Essential Coronavirus Resources and Financial Guidance for You

We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of financial resources and advice for those impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak.

This directory includes unemployment benefits, debt relief, and various resources tailored for seniors, students, and small business owners. We will consistently refresh this list to support you through the financial challenges brought about by the pandemic.

Send us your suggestions for helpful resources at info@savinghunt.com.

Unemployment Resources Related to Coronavirus

Visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop site for information on filing for unemployment benefits due to COVID-19 in your area. You can find details on how to apply for assistance.
Discover additional local and regional employment programs available in your state.
Note: The expanded program under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act now includes gig workers, freelancers, and independent contractors who previously weren’t eligible for unemployment benefits.
This program also covers individuals who are unable to work due to COVID-19, those caring for infected household members, and those affected by facility closures for dependent care.
The United States Bartenders’ Guild has created a Bartender Emergency Assistance Program to provide emergency hardship grants, along with a COVID-19 Relief & Response page offering links to further assistance for hospitality workers.

Credit Card Assistance During COVID-19

Several major credit card issuers have set up dedicated pages on their websites detailing available support:

Resources for Small Business Owners Amid Coronavirus

The stimulus package allocates over $370 billion to support small businesses, including loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Check the streamlined disaster loan application process for eligible small businesses, homeowners, and renters.
Reach out for local assistance from your state’s SBA.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers a Coronavirus Small Business Guide for affected businesses. You can also search for your state’s Chamber of Commerce.
Facebook’s Small Business Grants program is providing $100 million in cash grants and ad credits for businesses impacted by the crisis.

Utilities Assistance During the Pandemic

Residential and small business customers of participating broadband and telephone service providers have signed the Federal Communications Commission’s “Keep Americans Connected Pledge,” ensuring no service terminations and waiving late fees for the next 60 days. Additionally, they’re opening Wi-Fi hotspots to those in need.
Many state and city regulators are directing utility companies (gas, electricity, water) to halt shutoffs for customers struggling with payments. Some companies are deferring bill collection and waiving late fees for residential and commercial clients. If you’re facing hardship, reach out to your utility provider before your payment is due.

Mortgage Payment Relief Options

If your mortgage is backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you can check here to see if you qualify for payment suspension due to COVID-19.
If you're struggling with mortgage payments, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for guidance.
The CFPB suggests contacting a housing counselor. Use this search page to find a HUD-approved agency in your area or call the HOPE Hotline at (888) 995-HOPE (4673) or visit the Homeownership Preservation Foundation’s website.
Check out Bankrate’s explainer on mortgage forbearance and methods of catching up on payments.

Car Loan Payment Assistance

Concerned about your auto loan? The CFPB has resources to help you collaborate with your lender to avoid falling behind.

Student Loan Relief During the Pandemic

Required payments on federally held student loans are suspended until September 30, with no interest accruing during this period. Don't neglect your payments; contact your lender to check if your loan qualifies.
Visit Federal Student Aid for FAQs for students, borrowers, and parents.
Some private lenders are also offering payment suspensions. Check with your lender to see if you qualify.
Consider lowering your monthly payments by enrolling in an income-based payment plan or a plan that extends your repayment period.
For information on repayment plans, visit CFPB, regardless of whether your loans are federal or private.

Debt Collection Guidance

Overwhelmed by debt? Learn how to negotiate a settlement with a debt collector.
Find out the differences between credit counselors and debt relief companies through the CFPB.
Use LawHelp.org to locate free legal aid programs and information for low-income individuals.

Financial Planning Resources for Coronavirus

Find fee-only financial planners specializing in Coronavirus relief.
The Financial Planning Association features a list of Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) volunteering to provide pro-bono financial guidance.

Retirement Account Guidelines During the Pandemic

Contributions to IRAs for the 2019 tax year have been extended to July 15. Ensure you indicate that your deposit is for 2019 to avoid misattribution to 2020.
Required minimum distributions (RMDs) from IRAs and workplace accounts (e.g. 401(k)s) are suspended for the entire 2020 calendar year.
The IRS is waiving the 10% early withdrawal penalty for those accessing funds from an IRA or workplace account due to the outbreak. This applies to withdrawals up to $100,000, and you can spread tax payments over three years, starting on the distribution date.
New provisions in the Coronavirus relief bill allow loans of up to $100,000 from a 401(k) or workplace account, even if it exceeds half your balance, for 180 days post-passage. If you have an existing retirement account loan due before December 31, you have an additional year to repay it.

Tax Filing Extensions Due to Coronavirus

The IRS has extended federal tax filing and payment deadlines to July 15 due to COVID-19. For updates, see irs.gov/coronavirus.
The 2019 IRA contribution deadline is also extended to July 15, 2020.
Individual taxpayers can request a six-month filing extension. If you expect a refund, file your return as soon as possible. Refer to IRS resources for extension forms.
State deadlines may differ. Check your state tax agency for the latest updates.

Senior Citizens Benefits

More than 2,500 benefits are available for seniors. Find out what’s accessible in your area at the National Council on Aging.

Insurance Resources

Geico has halted cancellations due to non-payment through April 30 and is offering flexible payment plans post-normal billing resumption.
Major insurers like Allstate, Liberty Mutual, Farmers, Nationwide, Progressive, State Farm, Travelers, and USAA are providing support for customers facing financial challenges due to the pandemic.
JennyLife has an FAQ about life insurance coverage for COVID-19-related deaths and whether you can apply during the crisis. (Short answer: Yes.)

Military Financial Resources

Members of the military can find financial assistance information at Military One Source.

Food Insecurity Solutions

Burger King is offering two free kids meals with every adult meal ordered through their app, available for takeout and drive-through while supplies last, until April 6. Download through Apple’s App Store or Google Play.
Many restaurant chains are providing free delivery or discounts for orders placed through their apps or online, typically with a minimum purchase requirement.

Domestic Violence Resources

If you’re in an emergency, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or 911. You can also chat confidentially online with a hotline advocate. If it’s unsafe to speak, visit thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522. Check out The Hotline’s safety advice during COVID-19.

Resources for Artists During Coronavirus

Creative Capital offers a list of resources for artists of all disciplines, including grants and emergency relief funds.
Explore COVID-19 Resources for Freelance Artists.

Awareness of Coronavirus Scams

Stay alert for Coronavirus-related scams. The Federal Trade Commission provides information on the types of scams targeting consumers during this crisis, including fake charities and non-deliverable goods.
Report any scams or suspicious activities to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.