Normally, such a thing doesn't happen.
It could end all payments by the federal government, even including Social Security and Medicare payments, although that is unlikely. More likely would be the shutdown of all citizen-facing government offices. Many projects would go on a delayed basis until funding is restored.
The military would continue operate, although some activities could be cancelled or limited.
Basically, the extent of the shutdown could vary. In the past, just the threat of a shutdown got something through Congress to continue funding while the two parties fought out a long-term funding bill.
Will it happen? Perhaps. Will it affect you? Probably in some way. Will they stop making SS payments and covering Medicare recipients? Highly unlikely. That is an almost untouchable idea.
You won't be able to renew your passport or use the federal courts, and some federal employees would be furloughed, except for "essential personnel," whoever those might be.
Will it actually happen? Probably not. Government shutdowns are very unpopular with voters, so Congress generally finds a way to keep it open.
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