American Southwest Credit Union’s Guide to Government Shutdown Pay & Benefit Resources

Last updated: October 12, 2025

Latest Update: Military Pay Directive Issued October 11, 2025

On Saturday, October 11, the President directed the Department of Defense (DoD) to use all available funds to ensure that active-duty service members are paid on October 15, despite the ongoing federal government shutdown.

What this means for ASCU members:

• Active-duty military should expect normal deposit activity on or around October 15, barring last-minute changes from DoD or DFAS.
• Federal civilian employees and contractors may still experience delayed or missed paychecks.
• ASCU’s relief programs remain in effect for anyone experiencing income disruption, including fee waivers, skip-a-pay options, and our 0% APR Government Shutdown Loan.

ASCU continues to monitor DoD and federal agency communications and will update members promptly if circumstances change.

0% APR Government Shutdown Loan

American Southwest Credit Union is here to help eligible members bridge income gaps during the shutdown.

Eligibility

You may qualify if:

• You are a federal government employee or civilian contractor whose pay is delayed due to the shutdown.
• Your direct deposit was processed into an active ASCU account immediately before the shutdown.

Note: Active-duty military expected to receive normal pay on Oct. 15 may not need this assistance for that pay period. Civilian employees and contractors remain eligible if pay is delayed.

How to Apply

1. Call 800-752-6394 to request a one-time loan.
2. Apply early – at least one business day before your scheduled pay date.
3. Funds disburse only if the government fails to issue your regular pay on schedule.

Repayment: When federal pay resumes, ASCU will automatically deduct the repayment amount from your next deposit or after 60 days—whichever comes first.

Impact on Military & Veterans in Southern Arizona

Active-Duty Service Members

• Pay status: The DoD directive aims to ensure pay on Oct. 15.
• On-base services: Remain operational unless otherwise announced by local commands.
• Credit union support: ASCU’s shutdown loan and fee-relief programs remain available if any delay occurs.

Veterans’ Benefits (VA)

• Healthcare, benefits processing, and cemetery services will continue as usual, protected by advance funding.
• Career and transition programs, call centers, and regional offices may be temporarily closed or delayed.
• Veterans in need of immediate help can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 (Press 1).

Social Security, Medicare & Medicaid

All three programs continue operations and benefits will still be issued. However, new or replacement Medicare cards may be delayed, and some verification services could experience slowdowns.

Children’s & Family Programs

• CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program): Payments expected to continue.
• SNAP / Arizona Nutrition Assistance: October benefits are expected to issue as usual.
• WIC: No immediate impact anticipated; stay in contact with local providers.

Local food banks remain key community partners across Graham, Cochise, and Pima Counties.

Housing & Utility Assistance in Your Area

Members in Safford, Benson, Green Valley, Sierra Vista, and Copper Basin can access localized help with rent, mortgage, or utilities.

Other Federal Programs

We Are Here for You

American Southwest Credit Union is federally insured and fully operational throughout the shutdown. Your deposits are safe and secure.

If you are affected by delayed pay or financial hardship, please reach out right away. Our team is standing by to help you navigate available options.

Government Shutdown Loan Specialist: 800-752-6394
Visit a Local ASCU Branch: ascu.org/locations