Readers say they aren't impacted by the government shutdown. Here's why.

"The federal government shutdown has entered its sixth day, with no resolution in sight as lawmakers remain at a stalemate over key funding disputes. While Boston.com readers say they aren't directly impacted, the shutdown, which began on October 1, has already triggered widespread consequences for federal employees, essential services, and millions of Americans who rely on government programs. When we asked readers how they are or could be impacted, we heard from 136 readers."

"Nutrition programs such as WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) are particularly vulnerable, with funding expected to run out soon if the shutdown persists. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to continue through October, according to the state's Office of Health and Human Services department, but if the shutdown continues, the USDA could turn to its contingency reserve funding for payments. And homebuyers using government-backed loans may also face significant delays in mortgage processing."

A federal government shutdown began Oct. 1 after Congress failed to pass appropriations for fiscal year 2026, centered on disputes over health care funding and Affordable Care Act subsidies. Non-essential federal operations are paused, leaving hundreds of thousands of federal workers furloughed or working without pay. Critical services like Social Security, Medicare, and military operations continue, while many other functions have halted or face closure risk. Nutrition programs such as WIC are at risk of running out of funds; SNAP benefits are expected through October but may rely on USDA contingency reserves. Homebuyers using government-backed loans may face mortgage processing delays. A reader poll of 136 respondents found 68% report no impact and 17% report being impacted.

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