Call your RIF coordinator or union representative today to learn where and how the retention register will be posted. Image: Gdisalvo/Shutterstock.com
By: Justin Schnitzer, Federal Employment AttorneyFor the first time ever, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has directed agencies to use a shutdown as justification for reductions-in-force (RIFs). Agencies can begin the 60-day RIF termination process while you are furloughed, and even if funding is restored next week, your agency could still proceed with your termination.
Understanding the Dual Threat
Federal employees now face two simultaneous crises: immediate loss of pay due to the shutdown, and potential permanent job loss through RIFs. If you’re furloughed, you’re not getting paid and have no access to your government phone, computer, or email. Yet during this same period, your agency can issue RIF notices that start your 60-day countdown to termination.
RIF notices will arrive by U.S. mail at your home address. This means you could receive a termination notice in your mailbox while you’re already dealing with the financial stress of missing paychecks, and you’ll have no access to your work files, performance records, or other documentation you might need to challenge it.
RIF Timeline at a Glance
- Retention register posted – names ranked by tenure, veterans’ preference, performance.
- 60-day separation notice – clock starts the day the letter is dated.
- MSPB appeal – file within 30 days after the effective separation date.
===> Call your RIF coordinator or union representative today to learn where and how the retention register will be posted
5 Actions to Take Immediately
1. Check your home mailbox daily. Agencies may send official RIF notices to your home address via U.S. mail, potentially by certified mail. You cannot rely on government email since you have no access during furlough. If your home address on file with your agency is incorrect or outdated, you could miss critical notices entirely. Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery so you can see scans of certified letters if you’re not home.
2. Update Your Contact Info—Now. Some agencies may attempt courtesy notifications via personal email or phone, but official notices will come by mail.
If you believe HR may have an incorrect address for you (for example, if you’ve relocated within the last few years), email them to update it. Most agencies keep at least one HR inbox monitored throughout a shutdown, but replies will probably be slow. Because you’ll be writing from a non-governmental address, identify yourself up front with your full name, agency, duty station, and series/grade so HR can match you to their records.
Below is a sample email you can use. Use your personal email to send it, request a read-receipt if your email client allows, and save a PDF copy of the sent message.
Subject: URGENT – Contact Information
Dear [Agency] Human Resources,
I am [Full Name], GS-[Grade] [Job Series/Title], duty station [City, State].
Please confirm that my current mailing address and personal contact information are correct in your system:
Mailing address: [Street, City, State, ZIP]
Personal email: [this address]
Mobile phone: [number]
If your records differ, kindly update them and acknowledge by reply email. This ensures I receive any time-sensitive notices during the shutdown.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Personal phone]
[Personal email]
3. Know Your Standing. RIFs are based on four retention factors: tenure of employment, veterans’ preference, length of service, and performance ratings. Check your SF-50 to confirm your tenure and latest performance review. If you’re a new hire, non-veteran, or have a lower performance rating, you may be at higher risk and should consult with an attorney now.
4. Beware the “Paused Deadline” Trap. While the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) has paused its deadlines during the shutdown, you still have only 45 days from a discriminatory event to contact an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) counselor. Waiting for the shutdown to end could leave you without recourse.
5. If You Receive a RIF Notice, Act Immediately. You have 60 days from getting a RIF notice to your termination date. Don’t wait to see if the shutdown ends or politicians change their minds. Your first and most important step is to contact a federal employment attorney immediately to understand your specific rights, appeal options (such as to the MSPB), and strategic next steps.
The Bottom Line
The combination of a shutdown and RIFs creates confusion right when you’re least able to access information. The safest approach is to assume the worst-case scenario: RIF notices might be coming, some deadlines are still running, and you need to prepare now.
If you receive a RIF notice or believe you’re at risk, consult with a federal employment attorney immediately. This is not a time to wait and see.
FAQs
Will I get severance pay? 52 weeks of federal severance pay is available if you have 12-plus months of continuous federal service, are involuntarily separated by RIF, and are not eligible to retire.
Can I draw unemployment while furloughed or RIF’d? You may draw state unemployment benefits during a furlough or after a RIF if your state approves the claim; apply immediately, follow its weekly certification rules, and tell the agency if you begin receiving payments, as some states offset back pay.
Does FEHB continue? Yes, FEHB continues for 31 days at no cost and by premium payment thereafter.
Attorney Justin Schnitzer (see, fedelaw.com) represents federal employees in cases of employment violations just as he would want to be represented, all with the aim of achieving decisive victories. His passion for employment law and the fight for fundamental fairness began when he served as a judicial intern for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is admitted to the State Bar of Maryland.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individualized legal advice.
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See also,
How to Handle Taxes Owed on TSP Roth Conversions? Use a Ladder
The Best Ages for Federal Employees to Retire
Best States to Retire for Federal Retirees: 2025
