When paychecks are delayed — whether from a government shutdown or other disruptions — things can get tight fast. Rent’s still due, groceries don’t buy themselves, and the lights have to stay on. The good news? There is help out there, especially for military families and federal employees.

Here’s a quick guide to where you can find real support right now.

💼 Emergency Financial Support for Military Families

If you or someone in your household serves in the military — active duty or National Guard — several long-standing programs are stepping up to provide short-term help for essentials like rent, food, utilities, and transportation.

🔹 Air Force Aid Society (AFAS)

  • Who it’s for: Active duty Airmen, Guardians, and eligible dependents

  • What they offer: Emergency financial assistance for basic needs — food, rent, utility bills, car repairs

  • Website: afas.org

🔹 Army Emergency Relief (AER)

  • Who it’s for: Active duty Soldiers and eligible Army families

  • What they offer: 0% interest loans and grants — up to $6,000 or a full paycheck during a shutdown

  • Website: armyemergencyrelief.org

🔹 National Guard Relief Foundation

  • Who it’s for: Members of the National Guard

  • What they offer: Emergency financial aid and hardship support for Guard families

  • Website: ngaus.org/foundation

🏦 Support From Banks & Credit Unions

Many financial institutions are offering special relief options if your pay has been disrupted. Here are some major ones to check:

🔹 Navy Federal Credit Union

  • What they offer: 0% APR Government Shutdown Assistance Loans (for qualifying members with direct deposit), loan extensions, financial counseling

  • Website: navyfederal.org

🔹 USAA

  • What they offer: Early access to pay, temporary relief on loans and credit cards, personalized support

  • Website: usaa.com/help

🔹 Other Banks & Credit Unions

Your local bank or credit union may also be offering:

  • Payment deferrals

  • Waived late fees

  • Low-interest emergency loans
    Call them directly and ask what options are available.

🌍 General Help Available to All

You don’t have to be military-connected to get assistance. Here are some resources for federal workers and the general public:

🔹 FEEA (Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund)

  • Who it’s for: Federal employees affected by pay disruptions

  • What they offer: Emergency grants and 0% interest loans

  • Website: feea.org/shutdown

🔹 United Way 211

  • What it offers: Local help for food, utilities, rent, and more

  • How to access: Call 211 or visit 211.org

🔹 State & Local Emergency Rental Assistance

✅ Final Take

Delays in income can throw everything off — but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re in the service, working for the government, or just in a tight spot, there are programs ready to help keep you and your household steady.

If you know someone who might need this info, pass it on.