Federal Shutdown Loan Program

The Federal Shutdown Loan Program application portal is currently closed and not accepting new applications.

This program launched on October 6, 2025, in response to the federal government shutdown, to provide financial support to “excepted” (also called essential) federal employees who were required to work without pay during the shutdown. That shutdown has now concluded and we are no longer able to accept new applications for this program. However, MD Labor will continue to process all applications received prior to the end of the shutdown.

In the event of a future federal government shutdown, this program would relaunch, to provide $700 no-interest loans to excepted federal workers living in Maryland.

Information for borrowers: Loan repayment

All recipients of the Federal Shutdown Loan are required to repay the funds by January 26, 2026. MD Labor has provided repayment details to loan recipients via email, and staff are available to answer any questions.

Loan program guidelines, FAQs, and help

For more information, please also see our guidelines page and answers to frequently asked questions. If you need further assistance or have questions about your loan application or loan repayment, please contact the program support team via email at MDshutdownloan@submittable.com or by phone at 410-849-6424 (9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday).

Additional support resources

Additional resources and information for workers whose jobs have been affected by federal actions are available on our dedicated support page, which features details on unemployment insurance benefits and reemployment support.

Federal civilian employees who become unemployed due to no fault of their own can apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE). For information on eligibility, how to apply, and more, see our Maryland UCFE FAQ page.