Government Shutdown Resources

Long Island is fortunate to have a robust network of community-based organizations which provide safety net services to individuals and families in need.

United Way’s information and referral system, 2-1-1 Long Island, is available 24/7 to provide referrals to existing local resources.  Trained call specialists can help assess needs and make referrals to the most appropriate services.  For furloughed government workers, this could include Dept. of Social Service offices for public benefits, the Home Energy Assistance Program (H.E.A.P.) intake sites for emergency heating needs, food pantries/food resources, Dept. of Labor, Career Centers, etc.

Dial 2-1-1 (or 1.888.774.7633) – open 24 hours, seven days a week

United Way of Long Island’s heating assistance program, Project Warmth, is also open to help with one-time emergency fuel deliveries or utility heating payments to those not eligible for, or who have exhausted, emergency H.E.A.P.  Application required – call 2-1-1 Long Island for referrals to a Project Warmth intake site.  Project Warmth will remain open until funds are depleted, generally in March.

New Resource:  2-1-1US has created a new national resource to provide answers to commonly asked questions regarding public benefits at http://211.org/services/govshutdown Site   also includes information about financial relief and support resources from corporations on a national level.  Check the website often –more information will be posted as it becomes available.

The New York State Department of Labor has information about eligibility for Unemployment Insurance benefits and potential responsibility for the repayment of benefits at https://www.labor.ny.gov/ui/furloughed-federal-workers.shtm.  Department of Labor functions, including Unemployment Insurance benefits and workforce development programs like Career Centers, will not be impacted by a short-term federal government shutdown.

NOTE:

  • The Department of Defense is funded through September 30, 2019 which means all DoD military members, military retirees, military annuitants (survivor benefit recipients), and DoD civilian employees will receive their regular paychecks through that date.
  • The Internal Revenue Service confirmed that it will process tax returns beginning January 28, 2019 and provide refunds to taxpayers as scheduled.

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