Encouraging Flexibility by Financial Services Companies During the Federal Government Shutdown

On October 1, 2025, the federal government shut down after Congress failed to pass a government funding bill. During the shutdown, many federal employees are either furloughed or are deemed essential and working without pay. The financial impact of a prolonged shutdown will spread beyond just federal workers to include other Vermonters as well.

This Bulletin provides notice to entities regulated by the Department of Financial Regulation (DFR) that on October 24, 2025, DFR issued a press release urging individuals experiencing financial hardship due to the shutdown to proactively reach out to DFR-regulated entities, and to discuss their options to avoid penalties, fees, cancellations, or defaults.

DFR understands that regulated entities have procedures in place to work with customers experiencing financial hardship, and we expect these entities to communicate all options clearly to affected consumers that reach out for assistance.
Entities licensed or regulated by DFR with questions about this bulletin are encouraged to reach out to Aaron Ferenc, Deputy Commissioner for Banking, or Mary Block, Deputy Commissioner for Insurance. DFR will make every effort to provide appropriate assistance to regulated entities upon request.

Visit the Department website for information on filing a complaint with DFR.

This bulletin expresses the view of the Commissioner for the duration of the federal government shutdown unless modified by the Commissioner.