The U.S. government is constantly evolving. While some agencies have lasted for centuries, others have been shut down, merged, or replaced.
Whether due to budget cuts, constitutional rulings, or changing priorities, these 10 departments and agencies no longer exist today.
1. Post Office Department (1792–1971)
Before the U.S. had the United States Postal Service (USPS), mail was handled by the Post Office Department—a full Cabinet-level department. In 1971, it was transformed into an independent agency to run more efficiently.
Why it shut down: Reorganized into an independent government agency.
2. United States Revenue Cutter Service (1790–1915)
This was one of America’s first law enforcement agencies, patrolling the seas for smugglers and pirates. In 1915, it merged with the U.S. Life-Saving Service to form the modern U.S. Coast Guard.
Why it shut down: Merged into the Coast Guard.
3. U.S. Life-Saving Service (1848–1915)
Before the Coast Guard existed, the U.S. Life-Saving Service was responsible for rescuing shipwrecked sailors. In 1915, it merged with the Revenue Cutter Service, creating the Coast Guard as we know it today.
Why it shut down: Merged into the Coast Guard.
4. National Recovery Administration (1933–1935)
The National Recovery Administration (NRA) was a key part of FDR’s New Deal, aiming to regulate wages and business practices. However, the Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional in 1935, shutting it down just two years after it began.
Why it shut down: Declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
5. Civilian Conservation Corps (1933–1942)
The CCC put thousands of young men to work building parks, roads, and forests during the Great Depression. While popular, it was shut down during World War II, as funding shifted to the war effort.
Why it shut down: Budget cuts during WWII.
6. United States Housing Corporation (1918–1933)
Created during World War I, this agency built housing for war workers. After the war, it was dissolved, and its responsibilities were handed over to New Deal housing programs.
Why it shut down: Replaced by New Deal housing agencies.
7. Office of Technology Assessment (1972–1995)
This agency provided Congress with scientific and tech analysis, helping lawmakers make informed decisions. In 1995, it was defunded by Congress, which saw it as unnecessary.
Why it shut down: Budget cuts.
8. Civil Aeronautics Board (1938–1985)
Before airlines set their own prices, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) controlled airline routes and fares. In the 1980s, airline deregulation eliminated the need for this agency, and it was dissolved in 1985.
Why it shut down: Deregulation of the airline industry.
9. United States Information Agency (1953–1999)
The USIA was responsible for public diplomacy and international broadcasting during the Cold War. In 1999, its functions were absorbed by the State Department.
Why it shut down: Merged into the State Department.
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10. Atomic Energy Commission (1946–1974)
After World War II, the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) was created to oversee nuclear energy. In 1974, it was split into two agencies: the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the Department of Energy (DOE).
Why it shut down: Reorganized into new agencies.
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