Government Shutdown Support for Federal Employees

How First Command Supports Service Members, Federal Employees, and Their Families

When the federal government shuts down, the effects extend far beyond Washington. Delayed paychecks can quickly create financial stress for federal employees, service members, and military families who depend on consistent income to meet everyday obligations.

At First Command, we believe those who serve our country should never have to face that uncertainty alone. That belief guides our response to government shutdowns as we help provide stability when it matters most, through proactive financial support.

Financial Support When Federal Pay Is Disrupted

First Command’s wholly owned banking subsidiary First Command Bank maintains a government shutdown assistance program designed to help eligible clients remain financially stable during periods of federal pay interruption. The program includes no-interest payroll advances and other forms of temporary financial support for qualifying clients with direct deposit arrangements.

Our commitment to clients during shutdowns spans more than a decade.

Since 2013, First Command has supported service members and their families through multiple government shutdowns. During the 2018–2019 shutdown, we provided $6.1 million in no-interest payroll advances to more than 2,500 federal employees and Coast Guard members. In addition, we extended a $5 million unsecured, no-interest loan to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, helping deliver relief to Coast Guard families experiencing financial strain.

Proven Support in Recent Shutdowns

During the 2025 and 2026 federal government shutdowns, First Command again stepped forward to support affected clients. Through a combination of direct financial assistance, strategic partnerships, and one‑on‑one financial coaching, we delivered more than $10 million in total support.

Our government shutdown pay-advance program provided no-interest advances and other assistance to more than 900 qualifying clients, helping them cover essential expenses while pay was delayed. These efforts reinforced our Mission of coaching those who serve in their pursuit of financial security — even during national disruption.

Trust Earned When It Matters Most

One of the most meaningful measures of client loyalty is trust.

Across multiple shutdowns, clients consistently share that simply knowing protection was available provided reassurance during uncertainty. Feedback from the spring 2026 shutdown highlighted appreciation for assistance that was without interest, was transparent, and focused solely on helping families remain financially steady until pay was restored.

First Command Bank client feedback included:

• “My command and I were confused and honestly relieved when we got paid… I know First Command has my back, and I truly appreciate everything you do.”
• “There’s still a lot of uncertainty about payroll during the shutdown and knowing this protection is in place has given me real peace of mind. Thank you for being there when it matters.”
• “Please thank whoever made this interest free, fee free assistance possible. It truly helps, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything you’ve done.”
• “Thank you again for your support during this whirlwind of uncertainty. You all have been absolute godsends, and we sincerely appreciate you being there for us when we needed it most.”
• “As always, First Command leads the way in taking care of its customers. Knowing you’re there if things change means everything. You’re truly appreciated.” These comments highlight the trust clients place in First Command during challenging times.”

These experiences reinforce an important truth: trust matters most when circumstances are beyond anyone’s control.

Looking Ahead

Government shutdowns are temporary, but their financial impact can feel long-lasting and deeply personal. First Command continues to evaluate and refine its shutdown assistance program so support can be deployed quickly and responsibly if future disruptions occur.

In the meantime, our focus remains unchanged: helping clients plan ahead, strengthen financial resilience, and navigate uncertainty with clarity and confidence.

Our Promise

At First Command, our promise is simple. We stand with our clients when it matters most.

Visit the Government Shutdown Assistance webpage or explore other financial guidance in our Coaching Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does First Command help clients during a government shutdown?

Through its wholly owned banking subsidiary First Command Bank, the company offers eligible clients no-interest payroll advances and other temporary financial support to help cover essential expenses when federal pay is delayed.

Are fees or interest charged for shutdown assistance?

No. First Command’s shutdown assistance offerings have historically provided no-interest, no-fee support to qualifying clients.

Who may qualify for government shutdown assistance?

Eligibility depends on specific program requirements, including direct deposit arrangements. Details are available on the Government Shutdown Assistance webpage.

Has First Command provided this support before?

Yes. First Command has supported clients through multiple shutdowns since 2013, including significant assistance during the 2018–2019, 2025, and 2026 shutdowns.

This page contains a testimonial from a client of First Command Financial Services, Inc. and/or it affiliated entities (together “First Command”). The testimonial was provided by the client on a strictly voluntary basis. First Command has not paid any direct or indirect compensation to the client for the testimonial and is unaware of any other material conflicts of interest. The testimonial may not be representative of the experience of other First Command clients and is no guarantee of future performance or success.