Federal Government Shutdown Updates

Local Impacts & What You Need to Know

This page provides updates regarding impacts/potential impacts of the Federal Government Shutdown on Forsyth County operations and services.  Please check back regularly as information will be posted as it is available. 

General Shutdown

Every year, Congress must pass legislation to fund government operations for the upcoming federal fiscal year, which begins on October 1. If a new bill or temporary measure to keep funding at the current level (known as a Continuing Resolution) isn’t enacted by the deadline, the government must shut down due to a lack of funding. Each federal agency has a plan for how to operate during a shutdown. Many agencies will stop or reduce services during the lapse in funding.

The most immediate impacts are on the SNAP and WIC programs.

As of October 28, we are operating under guidance that funding is not available to support November SNAP benefits, and those benefits will not be loaded to EBT cards. DSS will continue processing applications, and individuals are encouraged to submit all required information and attend scheduled interviews so there is no delay once funding is restored.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has notified local WIC offices that funding has been identified to support administrative and benefit costs through at least November 15. We are continuing to monitor the situation closely for any updates.

There has been no confirmed timeline for how long the shutdown will last. The duration depends on when a federal budget agreement is reached. Updates will be shared through official state and county channels as new information becomes available.

SNAP Benefits

SNAP benefits were issued for October 2025. We have been advised that November benefits will not be issued. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) stand ready to load benefits once funding is restored.

Yes. The Forsyth County DSS office is open and processing SNAP applications. Individuals are encouraged to apply to avoid delays once funding is restored.

To apply, someone in your household will submit an application and complete an interview with our team. You can also call the NC EBT call center at (886) 719-0141, Relay Services: 711, or 866-719-0141 for an interpreter. 

Other ways to apply:

  • Online: ePASS.nc.gov
  • By phone: Call your local Department of Social Services (DSS) 336-703-3800 
  • In person: Visit your county DSS office during regular business hours 

Yes. Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits already on your EBT card will remain available to use. Benefits do not expire, and your EBT card will continue to work as usual at all authorized stores for eligible food items.

There are three ways to check the balance on an EBT card. 

  • ebtEDGE mobile app (download from your phone's app store) 
  • ebtEDGE.com website
  • Call 1-888-622-7328  

Yes. It is important that you continue to submit all renewal paperwork and attend scheduled recertification interviews. This ensures your benefits can be issued without delay once funding is restored.

Yes. Your EBT card will continue to work as usual at all authorized stores. Any benefits already on your card remain available to purchase eligible food items.

The North Carolina Division of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) posts updates at NC DHHS: Food and Nutrition Services Food Stamps. This is a reliable source of information that is updated frequently.

WIC Benefits

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has notified WIC offices that funding for WIC is expected to be available at least through November 15. We are continuing to monitor for updates and will share information as it becomes available.

To check your WIC benefits, call 1-844-230-0813.

Once the WIC program is paused, which is anticipated to occur after November 15, you will no longer have access to unused benefits. We are continuing to monitor for updates and will share information as it becomes available.

Yes. WIC offices will remain open through November 15, or while funding is available. Forsyth County Public Health WIC offices are continuing to accept applications.

Individuals are encouraged to continue applying for benefits, completing renewals, and attending scheduled appointments as usual. Once funding for WIC is exhausted, administrative support will be required to cease.

For WIC assistance, call:
(336) 703-3336 (English)
(336) 703-3370 (Spanish)

Additional Assistance/Food and Nutrition Resources

Access the links below to find local food resources:

The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) helps low-income households pay for home energy costs. LIEAP begins operations in December to a priority population that includes people aged 60 or older, or people living with a disability and receiving Food and Nutrition Services. If you are part of this priority group and received a LIEAP payment last year, you will be automatically approved again this year. If the government shutdown continues, no additional funding will be available, and new applications will not be accepted. Only those who are pre-approved will receive assistance.  

  • LIEAP in NC: This program provides heating, crisis and weatherization assistance. LIEAP serves more than 126,000 households in North Carolina. 

Some federal offices are closed. Search - NC 211 or Dial “211” for statewide resource assistance.

Yes. Medicaid coverage will remain in place during the shutdown. Funding is expected to support program operations through December 31, 2025.

For assistance with Medicaid or to apply:

  • Online: ePASS.nc.gov
  • By phone: Call your local Department of Social Services (DSS) 336-703-3800 
  • In person: Visit your county DSS office during regular business hours

Media

Oct. 29, 2025
Forsyth County Government and community partners held a press conference regarding anticipated impacts of the federal government shutdown on supplemental nutrition assistance programs.

Oct. 24, 2025
A Federal Government Shutdown Update was provided at the October 23rd Board of County Commissioners meeting. You can view the presentation at the link below: