President Trump warned that Social Security and Medicare could disappear without Democratic support for funding, as the government shutdown continues.

Medicare is funded through mandatory spending, keeping it safe from government shutdowns. The Medicare enrollment process begins with the Social Security Administration. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicare are surprisingly interwoven.

While Social Security and Medicare benefits continue to be paid during the federal shutdown, and are in no danger of being cut or ended, people dealing with the programs could encounter some problems.

The U.S. government shut down on Wednesday after Congress failed to approve funding for federal agencies. Here's how that could affect Social Security recipients.

Go to www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare and select “Sign up for Medicare.” Or, call 800-633-4227. Although there’s no firm deadline, Medicare recommends applying three months before you turn 65. You will need your Social Security number, birth date and city where you were born, as well as start and end dates for your current health plan.

The federal government shutdown 2025 is now on Day 21, with no relief in sight. Here's what to know about your Social Security payments.