Where to Get Relief If There Is No Second Stimulus Check
The Senate did not pass the latest version of the Republican stimulus bill last week, making it less likely that we will see another aid package ahead of the election. Congress may now focus on passing short-term legislation to keep government funding until the September 30 deadline, CNN reports .
This can be bad news if you’re one of the millions of Americans struggling to make ends meet – especially if you’ve been waiting for additional unemployment benefits, payroll protection funding, or other incentive check. Fortunately, there are a few more help programs that you can turn to for support.
Prohibition of eviction
There is currently a nationwide moratorium on evictions until December 31, 2020. You may be eligible if you “worked hard” to apply for other government assistance and earned less than $ 99,000 a year ($ 198,000 if co-filing). You need to prove the financial hardships associated with the pandemic and that the eviction could increase the risk of contracting COVID-19. In order to be eligible, you must also make the partial rent payments on time, as close as possible to the full amount.
Suspension of federal student loans
You can also qualify for a suspension of federal student loan payments . The temporary hiatus will run until December 31, 2020, and the Department of Education has confirmed that this period counts towards forgiveness for the forgiveness of public services loans and income-based repayment plans.
Unemployment benefits
Although the $ 600 additional weekly unemployment benefit expired in July, some states are now offering $ 300 a week through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). There is a list of which the state currently has grants for additional assistance here . To qualify, you must be unemployed or have had reduced hours due to COVID-19. You must also be eligible for the first three weeks of August and receive a weekly benefit of at least $ 100.
Free school lunch
USDA Free School Lunch Program has been extended until December 31, 2020. Your children may be eligible for free nutritious meals even if local public schools close due to the pandemic.
If you find it difficult to pay for food, you may also be eligible for other food assistance programs such as SNAP or WIC, and you can visit local grocery pantries regardless of your income.
Seek Local Help
Depending on where you live, your state, county, or city may also offer help. You may be eligible for more than you expect, such as industry-specific benefits, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can use Candid to search for coronavirus relief funds by location.
For example, Tennessee offers funds through the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) service. There are also local programs such as hospitality assistance , free broadband and free financial advice .