Military paychecks arrive on time amid government shutdown but fix may be temporary

Emma Rose Brown, The Virginian-Pilot on Oct 15, 2025

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After two weeks of uncertainty, active duty military are reportedly receiving their Oct. 15 paychecks.

About 1.3 million service members and thousands of activated National Guard members and reservists are expected to receive their mid-month deposits by Wednesday. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that Coast Guard members, who fall under her department, will receive their regular paychecks as well.

The Pentagon tapped $6.5 billion in unspent research and development funds from the prior fiscal year to cover the bill. Since the government shut down Oct. 1, service members, who are deemed essential, have been working without guaranteed pay.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said Wednesday that the measure was “a temporary fix.” If the shutdown lasts through the end of October, military members may not see their next check.

Standalone bills to fund the military throughout the duration of the shutdown have been unsuccessful. Negotiations over a continuing resolution have largely stalled, leaving no end to the shutdown in sight.

Other essential federal workers, such as those for the Transportation Security Administration, continue to work without pay.

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