The Federal Shutdown Loan Program provides financial support for federal workers who reside in Maryland and who are required to continue working during a government shutdown but are not receiving a paycheck during that time. These workers are designated as “excepted” workers. They are also called “essential” workers. The assistance–a no-interest loan of $700–is offered by the Maryland Department of Labor because “excepted” workers are not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits due to their work status. The loans help workers meet expenses like rent and groceries. After the shutdown ends and workers receive their back pay, the loans must be repaid.
The loan application portal is scheduled to open on Monday, October 6. If the shutdown is shorter than two weeks, no loans will be issued. If the shutdown lasts longer than two weeks, loan payments may be mailed as soon as October 16.