As the government shutdown stretches on, many military families across the U.S. are facing an uncertain and stressful wait — wondering if their next paycheck will arrive on time.

In San Diego, California, Naomi Pyle says her husband’s U.S. Navy paycheck, due this week, might not come. The couple, who have two young children, were already struggling financially before the shutdown began on October 1. “We were already living paycheck to paycheck, so this doesn’t help at all,” Pyle told CBS News.

Their household income is about $1,200 a week, which barely covers rent, utilities, and their children’s medical and therapy expenses. “It shouldn’t take everything out of us just to survive,” Pyle said.

President Donald Trump recently tried to ease worries, announcing that his administration had “identified funds” to ensure military paychecks go out as scheduled. The White House later clarified that Pentagon research and development funds could be temporarily used if the shutdown continues. Still, uncertainty remains for roughly 1.3 million active-duty service members.

According to Blue Star Families, one in six military households was already experiencing food insecurity before the shutdown. Many also have little in savings, leaving them vulnerable to even a single missed paycheck.

“There’s not only a financial impact but also a big psychological one,” said Kathy Roth-Douquet, the organization’s CEO. She explained that frequent relocations often limit job opportunities for military spouses, making families reliant on one income.

For some, like Misty Gilbert — whose husband serves in the Coast Guard — the stress is taking an emotional toll. “My check alone would barely cover the rent,” she said. “The holidays are coming up, and we don’t even know if we can afford to see family.”