Government shutdown: What will and won't happen during federal shutdown
WASHINGTON -- When the U.S. government shuts down, what does and does not happen? Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
Q: Does Congress still get paid during a shutdown?
A: Yes, but members of Congress can voluntarily give up their salary during a shutdown, and many have done that in the past.
Q: What happens to the military?
A: U.S. military operations will continue around the world.
Q: What about service members' paychecks?
A: Service members do not get paid during the shutdown, but will continue to work. Most civilian Department of Defense employees will be furloughed.
Q: What about passport services from the State Department?
A: State Department will continue to offer passport services, but will be closed for the holidays, reopening after Christmas on Wednesday.
Q: Will I get my mail?
A: You will still get your mail.
Q: What happens to the Supreme Court?
A: Supreme Court will continue to operate.
Q: Social Security?
A: Social Security Administration will continue to issue checks.
Q: Medicare and Medicaid?
A: Medicare and Medicaid will continue to be accepted, but customer service at these agencies may be impacted by furloughed employees.
Q: What about NASA?
A: Mission Control will still operate 24/7 to support the astronauts in space. However, support services like social media and NASA TV will be impacted.
Q: What if I want to buy a gun?
A: FBI says gun background checks will continue during the shutdown.
Q: Will National Parks be open?
A: National Parks should be open, but some areas may be limited because staff will be furloughed.
VIDEO: 5 things to know about a government shutdown
