When a federal furlough strikes, it doesn’t just pause paychecks — it impacts thousands of families across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. If you’re a federal employee or contractor affected, there are resources, relief programs, and even local restaurant discounts to help you through this period.
Below you’ll find an updated guide by state — so you can quickly find what’s available where you live or work.
🇺🇸 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
💰 Financial & Employment Assistance
Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE):
If your last duty station was in D.C., you can apply through the D.C. Department of Employment Services (DOES). You’ll need your furlough notice or SF-50 to qualify.
🔗 does.dc.gov/page/resources-impacted-federal-workers
Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund (FEEA):
Offers interest-free hardship loans and grants for federal employees facing temporary financial strain.
🔗 feea.org/shutdown
🥫 Food & Utilities Support
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Capital Area Food Bank offers free groceries and pop-up food distributions to furloughed federal employees.
🔗 capitalareafoodbank.org -
Pepco and DC Water have historically paused late fees and shutoffs during shutdowns — contact them to confirm current policies.
🍔 Local Restaurant & Business Discounts
The D.C. business community always shows up with generous support:
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Founding Farmers – 10% off with federal ID
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Busboys and Poets – Free morning coffee for furloughed workers
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International Spy Museum – 50% off tickets
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See a live list of “shutdown specials” here: washington.org/dcisopen
🦀 MARYLAND
💰 Financial & Employment Assistance
Maryland Unemployment Insurance:
Furloughed workers can apply for benefits through the Maryland Department of Labor.
🔗 response.maryland.gov/federalpublicservants/shutdown
Emergency Loan Programs:
During previous shutdowns, Maryland’s Federal Employee Loan Program partnered with local banks and credit unions. Check your credit union or county for reactivated assistance programs.
🥫 Food, Bills & Family Support
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Maryland Food Bank partners with local pantries to support furloughed workers and contractors.
🔗 mdfoodbank.org -
BGE and WSSC Water typically offer deferred payments or temporary bill relief — contact them early to discuss options.
🍽️ Local Discounts
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Silver Diner – Complimentary coffee for federal employees
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Mission BBQ – Special discounts for government and military families
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Downtown Annapolis and Columbia Mall – rotating “Furlough Specials” throughout the region
🦅 VIRGINIA
💰 Financial & Employment Assistance
Virginia Employment Commission (VEC):
Federal employees whose last duty station was in Virginia can apply for UCFE benefits online.
🔗 vec.virginia.gov
Credit Union & Bank Programs:
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Navy Federal, PenFed, and Apple FCU typically offer low-interest emergency loans and deferred payment programs during furloughs.
🥫 Food & Utility Help
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Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC): Free food for furloughed workers and contractors.
🔗 afac.org -
Dominion Energy: Contact customer service for flexible billing and late-fee waivers during shutdown periods.
🍕 Restaurant Specials
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Ambar Clarendon – 20% off with federal ID
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Caboose Brewing Co. (Vienna & Fairfax) – Happy hour pricing all day for furloughed workers
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Good Eats Emporium (Sterling) – Free dessert with entrée for federal employees
💡 Quick Tips for Federal Workers
✅ Keep your furlough notice — required for unemployment and relief programs
✅ Apply early for unemployment; processing takes time
✅ Contact lenders and utilities about hardship programs
✅ Bring your federal ID when using restaurant or retail discounts
✅ Follow local social media groups for real-time updates and deals
