It's possible for them not to get back pay, even though so far they always get paid. It's worth noting, however, that government contractors sometimes don't

It's possible for them not to get back pay, even though so far they always get paid. It's worth noting, however, that government contractors sometimes don't get back pay after being furloughed due to a government shutdown. I agree, however, that it's a bad idea to bring up one's personal financial problems when looking for a job. I think there's a greater chance than not that employers likely to respond will try to take advantage of OP's desperation.