The federal government is on the verge of a shutdown. Here's what could be affected

A United States government shutdown could be on the horizon, as Congress continues its stalemate as the deadline to pass a budget nears.

Democrats and Republicans in Congress have until midnight on Sept. 30 to strike a compromise , and neither side appears to be budging in a debate where partisan gridlock could lead to the closing of everything but essential government services. Funding expires on Oct. 1. After that, non-essential government employees will not be working and funding for some programs will come to a screeching halt.