2026 PARTIAL SHUTDOWN FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Fund available in response to the partial federal government shutdown impacting the Department of Homeland Security, including TSA Agents, that began February 2026. Maryland residents who are current federal employees designated as “excepted” (also called “essential”), and are required to work without pay during a federal government shutdown, are not eligible for unemployment insurance, and may be eligible for the $700 Federal Shutdown Loan Program to help pay for expenses like food and rent. It is a no-interest loan to qualified applicants, the loan must be repaid 45 days after the shutdown ends. To apply, visit https://mdol.submittable.com/submit.