During the federal shutdown, approximately 1,700 D.C. residents received unemployment benefits while they were furloughed for 16 days -- totaling $500,000.

Continue reading

The highest payment made to any of these furloughed employees was reportedly $359, which is the highest amount allowed under D.C. law. Now, those residents who received benefits will have about two months to pay that money back.

According to D.C. Department of Employment Services spokesperson, Najla Haywood, about $34,000 has been voluntarily repaid by furloughed federal workers to date.

Those who have yet to pay can set up a six-month payment plan. After 60 days, without a payment plan in place, their wages will be garnished.