US Government

All signs point to the government shutting down on Friday.  Basically, that means the government stops providing services that aren’t “essential” until they can reach a new budget deal.

But enough about that.  What you’re REALLY wondering is, “How will this affect ME?”  Here are six ways it could impact your life, based on what happened during the last shutdown in 1995.

#1.) Your tax refund could be delayed, especially if you apply by mailing in a return and not using e-file.  Also, the IRS would probably have to stop answering their hotline, so if you want to ask them tax questions next week you’re screwed.

#2.) A long delay for newly-eligible people applying to Medicare.

#3.) While the police are considered an ESSENTIAL service, some parts of the police process were cut down in 1995 . . . including case processing, testing, recruitment, hiring, and even work on some non-violent crime cases.

#4.) The National Parks will close immediately, as will museums that rely on federal funding.

#5.) Long delays if you need a passport or visa application.

#6.) NASA will have to stop preparing any space missions.