Confusion Surrounds Efforts to Pay DHS, TSA Workers During Shutdown

Paycheck uncertainty looms as Congress delays funding for Department of Homeland Security

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A photorealistic painting of a lone TSA security checkpoint booth, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows casting an ominous mood, conveying the sense of uncertainty and unease surrounding the government shutdown's impact on federal workers.The threat of missed paychecks for federal workers adds to the growing anxiety and disruption caused by the ongoing government shutdown.Atlanta Today

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned its employees that their next paycheck on Friday could be their last until Congress acts to end the partial government shutdown. However, it remains unclear if this warning applies to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers, who have already started receiving back pay. The mixed messaging has created growing anxiety and uncertainty among federal employees, especially TSA officers, as they struggle to make ends meet during the prolonged shutdown.

Why it matters

The TSA workforce has been a critical factor in the shutdown negotiations, as widespread call-outs by unpaid TSA workers led to massive airport delays and increased pressure on lawmakers to find a solution. The latest confusion over paychecks could further impact morale and staffing levels at TSA, potentially disrupting travel and security at airports nationwide.

The details

According to a memo sent to DHS employees, the department warned that Friday's paycheck could be the last until Congress restores funding for DHS. The memo stated that employees should not submit timecards for the next pay period, and any additional compensation owed would be paid once funding is restored. However, reports later emerged that the memo did not actually apply to TSA workers, who were still expected to receive their scheduled paychecks. This mixed messaging has contributed to growing uncertainty and anxiety among federal employees, especially TSA officers, who are unsure if they can count on their next paycheck.

  • On March 27, President Trump signed an executive order directing DHS to find funds to compensate TSA workers for their unpaid work since the shutdown began on February 14.
  • A week later, the president signed a similar order for all DHS employees required to work without pay during the shutdown, including those in the U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, and CISA.
  • On April 5, the national call-out rate among TSA workers fell to 7.98%, down from a peak of 12.35% on March 27.

The players

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal department responsible for securing the United States from terrorism and managing the country's borders, immigration, and disaster response.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

A federal agency under DHS that is responsible for security screening at U.S. airports.

American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE)

A labor union that represents most TSA workers.

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What’s next

Congress is expected to return from its two-week Easter recess next week, where the issue of funding for DHS and resolving the partial government shutdown will likely be a top priority.

The takeaway

The ongoing confusion and uncertainty over federal worker paychecks during the partial government shutdown highlights the real-world impacts on employees and the potential for further disruptions, especially at critical agencies like the TSA. Resolving this issue will require swift action from Congress to restore funding and provide clarity for affected workers.