Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Financial Relief & More

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Financial Relief & More

The initial shock and confusion of the COVID-19 pandemic’s early weeks have waned. By and large, Americans have done well adjusting to an unprecedented situation that no one asked for and few non-epidemiologists expected to occur in their lifetimes.

But that adjustment has come at a steep cost — human, financial, and emotional. The pandemic has affected everyone to certain extent, from trivial alterations to our habits and routines to life-changing events like job loss, deaths of loved ones, and personal health crises.

At Money Crashers, we’ve been on top of COVID-19 since the beginning. We put out a guide to preparing for the pandemic before the first confirmed cases of community spread emerged in Europe and North America. In the months since, we’ve published dozens of in-depth articles and guides for readers wondering what COVID-19 means for their finances, careers, and families.

What follows is a comprehensive list of all the COVID-related content we’ve published since the pandemic began. Consider this your master resource for questions at the intersection of life, money, and the pandemic. And check back often, as we’re constantly adding to our COVID library.

Protection and Preparation

7 Ways to Prepare for the Next Pandemic (Coronavirus Outbreak) – Preparing for a pandemic is similar to preparing for other emergencies like a long-term power outage or natural disaster, but there are some key differences. Here’s what you can do, on a budget, to prepare your family for a pandemic, including the current COVID-19 pandemic.

10 Ways to Prepare for a Second Wave of Coronavirus Infections – When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many people scrambled to stock up on food and supplies and cope with virus-related unemployment and quarantines. We all just want to get back to normal. But a second wave of infections is possible, and we must be physically, mentally, and financially prepared.

Should You Wear a Face Mask to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19? – States and municipalities across the nation have mandated the use of masks in public places to reduce the spread of COVID-19. But it’s vital you learn the key differences between common types of masks, when to wear (and not wear) them, and best practices for mask usage.

Where to Buy Reusable Cloth Face Masks Online for COVID-19 – Hundreds of retailers, both small and large, sell masks and face coverings. And these are the best places to find these lifesaving devices.

How to Make a Homemade Cloth Face Mask for COVID-19 (Tutorials) – You can easily make your own cloth face masks at home, often using materials you already have. Which mask design is right for you? Find out here.

How to Form a Pandemic Pod to Safely Socialize During Quarantine During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are turning to pandemic pods to maintain social connections and regain a sense of normalcy. But finding people you can trust with your health is no easy feat, and there are many things to consider before you form a pod.

Should I Get a Flu Shot? – Vaccine Effectiveness, Side Effects & Types – This year, with COVID-19 still ravaging much of the nation and sweeping the globe, it’s more important than ever to get the flu vaccine to stay healthy and keep hospitals from getting overloaded. But what are the risks? How much does it cost? And where can you get one? Find out here.

Sick at Work? – How to Prevent the Spread of Germs in Your Office – During the global COVID-19 pandemic, many people don’t have the option of working remotely. Properly cleaning and disinfecting your workspace could save someone’s life, including your own. At the very least, it helps prevent an illness that could cost you valuable workdays and productivity.

How to Travel for Business Safely During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Travel restrictions and COVID-19 precautions have permeated the business travel industry, with many companies canceling most or all travel. Whether you’re an employee or employer, if you must travel for work, it’s vital you follow the most up-to-date restrictions and guidelines to stay safe.

9 Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally – As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads, many people are looking for ways to strengthen their immune systems and better resist infection from the virus. There’s no one pill that makes you invincible to viruses and bacteria, but these lifestyle changes can give your immune system a better chance.

Financial Resources

Coronavirus Emergency Financial Aid & Stimulus Measures (Latest) – Bookmark this regularly updated list of all the actions the U.S. government has taken to bolster the economy and how they affect you.

COVID-19 Stimulus Payments Eligibility & How to Get Yours – Thanks to the federal government’s March 2020 economic stimulus package, most Americans received one-time cash payments beginning in April 2020. Will there be a second stimulus payment? We update you on the latest here.

Does Life Insurance Cover Coronavirus (COVID-19)? – One of the many sources of uncertainty for Americans these days involves a form of financial protection people usually regard as a sure bet: life insurance. Millions of us are wondering whether life insurance covers deaths attributable to COVID-19. On that front, there’s good news and bad news.

How You Can Take Advantage of Low Interest Rates Right Now – Interest rates are near historic lows due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact, which has brought whole sectors of industry to a standstill. While that’s bad news, there may be a silver lining for well-positioned borrowers. Here’s how you can take advantage of the current low interest rates.

Credit Cards Rewards & Benefits for the COVID-19 Era – The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted society and the economy on a global scale. And well over a dozen credit cards have temporarily added rewards categories (or increased existing rewards rates) and valuable fringe benefits to reflect their newly homebound users’ changing spending habits.

Resources for Employees & Independent Contractors

Unemployment

How to Prepare Financially & Survive Unemployment or Job Loss – 9 Tips – Many people are facing the prospect of reduced hours or losing their jobs as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads around the globe and companies are shutting their doors or reducing staff. If you’re worried you’re going to lose your job, it’s essential you start financially preparing to survive unemployment.

Unemployment Benefits During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Guide – The COVID-19 pandemic caused an unprecedented spike in jobless claims. But the vast majority of workers are eligible for state unemployment benefits. Follow these steps to apply.

Protections for Gig Economy Workers – Current & Proposed – State and local governments are proposing and enacting new laws to force companies to offer gig workers protections like health insurance and paid time off. Find out if you’re eligible for any here.

How to Make the Most of Your Unemployment If You’ve Lost Your Job – Sudden and unexpected unemployment can be frightening and stressful. But there are plenty of strategies you can use right now to get yourself ready for the next stage in your life.

Employees Hiring During the Coronavirus Pandemic – Job Opportunities – It seems every new headline spells certain doom for the global economy as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. But many organizations have seen a spike in demand in the wake of the outbreak. If you worry your job is on the chopping block, explore these job options.

How to Find a Job When the Unemployment Rate Continues to Rise – If you’re out of work, you’re probably eying the unemployment rate with concern. But even when times are tough, you don’t have to settle for the first job offer that comes along. If you want to find a job you like in a tough economic climate, you just have to answer some questions.

Worker Protections

Workers’ Compensation & COVID-19 – What You Need to Know – Work-related COVID-19 illness is eligible for workers’ compensation — but determining whether an infection is eligible and whether it warrants a claim isn’t always clear-cut. If you’ve been diagnosed with the virus, find out what you need to know about filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Disability Insurance & Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Are You Covered? – Among the many sources of trepidation for working Americans these days is whether their disability insurance will cover pandemic-related work loss. The answer is: It depends on the circumstances.

Compassionate (Paid) Family Leave – What It Covers & How to Use It – Compassionate leave or paid family leave gives flexibility to workers with family obligations and dependent care needs, and it’s fairly common in the developed economies of the world. What is compassionate leave and what would it look like in the U.S.? Learn more about it here.

Working From Home

How to Negotiate a Flexible/Remote Work Schedule With Your Employer – Some employers remain hesitant to let people work remotely. If your boss is one of the holdouts on remote work, here’s how you can negotiate it.

12 Biggest Challenges of Working From Home – How to Overcome Them – Whether you’re starting a business or are one of the millions telecommuting for the first time, understanding the challenges of working from home and how to overcome them is the first step to ensuring you become a successful and productive remote worker.

How to Set Up a Home Office on a Budget – Organization & Tips – Are you setting up your first home office? Even if you’re trying to get up and running fast, you don’t have to spend a fortune. Here’s how to plan, budget for, and save on everything you need, from electronics to furniture to supplies.

How to Keep Your Kids Busy When You Need to Work From Home – If you’re working from home while your kids are out because of COVID-19 school closures, you have to find a way to keep them occupied so you can get your work done. Take these tips from a 20-year veteran teacher and mom to keep yourself productive and your kids entertained.

How to Make the Most of Attending Virtual Conferences – Many conferences are quickly adapting to our new reality and moving entirely online. But are they as good as in-person conferences? As it turns out, they can be just as valuable if you know what to look for and take the right steps to make the most of the experience.

Resources for Employers

How to Prepare for the Coronavirus in Your Business – Remote Office Plan – The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has come with a side effect none before it has evoked: Companies all over the world are sending employees home to work. And putting a solid plan in place first can help set everyone up for success in the uncertain weeks or months to come.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) – Guide for Small-Business Owners – The Small Business Administration is disbursing more than $600 billion in low-interest forgivable loans to many American small businesses, freelancers, and nonprofits through the Paycheck Protection Program. Find out if you qualify and how to apply before the money runs out.

PPP Loan Repayment & Forgiveness – Common Questions Answered – The Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act allows borrowers to use up to 40% of their loans’ proceeds for certain nonpayroll expenses without jeopardizing forgiveness eligibility provided they use the remainder for payroll expenses. But many borrowers still have questions. Get the answers here.

Compassionate (Paid) Family Leave – What It Covers & How to Use It – Compassionate leave or paid family leave gives flexibility to workers with family obligations and dependent care needs, and it’s fairly common in the developed economies of the world. What is compassionate leave and what would it look like in the U.S.? Learn more about it here.

Education Resources

For Teachers

50 Resources Schools & Teachers Can Use During COVID-19 Closures – With many schools considering remote classes for Fall 2020, educators continue to need ways to figure out how to keep teaching students when they can’t be in the same room. Fortunately, many companies have tools available for all grade levels, from kindergarten through college. And much of it is currently free or discounted.

For Parents

How to Keep Kids From Regressing During School Breaks – 52 Resources – All over the U.S., millions of kids are preparing to begin the school year learning at home. That’s left many parents wondering how to supplement long-distance instruction that could last for months, if not the whole school year. If you’re one of them, try these tips from a 20-year teaching veteran and mom.

Should I Home-School My Child? Pros & Cons to Consider – In the months that followed pandemic-related school closures, many families discovered that home schooling worked out well for them. And many are now considering making it permanent. But home schooling isn’t right for every family. Before taking the leap, read up on the pros and cons.

How to Home-School Your Child on a Budget & Sve Money – More than half (60%) of parents are considering home schooling instead of sending their kids back this fall. But it can get expensive if you’re not careful. Thankfully, there are many ways to give your kids an enriching education at home on a tight budget.

For Students

High School Grads: Start College in Fall 2020 or Take a Gap Year? – Without the full college experience on the table, as many as 35% of students have decided to take a gap year next year. But is putting your education on hold the right decision for you? There’s a lot to consider, and it ultimately comes down to what you want from your education or gap year.

Should I Take Online College Classes? – Pros & Cons, Questions to Ask – Online college courses and degree programs are especially appealing to some students during this pandemic. Learn more about them, and whether they might be a good option for you, here.

College Grads: What to Do If Your Job Offer Is Rescinded (Hiring Freeze) – Many 2020 graduates completed their degrees only to find their job offers frozen or rescinded because of the pandemic. If you’re one of them, here’s what you can do now.

Mental & Emotional Resources

How to Get Affordable Mental Health Treatment & Therapy on a Budget – Living through a global health crisis can take a toll on your mental health. Fortunately, there are ways to get help even if you’re short on money. Don’t struggle alone; check out these treatment options.

8 Social Distancing Activities to Spend Time With Family & Friends – Social distancing doesn’t mean you need to be socially isolated. There are plenty of ways to spend time with people you love while you’re physically apart.

25 Ideas to Keep Entertained at Home (Even If You’re Quarantined) – The monotony and boredom of self-quarantine can be just as draining as the fear of contracting the virus itself. But in today’s world, you have endless options to keep yourself busy and connected — even if you didn’t plan ahead.

Investing

COVID Stocks – What They Are & Why You Should Invest in Them -COVID-19 stocks represent companies that provide products and services designed to prevent or treat the novel coronavirus. Do these stocks represent a good investment opportunity, and should you consider investing in them? Read on for more about the pros and cons of investing in COVID-19 stocks.

8 Investments to Protect Against a Post-COVID-19 Inflation Spike – With trillions of dollars announced in the COVID-19 stimulus, economists have sounded the alarm on rampant future inflation. Prices could spike, and the dollar’s value could collapse. But not all investments get hit evenly by dollar decay. Find out which investments can protect your portfolio.

5 Stocks to Buy as the Market Recovers From the COVID-19 Pandemic -COVID-19 has changed the world and many consumer behaviors and trends. The stock market, too, has been on a wild ride, with many sectors and companies still well below their pre-COVID valuations. What stocks should you buy in anticipation of the COVID-19 recovery? Here are several ideas to consider.

9 Best Investments to Make During a Recession With Volatile Markets – Even with market volatility, there are still investment opportunities. Understanding what those opportunities are and how to take advantage of them can leave you poised to succeed when the economy returns to normal.

How to Invest During a Stock Market Bubble and Cash in Before It Pops – Most people have heard of the dot-com bubble. Many believe it was the only bubble ever to inflate the market. But bubbles happen all the time, including now as we deal with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. And making your share of coin as these bubbles inflate — and even after they pop — isn’t as hard as you think.

Other Resources

Deals & Discounts for First Responders – First responders and essential workers are the glue that holds society together, particularly in times of crisis. Many American businesses recognize how important they are and are giving discounts to help during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus Scams – Real-World Examples & What to Watch Out For – History is rife with stories of tragedy bringing out the best in people. It’s also scarred by examples of the opposite. COVID-19’s arrival and corresponding economic shock have given rise to a host of scams. But you can learn how to spot the telltale signs of each grift and avoid falling victim.

Coronavirus Travel Restrictions, Airline & Hotel Cancellation Policies – Has the coronavirus pandemic derailed your upcoming travel plans? Check this list of COVID-19 virus-related travel restrictions, warnings, and cancellation policies to decide whether you should rebook or cancel for a refund or credit (and how to do that if so).

16 Charities and Nonprofits Providing COVID-19 Relief (Highest-Rated) – The one-two punch of the pandemic and recession has caused widespread suffering, as people worry about their health and finances simultaneously. You can help by donating to one of these top charities for COVID-19 relief.

How to Support Small Businesses During the Coronavirus Pandemic – Social distancing is causing many small businesses to close or scale back. That means there’s now less money going back into local economies. Thankfully, if you want to support local business owners while complying with social distancing, there are still plenty of options available.

13 “Quarantine Recipes” With Nonperishable Ingredients From Your Fridge – With lockdowns, shortages, and social distancing considerations, many people find themselves with only sporadic access to grocery stores. When you can’t stomach the thought of one more pack of ramen noodles, you need these recipe ideas that don’t rely on fresh ingredients.

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Will Permanently Change Society & the Economy – One thing about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is already clear: It has dramatically changed societies and economies the world over. Many changes will outlive the pandemic, though to what extent depends on the eventual duration and toll it takes. Which ones will impact your life the most?

What Americans Are Searching For During the Pandemic – And What This Tells Us About Their Finances –  It’s only natural for people to turn to Google to answer some of their most pressing financial questions. We took a deep dive into what Americans are searching for to better understand how people are coping with their personal finances during the coronavirus pandemic — and what that means for their future.

Many Saw the 2020 Recession Coming – But Are They Prepared? (Survey) – In 2019, long before COVID-19 was on the public radar, Money Crashers polled Americans to see when they believed the next recession would happen and what they believed would trigger it. It turns out that many people saw the collapse coming. But does that mean they’re ready for one?

Holidays

Holiday Travel Tips 2021 – How to Stay Safe During COVID-19 – Want a stress-free holiday season? Don’t travel. The holidays mean long lines, delayed flights, congested traffic, and dense crowds — an even worse combination than usual in the era of COVID-19. But if you must, keep these tips in mind to stay safe and reduce stress.

50 Halloween Safety Tips – Celebrating During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Halloween’s a lot of fun. When else can you dress up as whoever or whatever you want and gorge yourself on candy? But if you’re unprepared for the safety pitfalls, the fun can quickly turn into a nightmare, especially in the era of COVID-19. Here’s how you can celebrate and keep your family safe.

Final Word

The future is unpredictable in the best of times, and these are certainly not the best of times. Wake Forest Baptist Health infectious disease expert Dr. Christopher Ohl predicted in early July that the COVID-19 pandemic would come under control in the United States by July 4, 2021, in remarks reported by the Triad Business Journal — a forecast he immediately acknowledged was overly optimistic. Many epidemiologists expect COVID-19 outbreaks to continue for years, long after a hoped-for vaccine is widely available.

We here at Money Crashers do know one thing for sure: We’ll keep abreast of the latest developments and continue to answer the most urgent questions at the intersection of COVID-19 and personal finance. We hope you’ll follow along as we add to our library of pandemic-related content, and — as always — we welcome your feedback.

Published at Wed, 27 Jan 2021 18:00:19 +0000