As you know, on October 1, the federal goverment "shut down." During the current lapse in funding, the vast majority of VA benefits and services will continue uninterrupted, but the government shutdown is not without consequences to VA. The following critical Veterans care and assistance programs will be impacted by the government shutdown:

• VA will not provide Veteran career counseling or transition assistance program activities.
• The GI Bill Hotline will be closed.
• VA regional benefits offices will be closed.
• VA will cease public affairs and outreach to Veterans.
• VA will not permanently place headstones or maintain the grounds at VA national cemeteries.
• VA will not process applications for pre-need burials.
• VA will not print new presidential memorial certificates.