In the event of another government shutdown, urgent questions about veterans' benefits will likely resurface, chief among them: Will support continue, and what services may be delayed?

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA / ACCESS Newswire / December 10, 2025 / In the event of another government shutdown, urgent questions about veterans' benefits will likely resurface, chief among them: Will support continue, and what services may be delayed?

Attorney Emily E. McLaughlin of Parks Zeigler, whose practice includes extensive work with veterans and military families, wants veterans to know this: your core benefits are protected, but navigating the system during a shutdown can still be confusing, frustrating, and slow.

Here's what to expect if another shutdown occurs, and how to stay prepared.

VA Benefits Will Continue Despite a Shutdown

While a government shutdown results from Congress failing to pass funding legislation, not all services stop. "The VA continues operating during every shutdown. Most of its staff are considered essential," McLaughlin explained. "VA hospitals stay open. Disability and pension checks still go out. Crisis services continue."

Thanks to advance appropriations, the VA receives its funding a year ahead of time, shielding it from the kind of disruption other federal agencies face. This budgeting model, rooted in laws going back to the Lincoln administration, helps ensure critical benefits like monthly compensation and health care remain intact.

Services That Will Continue and What Might Slow Down

During a shutdown, the following veteran services remain operational:

• VA hospitals, outpatient clinics, and Vet Centers

• Disability, pension, housing, and education benefits

• Suicide prevention and caregiver support programs

• The Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1)

• Burials at national cemeteries

However, some services may slow down or pause, including:

• Regional VA benefits offices (closed to the public)

• GI Bill Hotline and educational counselors

• Transition and career counseling

• Pre-need burial application processing

• Board of Veterans' Appeals decisions

"Medical providers remain in place, but some support staff may be furloughed," McLaughlin said. "That can lead to slower responses, especially for new claims or benefit appeals."

What About New Claims or Survivor Benefits?

Veterans filing first-time claims or survivors applying for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) can expect benefits to continue, but processing delays are likely. While nearly half of the Veterans Benefits Administration staff is classified as "excepted" and continues working during a shutdown, others may be furloughed, affecting service speed.

Importantly, survivor benefits are protected, including:

• The Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) through the Department of Defense

• DIC payments from the VA

Both programs are considered mandatory spending and do not require annual congressional approval.

How to Stay Informed and Protected

If another shutdown happens, veterans can take several proactive steps:

• Use VA online tools and chatbots for common questions

• Call the VA Benefits Hotline (1-800-827-1000) for updates

• Contact your local VA medical facility for care questions

• Work with a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for claims help

• Document any delays or issues to support your case later

Legal Support Can Make a Difference

For veterans navigating a new claim, a delay, or an appeal during a shutdown, working with an experienced veterans' disability attorney can help cut through the red tape.

"Our firm is deeply connected to the military community. Many of us have served and many more of us have family who've served," McLaughlin said. "We provide clarity and support during times of uncertainty so veterans can focus on what matters most-their health and families."

Parks Zeigler's veterans legal team takes a full-service approach to benefit claims and appeals, helping veterans and their families stay confident, even during federal disruptions.

Final Word for Veterans and Their Families

If another government shutdown occurs, your most important VA benefits will continue uninterrupted. However, expect delays in non-medical services and new application processing.

That's why preparation matters. Keeping documentation in order, filing early when possible, and knowing your legal rights can protect you from unnecessary delays-and help ensure you receive the support you've earned.

For real-time updates during a shutdown, visit the VA's contingency planning page at: department.va.gov/contingency-planning

Phone Number: 888-691-9319

SOURCE: Parks Zeigler, PLLC