HOUSTON – Good news - the shutdown won’t stop benefit payments, but new Social Security claims and paperwork may be delayed.
Attorney Marc Whitehead recently stopped by Houston Life to discuss how the shutdown affects your benefits.
Regular benefit payments continue
The good news for Houston residents: Social Security benefit payments are expected to continue during the current federal shutdown. Essential staff at the Social Security Administration (SSA) remain on duty to make sure monthly payments go out and that existing benefit cases keep moving forward. Hearing offices remain open, appeals are still received and date‑stamped, and basic intake and filing continue as usual.
New claims may face delays
While the SSA will accept new claims and appeals, specialized personnel who perform in‑depth reviews — for example, checking work credits, medical records and SSA case files — may be deemed nonessential and therefore not available. That means initial claim processing, corrections to earnings records and overpayment reviews could be delayed. In short: you can file now, but approvals and full processing may take longer.
File on time and hold your place in line
The SSA operates on a “place in line” system. Even during a slowdown, it’s important to submit claims and appeals promptly so your file is date‑stamped and queued. Deadlines for appeals continue to run during a shutdown, so do not assume the clock stops — missing a deadline can force you to restart the process. If you receive a denial, file your appeal within the required period.
Final tip: keep moving forward
Treat the SSA as if it’s fully staffed: file claims, gather records and keep on top of deadlines. Contact your elected officials if you want to urge quicker action, and reach out for help if you need it.
For questions specific to your situation, call Attorney Marc Whitehead at 713‑897‑8036 or visit www.DisabilityDenials.com.
Marc is Houston’s Board‑Certified Disability Attorney and has represented local residents since 1992.