This is when family and trusted friends come in to help out, financially and emotionally.  Other options are: low interest loans from banks during this shutdown, consider a loan on your 401K, there are opportunities in part-time work as well.  This government shutdown is a clear illustration of the need to have 3-6 months of income in emergency savings.  Where do you go from here? Work with a financial professional to get you financial plan on  track.