief financial officer. He said the agency would continue “activities critical to our direct-service operations and those needed to ensure accurate and timely payment of benefits.”…