GUARD Act

The GUARD Act (HR 5893) ensures uninterrupted Social Security Administration (SSA) operations during a government shutdown in fiscal year 2026. It appropriates necessary funds to cover SSA administrative expenses if Congress fails to pass full-year funding before the fiscal year begins. This guarantees the SSA continues processing retiree payments and responding to congressional inquiries without interruption. The bill directly affects SSA operations and retirees who rely on timely benefit disbursements. It does not change benefit amounts or eligibility but secures funding continuity for administrative functions.