Potential Federal Government Shutdown 2025 Questions and Answers

September 30, 2025

 

Does a federal government shutdown have an impact on my Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits?

• SNAP is funded by the federal government so you could be impacted by shutdown, depending on how long it lasts.
• You will be paid normally for October.
• We don’t know what could happen if the shutdown lasts past October.

 

Does this impact my Ohio Works First (OWF) benefits?

• You will receive your October benefits.
• We don’t know what could happen if the shutdown lasts past October.

 

 What if I apply in October?

• If you apply for SNAP or OWF in October, the county agency will process your application normally. If you are eligible, you will receive October benefits.

 

 What if I applied before October but my application is still pending?

• If you applied for SNAP or OWF benefits prior to October but your application is pending, the county agency will process your application normally. If you are eligible, you will receive benefits for the months your application was pending through October benefits.

 

 How can I check my case/benefits?

• You can log into the Ohio Benefits self-service portal at Account Log In (ohio.gov) or call 1-844-640-6446 to speak to someone about your case.  You can also call the number on the back of your EBT card or use the Connect EBT app to get balance information.

 

 Will my county JFS office remain open?

• Yes.