When Pay Stops: The 3-Call Plan for Veterans and Military Families

When paychecks pause, stress kicks in fast. Bills don’t stop, and the uncertainty of a government shutdown can feel like a punch in the gut. But there are real, simple steps you can take right now to protect your finances and your peace of mind. It starts with three quick calls. Fifteen minutes, three conversations, one less thing to worry about. 

1. Call your lender or landlord

Before your due date hits, pick up the phone. Tell them your pay is paused because of the federal shutdown, and you want to stay on top of your payments. Most lenders and landlords have short-term hardship options or payment plans available, but they usually require you to reach out first. 

If you’re active-duty military, mention it during the call. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) gives you important housing protections while you’re serving. For example, if you rent your home, a landlord generally can’t evict you or your dependents without a court order while you’re on active duty, as long as your rent is below a certain amount (which is adjusted each year). If you own your home, the SCRA also prevents lenders from foreclosing a mortgage you took out before entering active duty without going through the court system first. 

When you call, ask: 

• If they can offer a temporary deferment or payment plan while you wait for back pay
• Whether they have a hardship or military relief policy in place
• If they can waive late fees or protect your account from credit reporting until pay resumes 

Write down the name of the person you spoke with, the date, and what was agreed to. Ask for confirmation in writing. That one call can save you stress, help you avoid unnecessary fees, and make sure your rights as a service member are protected. 

2. Call your utility company

If your power, water, or gas bill is due, don’t wait. Call and ask if they have a hardship plan or payment arrangement you can set up today. Most utility companies have ways to help customers avoid disconnection, especially when income is disrupted. 

If you’re polite and proactive, you’ll often find they’re willing to work with you. Ask for confirmation in writing so you know your service is safe while you get through this rough patch. 

3. Call your benefits or relief resource

If you’re military or a Veteran, there are real organizations built for moments like this. These programs can help with essentials like rent, utilities, or food when your paycheck or benefits are delayed. 

• Village for Vets: Offers emergency financial assistance for veterans facing urgent needs like rent, utilities, or transportation.  
• PenFed Foundation’s Military Heroes Fund: Provides interest-free loans to veterans and military families struggling to cover essential expenses such as housing, food, or utilities.  
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Unmet Needs Program: Gives grants to help veterans and their families pay for necessities during financial hardship.  
• Army Emergency Relief (AER): Supports both active-duty and retired soldiers, as well as their families, with loans or grants to cover essential expenses. Details at armyemergencyrelief.org. All military branches have similar programs.  
• VA Financial Hardship Assistance: For veterans who need help paying VA medical bills or copays because of reduced income.  
• If you’re facing food insecurity, you can also call 211 to find local food banks and community resources near you. These calls connect you to real help, not just advice. 

If you need more help and support, take the Veteran Saves Pledge. You’ll receive trusted tools, resources, and guidance made for this exact moment.