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Tamila McDonald

What Are the Uber Car Requirements in Florida?

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Uber is a popular option for people who want to make extra money on their terms. However, if you are considering becoming an Uber driver in Florida for the first time, having a car that meets the requirements is essential. Otherwise, you will not qualify to use the platform to find passengers.

What Are the Uber Car Requirements in Florida?

In most cases, people who are getting ready to start with Uber will be joining the UberX program. This is the basic Uber service.

Florida drivers interested in driving for UberX need a qualifying vehicle. Here are the Uber car requirements in Florida:

  • 15-year-old vehicle or newer
  • At least four independently opening doors (not including hatchback doors or trunks)
  • Seating for at least four passengers (5 total factory-installed seats with seat belts)
  • Working windows
  • Working air conditioning
  • Good condition with no cosmetic damage
  • No commercial branding

All cities in Florida follow these requirements, including:

  • Central Atlantic Coast Cities
  • Florida Keys
  • Gainesville
  • Jacksonville
  • Miami & South Florida
  • Orlando
  • Panama City
  • Pensacola
  • Tampa Bay
  • Tallahassee

Plus, your vehicle must continue to meet those standards if you are going to drive for Uber, including the age requirements. This means, if you have a 2004 vehicle, you could potentially use it to drive for Uber in Florida during 2019. However, in 2020, your car might not qualify any more, so you would become ineligible unless you replaced your vehicle with something newer that also meets the other requirements.

What Are the Uber Driver Requirements in Florida?

If you want to drive for Uber in Florida, you need more than just a suitable vehicle. You will also need to meet a few other standards.

First, you will need a valid US driver’s license. It has to be a full-fledged license and not a learner’s permit or something similar.

Second, you have to be the minimum age to drive in your city unrestricted and have at least one year of driving experience if you are 23 or older. Drivers under the age of 23 need at least three years of driving experience.

Third, you need to be able to provide specific documentation. This includes your driver’s license, proof of residency, proof of insurance for your vehicle, and a driver photo.

Finally, all drivers need to pass a screening process. Uber will run your driving record and check your criminal history. You can be disqualified if your background check reveals issues that do not align with Uber’s standards.

On the driving record sign, this usually means you cannot have any major moving violations, like reckless driving or a DUI, within the past seven years. Additionally, you may be limited to only three minor moving violations during the past three years. This usually includes offenses like speeding or failure to obey certain traffic laws. Having recent accidents also hurts your chances of becoming approved as an Uber driver.

For the criminal history, anyone one with a felony, sexual offense, or violent crime in the last seven years is not eligible to drive for Uber. Individuals who are required to register as a sexual offender are also disqualified automatically.

Other Requirements to Drive for Uber

Yes, one of the biggest additional requirements is having a smartphone that can run the Uber app. Without that, you cannot connect to the system to find riders.

Additionally, if you want to drive for specific Uber services, like UberXL, UberSELECT, UberBLACK, UberSUV, or UberLUX, then your vehicle needs to meet the standards for those options as well.

Here is an overview of the additional vehicle requirements for Uber services aside from the basic UberX:

  • UberXL – vehicle must be able to carry at least 6 passengers
  • UberSELECT – vehicle must be an entry-level luxury sedan and have a leather or synthetic leather interior
  • UberBLACK – vehicle must be a higher end sedan and have a black leather or synthetic leather interior and black exterior. The driver must maintain commercial insurance
  • UberSUV – vehicle must be a full-size SUV with black exterior and black leather or synthetic leather interior and seating for at least six passengers
  • UberLUX – must be a high-quality luxury brand vehicle with a leather or synthetic leather interior. The driver must maintain commercial insurance and have a rating of 4.7 or higher.

Model year, condition, and other requirements for the Uber services above may also be more stringent than for the regular UberX service, so it is important to keep that in mind if you are hoping to join those programs.

Uber will inspect the details of your vehicle to determine which (if any) programs you are eligible to join. Then, once you are approved for at least the basic UberX option, you can start earning money as an Uber driver.

Do you drive for Uber in Florida? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.

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Ordering Birth Certificate in the U.S.A.

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As a U.S. citizen, the most important document that you can have in your arsenal when navigating a government organization is a valid birth certificate. This document certifies that you are indeed a citizen of the country and are thus liable to acquire any and every amenity that your being so grants. A valid birth certificate has a person’s name on it, along with his/her parents’ names, his/her date of birth, among various other details. A birth certificate provides a legal identity to a citizen.

In the U.S., if you happen to lose your document it is quite easy to order a birth certificate online without any hassle. All you have to do is provide concrete proof that you are who you say you are, or, if you want to order the birth certificate of another person, deliver proof that you are indeed an authorized individual who is legally allowed to have said record.

There are certain details that you need to know before ordering a birth certificate, to make the process easier. For one, it is important that you can provide the place of birth, for purposes of distinction, since many people might have the same name and same date of birth. Some states might even ask for the county where the person was born. If it so happens that you cannot remember where the birth did occur, some states ask for the hospital of birth to narrow it down.

To make the process of obtaining a birth certificate as stress-free as possible, it is imperative that you familiarize yourself with the requirements and fees ordering such a document warrant. As it happens, different states have different conditions that need to be fulfilled. In addition, different states also offer you options depending upon what you need the certificate for. For example, in Alaska, you have the option of choosing between a regular certificate or getting one that has been embellished with the work of a local artist. On the other hand, Alabama offered you a choice between a certified and an uncertified document. Fees for the same document differ in different states.

It is very important that you are able to prove you are indeed an authorized and eligible individual to get a birth document before you order one. According to most state laws, obtaining a certified copy of a birth certificate is usually restricted to the person in whose name the document was originally drawn, his/her parents or legal guardian, his/her husband or wife, his/her son or daughter, a legal representative working under a court order, and representatives of law enforcement, amongst others. Some states have an ‘informational’ copy of a birth certificate which usually has lesser information and is available to a wider variety of people.

Once you have confirmed all this information, all you have to do is fill an online form, pay the requisite fees, and then wait for your document to arrive. The wait might range from that of a few weeks to a couple of months.

What Do I Need to Include in My Bug Out Bag?

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What Do I Need to Include in My Bug Out Bag

If disaster struck today, would you be ready? Sadly, if you said “yes,” you are in the minority. Being prepared for a variety of emergencies requires careful planning, especially when you consider how many are possible. Anything from a hurricane to a solar superstorm could alter the course of life as you know it, particularly if you do not have accessible and practical supplies to assist with basic survival. Luckily, by putting together a great bug out bag, you can make sure you have what you need at the ready.

What is a Bug Out Bag?

To put it simply, a bug out bag is a backpack or other highly carriable bag that holds various supplies that can assist you during an emergency. This portable kit contains items that support basic survival, typically for at least 72 hours, and make evacuating from a disaster easier (or even possible).

In most cases, a backpacking rig is best. They usually store a lot of items, have a variety of organizational options (like multiple pockets or compartments, strapping, and similar design elements), and are meant for long-term wear and carrying.

What Do I Need to Include in My Bug Out Bag?

Exactly what you need to put in your bug out bag may vary a bit based on your location. For example, if you are in the southwest and it is summer time, hydration may be a larger concern because of the excessive heat and lack of water in some areas. In comparison, someone in the northern portion of the Midwest during the winter might have access to water but needs to focus on supplies to stay warm.

However, there are certain basics everyone should cover.

First, water is a necessity. Everyone needs fluids to stay hydrated, so consider adding the following items to your bug out bag:

  • 3 quarts of water per person
  • A water bottle or camelback
  • Water treatment options (LifeStraw, water treatment tablets, etc.)

Next, basic shelter and ways to preserve warmth are important additions. Here is what you need to carry:

  • Tent or tarp
  • Sleeping bag or bivvy bag
  • Emergency blanket

Food

Then, it’s time to address another basic human need: food. While you can typically go up to three weeks without eating, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t carry food. Without nourishment, you’ll lack energy and focus. Plus, you’ll get grumpy and frustrated.

Ideally, you want any food to be high-protein and high-fat, as they provide you with long-lasting energy. Additionally, non-perishable items are best, allowing you to pack your backpack in advance without having to worry about spoilage too often. Here are some easy options:

  • Protein bars
  • Beef or turkey jerky
  • Tuna pouches
  • Peanut butter

Fire Starters

Supplies for starting a fire are similarly a necessity. Flames don’t just keep you warm; they also scare animals away, can work as a signal, and can help with water purification and first aid.

Have a few fire starter options available instead of just one, ensuring you have a backup if one fails. Here are a few worth adding to your bug out bag:

  • Bic lighter
  • Stormproof matches
  • Ferro rods

Hygiene items are also smart additions. Consider carrying the following:

  • Baby wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste or tooth powder
  • Travel-sized bar of soap
  • Antiperspirant
  • Feminine hygiene supplies

First Aid Supplies

You also want to put some first aid supplies in your bug out bag, especially if you may be traveling through rough terrain. Otherwise, even a small injury could hinder your ability to reach safety or could become infected, potentially putting someone’s life in danger.

Here are some first aid kit basics to include:

  • Anti-bacterial wipes
  • Painkillers
  • Medical gloves
  • Gauze pads
  • Bandages and Band-Aids
  • Burn gel
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Instrument kit

Tools and Equipment

Bring along any prescription drugs you or your traveling companions may need is also a must. You may not have access to a pharmacy or emergency medical services for a while, so don’t leave home without critical medications.

You also need a few simple tools and equipment pieces. Make sure to pack:

  • Compass
  • Multitool (like a Leatherman)
  • Hiking GPS
  • Backup battery-based chargers
  • Local map
  • Paracord
  • Mini shovel
  • Duct tape
  • Small ax or hatchet
  • Flashlights
  • Breathing mask

Change of Clothes

Adding one change of clothing to your bug out bag is smart. That way, if what you are wearing gets wet, you can change, decreasing the odds of hypothermia. Wool clothing is a great option both for warmth and because it dries quickly. Other outdoor clothing can offer similar benefits, as well as heavy cotton items.

Just make sure to think “layers,” as you may want to be able to add or remove items depending on the temperature or weather.

The only exception tends to be socks. Consider packing a few pairs of tough, thick socks so you can keep your feet dry at all times.

Carry Your Critical Documents

Lastly, make sure to carry any critical documents that you may need during or after an emergency. ID cards, passports, titles, contracts, and similar paperwork may be wise to include. Additionally, writing down contact information for friends and family members is smart, especially since your smartphone may die along the way.

In some cases, you may want to add self-defense items. Anything from bear spray to a firearm can be suitable options, depending on what is legal in your area and what you are comfortable using.

Do you have a bug out bag? Tell us what you keep in yours in the comments below.

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Am I Eligible for the Uber Sign Up Bonus?

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Am I Eligible for the Uber Sign Up Bonus

Today, Uber does not need to entice people to drive for them as they did in the beginning. As a result, they do not offer the same sign-up bonuses as they once did. However, that does not mean you can’t get some extra cash in your pocket by taking the proper steps; namely, by taking advantage of the referral program’s sign-up guarantee.

How to Become Eligible for the Uber Sign-Up Bonus

Many companies compensate people for referring their friends, and Uber is no different. Drivers can share their referral codes with friends, family, or even strangers, giving both themselves and the new driver a chance to earn some extra money.

One way to become eligible for the Uber sign-up bonus is to use a referral code. This means you would need to connect with someone who already drives for the company or conduct a quick internet search to find a code.

Luckily, whose code you use doesn’t matter. They do not have to be in your city, and you do not have to know them personally. The important part is to find a code. Once you have a referral code, you need to complete the Uber driver application. Make sure to input the referral code in the right blank.

It is important to note that, if you use a referral code, that person earns a bonus off of your driving. Since that is the case, you may want to track down one from a person you like, as you are essentially putting free money in their pocket.

However, a referral code is not your only option. If you want to sign up without a code and get the guaranteed earnings offer, you can. Just head over to the Uber New Driver Guarantees Page, and you can get started.

How the Uber Sign-Up Bonus Works

The Uber sign-up guarantee isn’t a traditional bonus. They do not just hand over a specific amount of cash to thank you for joining as a driver. Instead, you gain access to a program that can make your start with Uber more lucrative.

As you sign up, you will see an offer. Usually, it says you can earn X amount of money for completing Y number of trips in Z days.

For example, yours might say, “Earn $300 guaranteed for completing your first 30 trips,” followed by, “Trips must be completed within 90 days of sign up.”

Exactly what your offer looks like may depend on a number of factors, though your location is the biggest one. The sign-on guarantees vary by city, so new drivers in Seattle will see something different than a new driver in Miami.

Now, what the verbiage means is universal. You are not getting an “extra” amount of money (like the $300 mentioned above). Instead, the total amount you make from your first trips will be at least that amount.

Continuing with the example above, that $300 would mean that you would earn at least $10 for each of your first 30 trips ($300 / 30 trips = $10 per trip) as long as you finish them all in 90 days. If you do not finish them in 90 days, the $10 per trip guarantee only applies to those you drive during those 90 days.

Essentially, no matter how much the trip would normally make you, you will earn at least $10.

Maximize Your Uber Sign-Up Guarantee

If you are eligible for a sign-up guarantee, then you want to make the most of it. Just how do you do that? By driving the cheapest (usually, the shortest) rides possible, that’s how.

The goal is to find trips where you would earn less than $10, allowing you to bank more for less work. For example, with the guarantee in place, a $5.60 trip lands you $10, so you get an extra $4.40 thanks to the guarantee. In contrast, a $10.50 trip is already over $10, so you lose out on the benefit of the guarantee for that trip (but it still counts as one of your first trips, meaning it is a missed opportunity).

Now, Uber drivers do not get full control over the rides they land. Once you are signed on and ready to drive, you often have to take what is available.

However, by adjusting when and where you drive, you can increase your odds of getting shorter trips. For example, avoiding early mornings (when people are commuting to work or more commonly heading to the airport), you might avoid long trips.

Instead, by driving later at night, when the bar scene is hopping, you might find people moving between bars or around their own neighborhood, which are typically shorter jaunts. Midday can also work, especially if you connect with people heading to lunch near their workplaces or running errands close to home.

Along the way, you also want to keep your expenses as low as possible. The cost of gas and impact of mileage on your vehicle cut into your profits, so you do not want to drive around a lot between rides looking for short ones or drive a long way to get to a place where there are short rides. If you did, you would burn through fuel and increase wear and tear during times you were not making anything, which is not cost-effective.

Find Out About Your City’s Sign-Up Guarantee

The Uber sign-up guarantee for any city can change frequently. If you want to find out about the current offer, you will need to head over to Uber’s site and see what is available.

Luckily, you can check out the guarantee in advance by heading to the guarantee page and inputting your city. You can also review the terms that go along with the guarantee, giving you a chance to plan ahead to make sure you can make the most of the opportunity.

What About Uber Eats?

If you prefer working for Uber’s food delivery service, Uber Eats and still hope to get a sign on bonus, well you’re in luck.  You can use an invite (referral code) from another driver to get signed up and receive a bonus. Just remember, you must complete a certain number of rides in order to receive the bonus. Read the invite information prior to signing up and happy driving!

Do you drive for Uber? Did you get a sign-up bonus? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.

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What Are the Car Requirements for Lyft Plus?

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Lyft Plus car requirements

Lyft has multiple tiers for the company’s rideshare service. Along with basic Lyft, there is Lyft XL (formerly Lyft Plus), Lyft Lux, and Lyft Lux Black. By having a vehicle that qualifies for one of the categories beyond the basic Lyft, drivers can earn more for each trip. However, not every vehicle is eligible. Here is what you need to know about Lyft XL.

Car Requirements for Lyft Plus / Lyft XL

The vehicle requirements for Lyft XL are pretty simple. First, your vehicle must have at least four doors, not including jump doors. Second, you need to have at least six passenger seats available – a minimum of seven total, as you would need one for a driver. Usually, this means a car will not qualify. Instead, you would need to drive a minivan, SUV, or something similar.

Additionally, there are vehicle age requirements, though they vary by location. Here is an overview of the vehicle age requirements, based on the state:

  • Alabama – 2004 or newer
  • Alaska – 2007 or newer
  • Arizona – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Eastern Arizona, Lake Havasu City/Kingman, Northern Arizona, Yuma)
  • Arkansas – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Fayetteville)
  • California 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Bakersfield, Eastern Sierras, Fresno, Inland Empire/San Bernardino, Lake Tahoe, Los Angeles, Modesto, Monterey, Napa & Sonoma, Orange County, Sacramento, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Stockton, Ventura; 2004 or newer for San Francisco, Silicon Valley/San Jose)
  • Colorado – 2004 or newer
  • Connecticut – 2007 or newer
  • Delaware – 2003 or newer
  • Florida – 2003 or newer (2007 or newer for Bradenton, Jacksonville, Miami/South FL, Naples, Orlando, Port of Charlotte, Sarasota, Tampa; 2004 or newer for Daytona Beach, Florida Keys, Fort Myers, Lakeland, Ocala, Port St. Lucie)
  • Georgia – 2007 or newer
  • Hawaii – 2003 or newer
  • Idaho – 2005 or newer for Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls; 2004 or newer for Boise
  • Illinois – 2003 or newer (2004 or newer for Chicago; 2009 or newer for Bloomington; 2005 or newer for Decatur, Kankakee)
  • Indiana – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Gary, Muncie, Terre Haute)
  • Iowa – 2003 or newer
  • Kansas – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Manhattan, Topeka, Western Kansas)
  • Kentucky – 2003 or newer
  • Louisiana – 2003 or newer (2011 or newer for New Orleans; 2006 or newer for Baton Rouge; 2005 or newer for Monroe)
  • Maine – 2004 or newer
  • Maryland – 2007 or newer
  • Massachusetts – 2003 or newer (2004 or newer for Cape Cod, Springfield, Worcester)
  • Michigan – 2006 or newer
  • Minnesota – 2003 or newer (2004 or newer for Minneapolis/St. Paul, though 2008 or older vehicles much has less than 150,000 miles on them; 2009 or newer for Duluth)
  • Mississippi – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Gulfport-Biloxi)
  • Missouri – 2003 or newer (2007 or newer for St. Louis; 2005 or newer for Springfield)
  • Montana – 2004 or newer
  • Nebraska – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Western Nebraska)
  • Nevada – 2003 or newer (2009 or newer for Las Vegas Area)
  • New Hampshire – 2003 or newer
  • New Jersey – 2004 or newer
  • New Mexico – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Las Cruces, Roswell, Taos)
  • New York – 2004 or newer (All NYC vehicles requirements are governed by the city’s Taxi and Limousine Commission)
  • North Carolina – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Outer Banks)
  • North Dakota – 2003 or newer
  • Ohio – 2003 or newer
  • Oklahoma – 2003 or newer (2009 or newer for Ardmore, Woodward)
  • Oregon – 2004 or newer (2009 or newer for Portland; 2003 or newer for Medford)
  • Pennsylvania – 2004 or newer, and fewer than 350,000 miles
  • Rhode Island – 2004 or newer
  • South Carolina – 2003 or newer
  • South Dakota – 2009 or newer
  • Tennessee – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Cookeville, Jackson, Johnson City)
  • Texas – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Abilene, Amarillo, Tyler, Victoria)
  • Utah – 2005 or newer
  • Vermont – 2009 or newer
  • Virginia – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Fredericksburg)
  • Washington – 2004 or newer (2009 or newer for King County/Seattle/Tacoma, Olympia)
  • Washington DC – 2009 or newer
  • West Virginia – 2003 or newer (2005 or newer for Martinsburg)
  • Wisconsin – 2003 or newer (2004 or newer for Green Bay; 2005 or newer for Janesville, Madison, Milwaukee, Sheboygan-Fond du Lac Area)
  • Wyoming – 2005 or newer

It’s important to note that these requirements may change. States may alter the oldest model year that is acceptable, potentially annually, to keep the maximum age in line with their standards.

Additionally, the Lyft Lux Black XL program has additional requirements. Namely, that the vehicle needs to be a black SUV and ultra-high-end, including leather or leather-like seats. Some examples of qualifying Lyft Lux Black XL vehicles are:

  • BMW X5
  • Cadillac Escalade
  • Lincoln Navigator

Becoming a Lyft XL Driver

Signing up as a Lyft XL driver is incredibly simple. If your vehicle meets the requirements, Lyft opts you into the program automatically. You do not have to take any additional steps if the qualifying vehicle is on the platform.

However, if you were driving for Lyft with a smaller car before, you will need to adjust your profile to qualify for Lyft XL. The company only allows one vehicle to be approved on an account, so you will need to add details about your larger one so you can make the switch.

To make the change, head over to your Driver Dashboard in the Vehicle section of the app. There, you can add details and upload documentation (inspection, insurance, and possibly registration information) for your bigger vehicle. Typically, it takes no more than 24 hours for the new vehicle to be approved by Lyft, suggesting what you submitted is complete and meets the company’s requirements.

If you want to be a Lyft Lux Black XL driver, you also have to maintain a driver rating of 4.7 or higher. New drivers have to build that rating through other programs before being eligible.

Do you drive or use Lyft Plus? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.

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5 Ways the Federal Government Shutdown Has Affected the Economy

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the federal government shutdown

One estimate by Standard & Poor’s, a financial rating agency, showed that the cost of the latest government shutdown to the economy was $6 billion. Everything from lost productivity – based on federal worker furloughs – to slowed purchasing activity at various businesses plays a role in the final price tag. If you are wondering just how much the federal government shutdown has affected the economy, here are five.

1. Slowed GDP Growth

Although no one knows the exact impact of the shutdown, there was damage to the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Quarterly economic growth was likely cut by about 0.13 percent points for each week it carried on. This led to about a 0.65 percent estimated decline since the shutdown lasted nearly five weeks. An estimate also suggested that around 380,000 workers were not producing services that they typically would during the shutdown period.

It is true that GDP growth losses may recover by the second quarter. However, since the government may shut down again if a deal isn’t reached by mid-February, there could be more damage.

2. Household Spending

During the shutdown, about 800,000 federal workers weren’t receiving paychecks. Additionally, individuals who contract with the government but are not official employees may have also seen their wages paused.

As a result, spending changed dramatically for many households. In some cases, people spent less on groceries. They also spent less on gas for their vehicles, and other common categories to increase their odds of remaining solvent during the shutdown. Others tried to negotiate with creditors to get some relief. Unfortunately, many may have to face interest or fees because of non-payment, also impacting their budgets.

When people spend less, the economy feels it. Businesses bring in less money.  Less revenue impacts their profits and ability to pay their bills. Then, it just keeps trickling down. From one company and household to the next.

3. Delayed IPOs

A few high-profile IPOs were planned for the beginning of 2019, including Pinterest, Lyft, and Uber. However, when the government shutdown, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was only handling emergencies. All pending administrative proceedings were put on hold.

As a result, there was a delay in IPOs, which not only impacts those companies but also the potential investors and the stock market as a whole.

4. Airlines Lose Business

Airlines across the country all saw their pocketbooks becoming a little lighter thanks to the government shutdown. Since federal workers and contractors were mostly furloughed, they weren’t traveling. This resulted in fewer airline ticket purchases.

Similarly, some other travelers may have changed their plans because of the shutdown. Some TSA workers called in sick instead of working without pay, and security lines got substantially longer. Travelers may have decided it was better to delay their travel plans than contend with the nuisance. As air traffic controllers also began calling in sick, other potential passengers may have forgone their original itinerary based on fear as well.

5. Small Business Impact

The shutdown also did a number on small businesses around the country. Along with slower household spending, something that can affect a company of any size. Companies were unable to approve Small Business Administration loans. This may have caused a squeeze on small business owners who needed the money to maintain operations or go forward with a big project.

Similarly, microbreweries couldn’t get approvals of labels from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), hindering their ability to get new batches out for customers.

Ultimately, the government shutdown was hard on the economy. The examples above only skim the surface of the full impact, and the true nature of the damage may not be clear for months. Plus, if the government fails to strike a deal by mid-February, another shutdown could occur, making a tough situation potentially much worse.

How has the government shutdown affected you? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.

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