The length of a government shutdown is not fixed and depends on how long it takes for Congress and the President to reach a funding agreement. Historically, the longest U.S. government shutdown lasted 35 days, from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019. That shutdown was caused by disputes over funding for President Trump's border wall and was the longest in over four decades. Shutdowns can last anywhere from a day or two to several weeks, depending on the severity of the budget impasse and the political will to resolve it. The current shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, could last days or weeks, contingent on negotiations between Republican and Democratic leaders and the President. In summary, a government shutdown lasts until an agreement to fund the government is reached, with the historical maximum being 35 days so far.
