Support for Federal Workers

To Our Federal Workers and Community Members,

We want you to know that you are in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time. As our nation faces this government shutdown, we recognize the uncertainty and strain it brings to so many individuals and families. Below is a list of helpful resources we’ve gathered to offer support and hope. We are deeply grateful for the many organizations and caring individuals who have stepped forward to assist. May God bless them richly as they continue to be a blessing, and may He sustain and strengthen you with His peace and provision in the days ahead.

Supporting federal workers on the job

Current federal employees designated as “excepted” (also called “essential”)—who are required to work without pay throughout a federal government shutdown—may be eligible for the Federal Shutdown Loan Program. This program offers a zero-interest loan of $700 for Maryland residents who are excepted federal workers, to help them meet their expenses.

Supporting federal workers who are furloughed

Federal workers who are furloughed—not working and not being paid—are not eligible for the shutdown loan, but they may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.

Free transit for federal workers on MARC and commuter bus

The Maryland Transit Administration will provide free MARC and commuter bus service to federal workers during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Any individual with a federal ID badge can ride for free by showing their badge to the operator.

Supporting federal workers who lose their jobs

For federal workers who lost their jobs following the federal transition or who lose their jobs during the shutdown, career transition assistance is available through our 33 American Job Centers and specialized Professional Outplacement Assistance Center. They can also apply for unemployment insurance benefits. Additionally, they may be eligible for a $700 no-interest loan through the Federal Worker Emergency Loan Program, which supports former federal workers who live in Maryland, were subject to a mass layoff, and are experiencing financial hardship.

Supporting your mental wellness

MyMDCARES is here to help no matter what’s going on in your life. You and your dependents can speak with a licensed counselor or a coach through the MyMDCARES program, administered by BHS, at no cost by calling 844-405-8200. In addition, the MyMDCARES portal offers unlimited access to thousands of tools, resources and trainings on a variety of wellbeing and skill-building topics. To access the portal, visit portal.bhsonline.com and enter MYMDCARES as the organization ID.

Dedicated resource pages

Please continue to share our dedicated page for federal worker support, as well as the Maryland.gov resource page, with anyone you think might benefit from these resources. They provide information that may be helpful for current and former federal workers as well as federal contractors.