Today’s Updates In The Time of Corona

Wednesday, August 5

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

We have been collecting updates for folks who are homebound or sheltering-in-place. This page is updated continually, and we are doing our very best to only include verified, reliable, real help you can actually apply for in this moment. Please comment below with more news or updates.

🌷 Find unemployment in your state: 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🌷 Special discounts on internet service, plus programs that offer $10 internet: Internet In the Time of Corona

🌷 Strategies for delaying or eliminating household bills: Taking a Small Pause on Bills in the Time of Corona

🌷 Programs that can help you pause or eliminate your student loans: Student Loans in the Time of Corona

🌷 For friends with housing vouchers, HUD housing, or public housing: HUD Housing: Changing Your Rent if Your Income Goes Down

🌷 More solutions for housing: Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

🧡 Social connections in a socially distant world. Facebook groups for news, updates, recovery stories, memorials, bird watching, beard growing, daily games, cooking in quarantine, volunteer sewing to make masks, and much more more: 62 Great Facebook Groups in the Time of Corona

🧡 Chalk art, driveway art, online art classes, art projects for kids, art challenges, art in isolation, photography, painting with purpose, virtual studios. Artists, crafters, and art lovers. Facebook Groups for Art & Creativity in the Time of Corona

🧡 Medicare and some other insurance companies require a “face-to-face” assessment with a doctor to prescribe a wheelchair, scooter, walker, hospital bed, or other equipment. Now that online visits are being treated the same as in-person visits, you may have a window of opportunity: Oh My God. Homebound People Can Get Medical

🧡 Home during school closings? More resources and help for parents: Home with the Kids

🧡 Out of work? Reduced hours? Here’s an overview of your options: 10 Ways Salary Can Continue When Your Work Stops or Hours Reduce

🧡 Help and support for nurses, doctors, healthcare workers, seniors, artists, and more: Local & Community Help in the Time of Corona

🧡 Some people on food stamps have to use Amazon (or whatever service accepts food stamps in their area). If you are not on food stamps, more options for: How to Get Food Without Leaving Your House.

🧡 Pandemic Unemployment Assistance is a new unemployment program that is easier to qualify for. It may be in your state right now, or will be coming very soon. Before applying: Important Tips for Applying for Unemployment in The Time of Corona

🧡 Facebook groups for parents – Connect with other parents and find ideas for at-home activities, support for parents in quarantine, homeschooling, art and education ideas, helping your kids cope, and coping yourself. Home with the Kids in the Time of Corona

🧡 Jams, jamborees, DJs, karaoke, hand drumming, music festivals. Facebook groups for musicians and music lovers during coronavirus 2020. Music in the Time of Corona

🧡 For anyone on Medicaid or anyone who wants to be on Medicaid: Medicaid in the Time of Corona.

🧡 Many doctors are now offering telemedicine. If you are homebound and can’t get to the doctor, you may have a chance now: Online Doctors & Therapists in the Time of Corona

🧡 For friends with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: ME/CFS in the Time of Corona

🧡 You can also get wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds and other equipment more easily now: Oh My God. Homebound People Can Get Medical Equipment Now??!!

🧡 Social Security is continuing to process disability applications. A few things it might help to know: Applying for Disability in the Time of Corona

🌷 If you or your kids haven’t received a stimulus check, you can still get one by filing a tax return at the end of 2020. You can file a tax return even if you have $0 income. Learn More: The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🌷 Popular reader question: How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP Food Stamps (EBT)

🧡 Are you looking for The Perfect Cure for Social Distancing? We found it.

🧡 Please comment below with more updates. You can also join our Facebook Page

🧡 Here’s where you can find a directory with all our pages: Directory

This blog was created by people with ME/CFS (Sometimes called “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome”).

Being homebound is nothing new to us. Many of us have been homebound or bedridden for five, or ten, or twenty years.

There is now a great deal of support, understanding, and help available to people staying home during Coronavirus, but none of this was available to us all these years, and when Coronavirus is over, it may go away again.

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

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Saturday, July 18

🌷 If you or your kids haven’t received a check yet: Three Places to Sign Up For Stimulus Checks

🌷 USDA Purchasing Pilot – Many More States – Online grocery ordering with food stamps is coming soon to these states. Stay tuned.

🧡 For people in HUD Housing and Housing Vouchers: If your income drops: Request to Change Your Rent. If that doesn’t work: If Your Housing Worker Refuses to Lower Rent

🧡 If you are receiving the extra $600 per week in pandemic unemployment, this money is excluded for HUD housing and housing vouchers: Letter if Housing Agency Did Not Exclude Your Pandemic Unemployment Pay

Friday, May 8

🧡 Stimulus payments have started arriving and it is a giant mess! Most common problems reported by our readers:

– getting no check
– getting a check for adults, but child’s payment missing
– check’s being sent to wrong bank accounts

🧡 If you didn’t get a check, don’t panic. Some checks are still being mailed out. Your check may still be coming.

🧡 For other problems: The treasury department has not yet released information on how to resolve other problems. Stay tuned: Why Didn’t I Get a Stimulus Check? When Will It Come?

🧡 For People in HUD Housing or Housing Vouchers: Frequently asked questions for Housing Authorities in the time of coronavirus. Highlights:

Smoke-free policies still in place. No exceptions.
In many cases, protections from evictions if you can’t pay rent (you’ll still owe the rent later… make sure to report and request your rent to be lowered if your income has gone down)
Stimulus checks don’t count as income
Additional $600 per week in unemployment does not count as income (regular unemployment still counts)
Housing agencies can place bans or limits on visitors (you can still request an RA if visitor is needed for disability care)
More guidance for housing agencies on various COVID issues

Monday, May 4

🧡 Stimulus checks for parents on SSI or Veteran’s Benefits. Deadline is May 5th to sign up your child to get a $500 child payment. Is it Too Late To Sign Up My Kids For Stimulus Payments? This only applies if:

You have children under age 17
You are on SSI (not SSDI) or Veterans benefits
You have not filed taxes
You have not already gotten your stimulus check

🧡 Note: If your child is now 17 but was 16 in December 2019, your child is eligible if you filed taxes.

🧡 What if you are in this situation and you didn’t file taxes but are using the IRS non-filers form instead? The IRS has been unclear on this point, and conflicting information appears on the website. It is worth signing up to try. Stay tuned for more info.

🧡 Some people on Social Security have gotten their stimulus checks. Some have not gotten them yet. The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

Sunday, May 3

🧡 We are hearing from many many readers on Social Security who got their checks and did not get payment for their child (even though they used the IRS non-filers tool) If this happened to you, don’t panic. It is happening to everyone. IRS has not yet released details on what to do in this situation. It’s possible they are still processing the children’s payments and will automatically send them, but no information has be released.

🧡 CNN has suggested to handle it this way: “The IRS will send a confirmation letter via mail within 15 days. This letter will explain the amount of your stimulus check and how to report any issues with the payment. You can use that information when the letter comes to report any discrepancies.”

🧡 Note: The IRS is sending out letters by mail. Not by email, text or phone call. If you receive an email text or phone call, it may be a scam.

🧡 Many readers are writing to ask what happens if they have a representative payee for their disability check. The answer is: Nothing. Having a payee has no impact on stimulus checks. All that matters if whether or not you were claimed as a dependent on taxes or on stimulus sign up forms. Stimulus Checks for Adults Who are Dependents

Thursday, April 30

🧡 For people with payees, where does your stimulus check go? If you signed up using the IRS tool, your check will go to whatever bank account you listed, or if you didn’t list one, you’ll be mailed a paper check. If you didn’t sign up, then your check will go to wherever your Social Security payment usually goes. Learn more about representative payees, and how to avoid them or change them: How to Avoid Getting a Representative Payee

🌷 Medicaid: If you are in a disability home aide program, some states are expanding to offer home delivered meals. Check with your caseworker, or learn more about changes in your state: Changes to Medicaid Home Care in the Time of Corona

Wednesday, April 29

🧡 Many people on SSDI and Social Security are now reporting that their stimulus check deposits are now pending in their bank accounts. Checks for people on SSI have not been processed yet and are expected “early May.” Why Didn’t I Get a Stimulus Check? When Will It Come?

🧡 Update/Correction: HUD has issued some new regs for people getting an extra $600 per month in unemployment. The extra money WILL be excluded as income for HUD, Housing Vouchers & Section 8. Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

Tuesday, April 28

🧡 Parents who are on SSI and have kids under 17: If you did not file taxes in 2018 or 2019, you have a deadline of May 5th to sign up your children for stimulus payments.

🧡 Parents on SSDI and other forms of Social Security who have kids under 17: You’ve missed the deadline this year. You can file next year. Is it Too Late To Sign Up My Kids For Stimulus Payments?

Monday, April 27

🧡 Jams, jamborees, DJs, karaoke, hand drumming, music festivals. Facebook groups for musicians and music lovers during coronavirus 2020. Music in the Time of Corona

🧡 Resources and support during quarantine for Actors, Realtors, Food and Beverage Industry, Women Physicians, Healthcare Workers in ICU, Physicians, Disabled & High risk: Local & Community Help in the Time of Corona

🧡 Facebook groups for support and help during quarantine. Find groups in your city, state or town Local & Community Help in the Time of Corona

Sunday, April 26

🧡 For anyone on Medicaid or anyone who wants to be on Medicaid: Medicaid in the Time of Corona. This page includes:

Changes for people in Medicaid Home Care
Changes for parents of disabled children
Changes that make it easier to get medication
How to get Medicaid if you can’t afford health insurance
Will unemployment and stimulus payments impact Medicaid?
More changes that make it easier to get, keep or use Medicaid

Saturday, April 25

🧡 44 states have now added $600 per week to unemployment checks. All states coming soon. In most states, people are now receiving a higher weekly check than they were when they were working. $600 Per Week in Unemployment. Three Examples.

🧡 Special Program For People Who Do Not Usually Qualify for Unemployment: Did you get turned down for unemployment? Or did you get approved but get a benefit of $0? If you applied in the past and got turned down, check to see if your state has created a way to apply for “pandemic unemployment assistance.”

Friday, April 24

🧡 First round of stimulus checks have gone out. First round went to some of the people who either filed taxes or signed up for stimulus payments (using TurboTax, FreeTax, or IRS).

🧡 Many reports of problems including: Checks going to wrong bank accounts, child payments being missing, overpayments, underpayments, checks going to people who have died, etc. IRS states that they are aware of these problems and are working on them. They have not yet released information on what you can do to resolve the problem. Stay tuned.

🧡 The big question: Why Didn’t I Get a Stimulus Check? When Will It Come?

🧡 For people with children under age 17: Is it too late to sign up your kids to get stimulus payments? Maybe. Maybe not. If you are on some form of Social Security payments, and you did not file taxes, it may be too late this year: Is it Too Late To Sign Up My Kids For Stimulus Payments?

🧡 Can I collect unemployment even if I never worked? Maybe. Under the new unemployment laws, some states will allow you to receive unemployment if you had a job offer but lost the offer or were unable to take the job due to the pandemic.

🧡 If my hours are reduced will I be eligible for unemployment? How much do they have to reduce? Unclear. The formula for unemployment is slightly different in each state and the rules have changed a lot, particularly for people who are self-employed or gig workers. Many people who were not eligible before will now qualify. Important Tips for Applying for Unemployment in The Time of Corona

🧡 If I receive an extra $600 per week in unemployment will this impact my other benefits? Some. It will impact everything except Medicaid and CHIP. You and your family will not lose Medicaid. Want official confirmation that it won’t impact your Medicaid? Look here. Learn more: $600 Per Week in Unemployment. Three Examples.

🧡 Many people are reporting that their stimulus payments arrived but were missing the extra $500 for their child. The IRS states that they are aware of this problem and they are working on it. The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🧡 Updates for people who have home aides through Medicaid. (Or parents whose kids get Medicaid home care). A list of some of the changes that have been approved during coronavirus crisis. Some of these changes are listed as temporary. We hope they will continue. Changes to Medicaid Home Care in the Time of Corona

Thursday, April 23

🧡 Can I get on Medicaid now? If your income has lowered, you might be eligible now. If you are on Medicaid, all health care costs are covered and you will have no expenses (but you may be very limited in which doctors you can see). In many situations, Medicaid will also pay for video appointments with a doctor. Remember, if you are receiving the $600 per week in unemployment, this won’t count as income for Medicaid.

🧡 Medicaid is easier to get in some states than in others. If you live in a state that has expanded Medicaid, there is no limit on assets and nearly everyone who is low income can qualify. State that expanded Medicaid.

🧡 If you live in a state that did not expand Medicaid, you may need to have very little money (you can still own a house or a car) plus be a child or parent. If you can’t get Medicaid, there are also some Creative Ways to Get Medicaid

🧡 Exception: If you are on Medicare, then Medicaid can be more difficult to get in all states. Look here instead: How to Escape Medicare Fees

Wednesday, April 22

🧡 For anyone who has children under age 17: Deadline: Noon. This Wednesday!
If you have not yet filed taxes or signed up for a stimulus check, act quick. You have til noon on Wednesday to sign your kids up. Stimulus Checks Tips for Parents

🧡 Can’t get a delivery slot on Amazon? Reader’s tip: Start as early as possible in the day. Put everything in your cart ready to check out. Come back every 30 minutes and try to check out. Eventually a slot will open. The minute it opens, grab it, even if it is not for today.

🧡 Some banks and car companies are allowing people to pause car payments. You’ll still owe the money, but you’ll have more time to pay. Pause car payments.

🌷 Good news for parents of disabled kids: If your child is in a Medicaid home care program, you may be able to be paid to be their caregiver now. Many more states have been approved to allow parent providers. Home with the Kids in the Time of Corona

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Tuesday, April 21

Here’s the newest news right now:

🌷 Good news for spouses of disabled people: If your spouse is in a Medicaid home care program, you may be able to be paid to be their caregiver now. While this was already allowed in about 20 states, it has now expanded to even more states.

🌷 Here’s where you can find a list of changes approved to Medicaid home care programs. To find changes in your state, look for “Appendix K” under your state. You can search for the line “Allow spouses and parents of minor children to provide personal care services.” Approved Changes to Medicaid Home Care

🌷 California: online grocery delivery with food stamps starts April 28. More states here: How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP Food Stamps (EBT)

🧡 Updates for adults who are dependents. Updated information on: Adults On Social Security, Parents Who Have Guardianship, Parents Who are Caregivers, People with Representative Payees, and People Collecting Social Security through a Parent. Stimulus Checks for Adults Who are Dependents

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Monday, April 20

🧡 Social Security disability cases are still processing. Ruby got approved this week: The Dazzling Disability Doctor Letter of Miss Ruby Fierce

🧡 New laws to help people with student loans: Help with Student Loans in the Time of Corona

🧡 Stimulus checks: Treasury Department previously stated that checks would be based on 2019 tax returns, and only use 2018 if 2019 was not filed. Reader’s report that this is not true, and they are using the 2018 first for some people.

🧡 Which tax return they use can be significant for parents. It can impact whether your child gets a check if your child is now 17 or 18. It can also impact which parent receives the check, if parents are divorced or file separately. Stimulus Checks Tips for Parents

🧡 Kroger is expanding to accept SNAP for curbside pickup at locations throughout the US. Order groceries online, then drive by your local Kroger (or ask a friend to go for you). Keep checking back. Locations expanding this month.

🌷 Online grocery delivery with food stamps. USDA has announced this will soon be expanding to the following states: WV, CA, AZ, ID, FL, NC, DC. Stay tuned. More states here: How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP Food Stamps (EBT)

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Sunday, April 19

🧡 Stimulus checks: What happens if you owe taxes? This has no impact on your check. In addition, if you are disabled, you might find something on this page helpful: How to Get Tax Breaks for Disabilities

🧡 What if I owe student loans? This has no impact on your check. In addition, if you are disabled, you might find something on this page helpful: Help with Student Loans in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 What if I owe money to Social Security? This will have no impact on your check. In addition, in some cases, there may be ways to eliminate what you owe: How To Handle a Social Security Overpayment Notice

🧡 What if I owe Child Support? In some cases, your stimulus check may be used for the child support instead of going to you. Learn more: The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

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Saturday, April 18

🧡 Help and support for nurses, doctors, healthcare workers, seniors, artists, and more: Local & Community Help in the Time of Corona

🧡 Some people have started receiving stimulus checks! Sort of! There are problems with some checks going to the wrong bank accounts, going to people who have died, or missing the child’s benefit. The IRS states they are working to resolve these problems.

🧡 If you filed taxes: Many readers are reporting they already received checks. If you haven’t received yours yet, it may be coming in the next batch. Hopefully, next week.

🧡 If you signed up for a stimulus check: Many readers are reporting they already received checks. If you haven’t received yours yet, it may be coming in the next batch. Hopefully, next week.

🧡 If you are on Social Security and you did not sign up for a check, your check will come later. Exact date unknown. Social Security Administration has said “no later than early May.” The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🧡 Changes to HUD policies that might benefit tenants in HUD housing, Public Housing and Housing Vouchers: Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

🧡 Home during school closings? More resources and help for parents: Home with the Kids

🧡 New info for parents (including parents of adult disabled children). Stimulus Checks Tips for Parents

🧡 Out of work? Reduced hours? Here’s an overview of your options: 10 Ways Salary Can Continue When Your Work Stops or Hours Reduce

Friday, April 17

🧡 Before applying for unemployment read this: Important Tips for Applying for Unemployment in The Time of Corona

🧡 Under the Cares Act, all people on unemployment will be receiving an additional $600 per week for four months. Learn more about how this works here: $600 Per Week in Unemployment. Three Examples.

🧡 Florida: Grocery delivery with food stamps: Through amazon and walmart. Starts april 16 in Tallahasee and Tampa. Starts in other areas of the state April 21. How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Updated! New stuff! More stuff! The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🌷 From the IRS: “We are not currently able to process individual paper tax returns due to the COVID-19 outbreak.” If you sent in a paper tax again, you may wish to try again electronically.

Thursday, April 16

Social Security Administration has just released an announcement about stimulus payments. Here’s the highlights:

🧡 People on SSI will be receiving automatic payments! Yay!

🧡 Anyone with children under age 17 still needs to use the IRS site to sign up for the $500 child payment.

🧡 Payments will come either into your bank account, onto Direct Express card or by paper check. Payment is expected “No later than early May”

🧡 Their last press release stated that people who first began receiving Social Security after January, 2020, needed to sign up and would not receive automatic checks. This announcement does not state whether that is also true for SSI recipients.

🧡 If your child is 17 now, but was 16 in December 2019, they may be eligible for the child payment if you file a 2019 tax return.

🧡 Anyone who is over age 16 and declared as a dependent on someone else’s taxes is not eligible for a stimulus payment at this point.

Wednesday, April 15

🌷 NEW TOOL TO TRACK YOUR STIMULUS PAYMENT: If you filed taxes you can find out where and when your check is coming! Get My Payment You can also add a bank account (or check to make sure your check is going to the bank account where you want it to go).

🌷 Update: New tools is not working well for everyone.

🌷 Stimulus checks for people on Social Security: If you have a child under 17, and no one has claimed the child as a dependent on 2019 taxes. you should sign up to get the extra $500 child benefit. If you don’t sign up, you will lose $500 (per child)

🌷 WARNING – Some places on the IRS site makes it sound as if you should not use their sign-up tool if you are on Social Security. Ignore this. Social Security and the IRS both make it clear, that if you have kids, you should sign up. Three Places to Sign Up For Stimulus Checks

🌷 Grocery Delivery That Accepts Food Stamps: CA, AZ, FL, ID – Online grocery ordering is set to begin in these states in April or May. Not clear if it will be for home delivery or pick up only (may depend on area). Stay tuned.

🧡 If your stimulus check goes into a bank account where you owe the bank money, the bank may be able to automatically take your check. Read more.

🧡 Unlike Social Security payments, stimulus checks are not protected from debt collectors. Learn more about How to Deal with Debt & Disability

🧡 Updated all our pages: Directory of Pages: Love In the Time of Corona

🧡 Quick info on who needs to sign up and who gets checks automatically: TEN SECOND GUIDE TO STIMULUS CHECKS

🧡 Quick info on how and where to sign up: Three Places to Sign Up

🧡 Reader’s have been asking about child support. Some people who owe child support will have their check offset and used for the past-due child support. Some will not. They will use the standard IRS rules to decide: Will My Check Be Offset?

🧡 There are no other offsets. If you owe taxes, owe money to Social Security, or owe to other agencies, this has no impact.

Monday, April 13

Where Will I Get My Stimulus Check?

🧡 If you filed taxes or signed up online:

If you included a bank routing number, your check will be sent there.
If not you, will get a paper check in the mail. May take longer
If you did not include a bank routing number when you filed taxes or signed up (or your bank has now changed).

🧡 If you are eligible for automatic payment through Social Security:

Your check will go wherever your Social Security payment goes – bank account or direct express card.

🧡 If you already filed taxes in either 2018 or 2019, then you don’t have to do anything to get a stimulus check. You will be sent a check automatically. Unless you were listed as a dependent. In that case, look here: Am I a Dependent?

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Thursday, April 9

🧡 Look out everyone’s window. New Facebook group: What Do You See From Your Window?

🧡 Walmart in WA. Possibly in NY, NE, OR, IA, AL – Walmart accepts grocery orders online and allows food stamps payments. Their website states this if for pick-up orders only. However, we’ve heard from a reader who has successfully used the service for delivery in Washington. If you try it in your state, please comment below and let us know how it goes.

🧡 Every one on unemployment will be receiving an extra $600 per week. If you are currently receiving $10 per week in unemployment, you will be receiving $610.

🧡 The $600 per week starts now and ends July 31. No matter when you file your application, it will still end on July 31. $600 Per Week in Unemployment. Three Examples.

🧡 A new federal law recently passed. Under the new law many more people will qualify for unemployment. 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

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Wednesday, April 8

🧡 Mixed reports from readers using the TurboTax page to sign up for stimulus checks. Works great for some. Other people are getting error messages. You can also try FreeTaxUSA. Scroll down and click on the button “Stimulus only returns.”

🧡 Unfortunately both the Treasury Department and the White House released incorrect information on this topic last week, and most newspapers repeated it. You can learn more here: Will Everyone on Social Security Automatically Get Checks? Really?

🧡 The fastest way to get your stimulus check is to add in a bank account number when you apply. If you’ve been been turned down when you tried to open a bank account, you might try one of these second chance banks.

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Tuesday, April 7

🧡 Alabama: Amazon now accepts SNAP/EBT and offers online grocery delivery. More states here; How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Many states are raising the amount of food stamps everyone gets for 1-2 montYou do not need to do anything special to apply for this. If you are already on food stamps, it will happen automatically.

🧡 Updated with new ideas for how to stop the bills from piling up: Taking a Small Pause on Bills in the Time of Corona

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Monday, April 6

🧡 Some of us don’t need a pandemic to be poor. Lots of help and creative solutions to make life easier for low-income people with disabilities: How to Be Poor in America

🧡 Intellihelp: Love Delivered. A Facebook group of people around the country reaching out to share items and help to neighbors while respecting social distancing.

🧡 Please stay safe. If you are sure leaving your house is the right choice for you, there are a lot of companies hiring right now: List of nationwide and state-by-state businesses that are hiring during the pandemic.

🧡 Nearly all states have now created special pages for new unemployment rules. Recent new or updated pages in DE, KS, KY, NI, NE: 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

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Sunday, April 5

🧡 Unemployment checks will soon increase by $600 per week. Many states have expanded unemployment benefits to include people who may not normally be eligible. For example, Kentucky now offers benefits to:

barbers
chefs
childcare workers employed by non-profits
contract laborers
freelance workers
hairdressers
hotel housekeeping staff
hotel workers
independent contractors
landscapers
massage therapists
nail technicians
restaurant workers
self-employed
small business owners
substitute teachers

🧡 There’s been ongoing, massive chaos and confusion around who needs to file taxes and how people can get their checks. Our best advice is this: If you are on SSI or have no income, wait until the government figures out a final answer on this. Hopefully it will be soon. Learn more: Will Everyone on Social Security Automatically Get Checks? Really?

🧡 No insurance? Eleven states are opening up enrollment in healthcare marketplace so you can sign up now. If your income is low, you might be eligible for Medicaid. If you have treatment in a hospital related to coronavirus, you might not be charged. CNN Article

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Saturday, April 4

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

🧡 If your job is still available, but you need to stay at home to minimize your risk: For people who are immune-compromised or chronically ill: Talk with your doctor about your situation. If your doctor recommends not returning to your job at this time, you may be eligible for paid leave or unemployment benefits: How Do I Get “Quarantined”?

🧡 All people on unemployment will soon be receiving an additional $600 per week. (A lot!) for four months. Each state will still have to put a policy in place to start sending out this extra payment, but you can file your unemployment application now to get things started. 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🧡 Many readers are reporting difficulties with submitting unemployment applications: long waits, hours on hold on the phone, and website system that crashes. Be persistent. You can still apply.

🧡 Are food stamps increasing in your state? State by state foodstamps tracker

🧡 Several states have now increased SNAP food stamps benefits. If you are already on food stamps, your food stamps might suddenly increase.

🧡 If you are not already on food stamps, and you apply now, you can also qualify. In some states as long as you qualify for $1, you will automatically be given the maximum benefit. The maximum benefits for are $194 (one person), $355 (two people), $505 (three people) and continues to increase.

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Friday, April 3

🧡 Good news for folks on food stamps. Online delivery has come to Nebraska! Available on Amazon for delivery. Walmart allows online payment, but only for pick-up orders, no delivery. Might not be available in all areas of the state. How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Here’s an IRS page you can check for more information and updates on stimulus checks.

🧡 Important: The IRS clearly stated that if you have children under age 17, you must file, or you will not get the $500 child benefit.

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Thursday, April 2

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

🧡 Resources for artists: Local & Community Help in the Time of Corona

🧡 Resources for food help

🧡 Resources for seniors

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Wednesday, April 1

🧡 Some states are changing their food stamps regulations to bring everyone up to maximum benefits. So a person who gets $1 in food stamps will now get $200.

🧡 Michigan and Missouri are offering the additional food benefit. Please comment below if you know of other states that have made this change.

🧡 If you are live with other people and you are on food stamps (or applying) it’s a good idea to make sure you know the rules for household composition and that you are following them. It can make a very big difference on the amount of benefits you receive. How to SNAP: Household Rules

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Tuesday, March 31

🧡 Reader’s tip: If your child is 17 now, but was 16 in December 2019, you may become eligible for the child stimulus payment if you file a 2019 tax return now. The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🧡 If your child is 17 or 18 now, but was 16 in December 2018, you may become eligible for the child payment if you do not file a 2019 tax return, but do file one now for 2018. Will this work? We don’t know the answer to this. Stay tuned. Please comment below if you have more information from reliable sources.

🧡 Many news sources are continuing to print misleading or inaccurate information about the stimulus checks. Even very well respected, trustworthy new sources are doing this. Here’s where you can find links to accurate reliable info:

🧡 In the documents above, it’s important to keep in mind that any reference to “Social Security Disability Income” does not include SSI. That is referring to SSDI only. People on SSI will need to file a tax return.

💗💗💗

Monday, March 30

🧡 Some states are expanding their SNAP food stamps programs to offer more food stamps to more people or to remove work requirements. If you were not eligible for food stamps before, you might look into applying now. Example from Michigan.

🧡 Cort Johnson has published a new article including Advice from ME/CFS Specialists During Coronavirus

🧡 Jenni is on SSI. She tried filing online. Here’s what happened: Everything I Learned While (trying to) File Taxes Online with SSI

🧡 Democrats have published this helpful Q & A About the New Coronavirus Relief Laws. Important sections:

🧡 The Q & A also includes:

Q&A for businesses (pdf)
Q&A for the health care system (pdf)
Q&A for education institutions (pdf)
Q&A for state, local and tribal (pdf)

🧡 Some readers with housing vouchers are reporting that they can’t get move-in inspections, or can’t reach their housing authority at all. A few ways to address this: Rent & Housing Updates

💗💗💗

Sunday, March 29

🧡 Some online grocery delivery services have slowed down or stopped taking new orders. We’ve updated our list: How to Get Food Without Leaving Your House.

🧡 Answers to all your burning questions about stimulus checks: The Disabled Person’s Guide to Stimulus Checks

🧡 A new law has passed that will allow unemployment benefits to gig-workers, freelancers and self-employed individuals. We don’t know how quickly states will start implementing the new law. Check your state for updates. 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🧡 The new law also adds an additional $600 per week to your normal state unemployment checks. Stay tuned.

🧡 If You Do Not Want Your Landlord (or anyone) Entering Your Home, here’s what you can do: Rent & Housing Updates

💗💗💗,

Saturday, March 28

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Evictions are now banned in the entire state of California, as well as many other areas. Foreclosures are not allowed for 60 days for many homeowners: Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

🧡 For parents with disabled children: If your child is in a medicaid home care program, you may now be eligible to be paid as a parent caregiver. Reports from readers that this is now possible in MO, NJ, CO, MN, CA and PA. Plus pending in VA: Home with the Kids

🧡 Big question everyone is asking: Will disabled people get stimulus checks? Who will qualify and how will it work? The answer is here: Will Disabled People Get Stimulus Checks?

🧡 For people on Social Security: Do you need to file taxes to get a stimulus check? Good question. Complicated question. The answer is here: I’m on Social Security. Do I Need to File Taxes?

🧡 If you are listed as as dependent on someone’s taxes, this may change things (not in a good way): Am I a Dependent?

🧡 Where to find help for musicians and artists: Your Community in the Time of Corona

🧡 For people who are immune-compromised or chronically ill and working: Talk with your doctor about your situation. If your doctor recommends not returning to your job as this time, you may be eligible for paid leave or unemployment benefits: How Do I Get “Quarantined”?

🧡 If you are currently applying for disability. Tips for navigating a confusing system in a time of extra confusion: Applying for Disability in the Time of Corona

🧡 Forbes is maintaining a Mortgage Relief Tracker with information on help for homeowners.

🧡 If someone in your home is disabled, you may have special protections from evictions. You can also request accommodations to help resolve other housing issues, such as parking, guests, assistance animals, leases, and paperwork: Sample Disability Accommodation Letters for Housing

🧡 New sample letter for Asking Your Landlord to Lower Your Rent. Plus updated information on how protections from evictions are working in different parts of the country: Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

🧡 Are you looking for The Perfect Cure for Social Distancing? We found it.

🧡 Please comment below with more updates. You can also join our Facebook Page

🧡 Here’s where you can find a directory with all our pages: Directory

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

The Last Moment of Sun

Lori Madiera & 1,098 Days

Rebecca The Artist Nerd Do-Gooder.

Ricky The Geek-Creative-Disabled-Bedridden-Internet-Citizen

Friday, March 27

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Eleven states have opened enrollment under the Affordable Care Act to allow laid-off workers to get subsidized health insurance. Doctors & Therapists in the Time of Corona

🧡 A new law recently passed to grant additional paid sick leave. You may be eligible if you are sick, a family member is sick, or your child’s school closed. Find out if you will qualify: New Paid Leave Laws

🧡 As any homebound person will tell you, a quarantine is a bad time to be without internet. However, if you’ve lost all or most of your income, it’s also a bad time to have a big internet bill: Ten Ways to Reduce (Or Eliminate) Internet Bills

🧡 Where to find help for: Artists, truckers, restaurant workers, immigrants, people with ME. Plus help in your state. Your Community in the Time of Corona

🧡 Wowza. Readers sent in this really good page on How to Get Help in Vermont.

🧡 For parents with disabled children: If your child is in a medicaid home care program, you may now be eligible to be paid as a parent caregiver: Home with the Kids

🧡 Are you looking for The Perfect Cure for Social Distancing? We found it.

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Alan & Bingo the Alter-Ego Basset Hound

Elizabeth The Love Warrior

The Million Missing Shoes

Noa & The MEmis.

Soul & the Rainstick Giraffe.

Thursday, March 26

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Reader’s update: Most companies are now allowing deferred payments with no late fees. Car payments, auto insurance, internet, all outstanding bills: Taking a Small Pause on Bills

🧡 If your phone or internet company is offering unlimited data, you can request to drop down to a lower (cheaper) tier and still get the data you need. Faster and Cheaper Internet

🧡 Expensify is giving $50 for groceries to people on SNAP. Warning: It’s a nine-step process to apply. You have to really want the $50. Groceries with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Overview or paid leave policies. Learn your options: 10 Ways Salary Can Continue When Your Work Stops or Hours Reduce

🧡 Alabama has updated their unemployment fact sheet. Many other states are continuing to release updated information: 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🧡 Lori Madeira wrote this lovely piece on How To Make Friends Online in the Chronic Illness Community

🧡 Many dogs and cats in shelters are lonely and lacking care during coronavirus. Now is a wonderful time to adopt or foster and give them a safe, loving place to stay for a while. The Perfect Cure for Social Distancing

🧡 If you foster a senior pup, Susie’s senior dogs will cover the expense. Some shelters also have “Seniors for Seniors” programs that provide ongoing, free vet care for senior cats and dogs adopted by senior humans. Ask your local shelter.

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Sakara The Dreamer.

Jessica Behind Dark Glasses.

Azalea the Clever One

Lenka and Susan Doing Literally Nothing

Wednesday, March 25

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 The White House and Congress have reached an agreement about the stimulus package.

🧡 Newspapers are reporting that “many” Americans will receive stimulus checks, but it is not yet clear exactly who will be eligible. Unemployment benefits will also be extended. Stay tuned for more details.

🧡 Resources for Artists

🧡 More Resources for Artists

🧡 Plus some for Freelance Artists

🧡 Free meals and support for Truckers

🧡 Resources for Undocumented Communities

🧡 Resources for Restaurants and Restaurant Workers

🧡 Resources for People with ME/CFS

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗

Noa & The MEmis

Glen Asking a Question

Victoria Getting Her Mail

Many of us who are homebound and disabled have run up against an ironic dilemma: You can be too sick to get medical equipment.

Medicare and some other insurance companies require a “face-to-face” assessment with a doctor to prescribe equipment. For example, you need to go to your doctor’s office if you need a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or hospital bed.

How exactly is a homebound person with no mobility equipment supposed to pull off this magic?

Good news, now that the world has turned upside down, and everyone else gets to be us for a moment, we may have a small window of opportunity. Medicare, and many other insurance companies state that they are now treating online visits the same as a face-to-face visit.

Get it while you can! We have no idea how long these new rules will last. Here’s a few resources that might help:

Family Leave

🧡Paid family leave is available in California, Connecticut, D.C., Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island and Washington. Rules for who qualifies varies by state: 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🧡 Unpaid family and medical leave is available in all states. It us unpaid, but it will allow you to keep your job. So your salary will continue… someday.

🧡 Some states have also expanded their unemployment programs to include caring for children during school closings or caring for sick family members. 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave

🧡 Starting April 2nd, new federal laws will start offering paid leave, including leave for caring for children during school closings. It will be available in all states, but not everyone will qualify: Am I Eligible For the New Leave Laws?

Medicare and many Medicaid and other insurance are now covering online doctor and therapy appointments.

🧡 Telehealth visits: This is the first type of visit allowed. It is a full doctor’s appointment, conducted online. Medicare will treat this just like a regular visit and pay the doctor the same rate. This must take place in real time

🧡 Virtual Check ins: This is the second type of visit. A brief communication with your doctor. Medicare can pay for the doctor’s time. It is not possible if you had a visit with this doctor within the last seven days or have an upcoming visit in the next 24 hours. This can take place online or through “synchronous discussion over a telephone or exchange of information through video or image.” We are unclear what this is? Please comment below if you know more.

🧡 You Must Ask – The request for an online visit must be “patient initiated.” You may need to make the request. Though some doctor’s offices are putting out general announcements that they have the service available.

🧡 Established Patients: The new rule also specifies that this is only available to “established patients.” This typically means you can only go to a doctor you have seen at some point in the past. However, the regulations also indicates that they do not plan to check and see which patients are established. If a new doctor cannot bill your insurance because you are not an established patient, you might try asking if you can have a very brief visit with them that you pay for yourself. Then you will be established!

🧡 Right now the changes allowing online doctor visits are temporary. We are hoping this will lead the way for more permanent changes now that all doctor’s offices will have already put systems in place. Online Doctors & Therapists in the Time of Corona

Family First Coronavirus Response Act

A new law has passed to grant additional paid sick leave. You may be eligible if you are sick, a family member is sick, or your child’s school is closed.

The new law will go into effect on April 2nd. We will continue to update this page as more information becomes available.

Is This The Same As the New Coronavirus Unemployment Rules?

No. Many states have been created new regulations for applying for unemployment. That’s a different thing. You can look into both and see what fits your situation. 50 State Guide to Unemployment & Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

Will I Qualify for the New Paid Sick Leave Laws?

Not everyone is eligible for the new sick pay laws. You might be eligible if you meet these three criteria:

1. You Are In One of These Situations

You have been diagnosed or are waiting for testing or are quarantined for coronavirus or
You are caring for a family member who has been diagnosed or is waiting for testing or are quarantined for coronavirus or
You’re caring for a child while their school is closed

2. You Have the Right Kind of Employer

Not all employers are required to offer this benefit. You may be eligible if:

Your employer has less than 500 employees or
You work for the government
Free lance and self-employed my be eligible

3. You Work The Right Amount

You must have been employed with your employer for at least 30 days.
Part time workers are eligible

Are there any exceptions?

As a matter of fact, there are:

Some employers with less then 50 employees may request not to follow these rules
Some employers with more than 500 employees are voluntarily choosing to offer similar sick leave, even though not required by law

How much leave can I get?

Up to two weeks for yourself or caring for family
Up to twelve weeks if your child’s school is closed

Can My Employer Afford This?

Employers may be eligible for tax reimbursements for your sick pay.

Reading List

The law just passed. We will continue to update this page as more information becomes available. More details about this law:

Forbes: How to Qualify for Paid Leave for Coronavirus
National Law Review: Family First Response Act Becomes a Law
Time: Paid Leave Benefits – But Millions Won’t Be Eligible

Ten Ways to Reduce (or eliminate) Your Internet Bills.

As any homebound person will tell you, a quarantine is a bad time to be without internet. However, if you’ve lost all or most of your income, it’s also a bad time to have a big internet bill.

Some people are solving this problem by deferring or pausing their internet payments for the next few months. That is sort of a solution, but not a particularly good one, since it will just leave you in debt.

If you are unable to pay your internet bill, here’s some better ideas that might actually solve the problem, instead of just delaying it:

One: Lower Your Bill By Plan Dropping

Some phone and internet companies are offering increased or unlimited data during Coronavirus. Call and ask if you can drop to a lower (cheaper) plan that still gives you the data you need. Warning: Please double check to see if there are any fees for changing plans.

Two: Eliminate Your Bill with Free Hot Spots

Some companies are offering free wi-fi hotspots to everyone. Check to see if you can get a signal for a free wi-fi hot spot in your home. You may be able to cancel your internet completely. Warning: Please double check to see if there are any fees for canceling plans.

How many companies are offering free wi-fi hotspots and where are they? We don’t know, here’s a list of 390 Phone and Internet Companies who have signed a pledge including “open Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them.” Please comment below if you learn more.

Three: Sign Up for Low Income Internet

For families, seniors, people with disabilities and others who are low income: several companies offer excellent low income internet programs. The cost is typically $10 per month. Sign up process is very simple: Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet

Four: If You are Already a Customer

Some of our readers ran into the problem that they couldn’t enroll in low income internet (even though they were in fact low income) because they were already a customer. If you have run into this problem, here’s some smart ideas from some of our readers: Low Income Internet & the 90 Days.

Five: If You Don’t Meet the Criteria

If you don’t qualify for low income internet because you don’t meet the criteria, check again. Internet Essential program significantly broadened their program in fall 2019. Now a lot more people qualify. Good timing! Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet

Six: If You Still Don’t Meet the Criteria

One common criteria is eligibility for Medicaid, Medi-cal or food stamps.

Here’s a little something you might not know: Even if you were not eligible yesterday, you might be eligible today. Many programs look at monthly income, not yearly income. If your income suddenly dropped or disappeared this month, you might become momentarily eligible for food stamps or Medicaid.

Obviously, the really great part would be food and health care (the $10 internet is just a bonus). When all this mess is over and your income returns (we hope), you can drop back off these things, but they may be here when you need them now.

Seven: Make Your Own Hotspot

Some people cancel their internet services, and instead get unlimited data on their cellphones. Then they use their cellphones as a hot spot to get internet on their laptops and other devices.

What does this mean and how do you do it? We don’t know and we don’t know… but some companies are now lifting data restrictions on cell phone plans, so now might be a great time to learn more: How to Turn Your Phone Into a Wi-Fi Hotspot

Eight: Borrow a Hotspot

See if Your Library Has Mobile Hotspot Lending – Some libraries will loan you free internet that you can use at home on your phone. Learn more about this here: Borrowing the Internet.

Nine: Ask a Friend to Share

If you have a friend with internet service (even if they live really far away), as long as you can get a signal to their provider, you may be able to ask them to share their internet with you while you are going through a rough patch.

Be sure to let your friend know that they may now be eligible for unlimited or much larger data and usage. It may cost your friend $0 to help you out.

Ten: Pause Payments

This last way is not as helpful, because it will just put you in debt. However, if 1-9 are not possible, and you are in a pinch:

Many companies are allowing you to pause payments for 30-90 days with no late fees and no disconnections. This may be called “payment deferment”. You will still owe the bill, you’ll just have more time to pay. Call and ask. Companies that have agreed: 390 Phone and Internet Companies

For ME and CFS Friends.

For friends with ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome”):

🧡 #MEAction has a wonderful page that is continually updated: COVID 19 Resources for People with ME

🧡 Colleen Steckel and ME International have created this great page that is continually updated: Coronavirus and #MyalgicE

🧡 #MEAction has also published this great Hospital Form and Hospital Checklist

🧡 They run all kinds of events and discussions you can participate in from home: join a call

🧡 Cort Johnson and Health Rising have published a great series of articles on Coronavirus: 8 Reasons People with ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia Should Be Careful, How to Stop an Epidemic, Why You Should Trust No One, and More

🧡 Where to find support, help and resources for people with ME/CFS: ME in the Time of Coronavirus

New Unemployment Policies.

🧡 New Unemployment Policies: Previously, most states had strict requirements about who was eligible for unemployment benefits. Some states have changed this. For example, in some states you may now be eligible if:

You are still working, but your hours reduce
You work is part time
Your employer has temporarily shut down
You are caring for a sick family member
Your child’s school has closed
You are in quarantine
Your employer has sent you home

🧡 New Work Search Requirements: Previously, most states required that you actively search for work and be available for work to receive unemployment. Some states are no longer requiring this.

🧡 New Wait Period Rules: Previously, most states had a seven day wait period before unemployment benefits could be claimed. Many states have now removed this requirement.

🧡 Tip for Applications: Some states have indicated to make sure that your unemployment application clearly states that you are applying for a reason related to the current situation with coronavirus or COVID-19. This way your application will be processed with the new rules.

🧡 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

Tuesday, March 24.

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Some areas are making it faster and easier to apply for help with utility bills. Check your local social services department or Liheap program. Here’s an example of changes from Seattle.

🧡 MillionAcres has published a new, updated list of Cities and States that have Paused Evictions.

🧡 Local groups that can provide assistance if you are at risk for eviction: Justshelter.org.

🧡 Some states are updating their policies to allow Medicaid to pay for online visits with doctors and therapists. Here’s an example from North Carolina.

🧡 Reader’s tip: If you are calling creditors and asking to stop or pause payments, be sure to mention that the reason is related to coronavirus, so you will be eligible for the new rules.

🧡 Are you looking for The Perfect Cure for Social Distancing? We found it.

🧡 Please comment below if you have new news or updates. We’ve also created a Facebook page. Come join in: Facebook Page: Love & Discounts in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 Here’s where you can find a directory with all our pages: Directory: Love & Discounts in the Time of Coronavirus

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Jessica Behind Dark Glasses.

Monday, March 23.

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Some banks are allowing late payments, removing late fees, removing penalties for early withdrawals, or helping in other ways: List of Banks That are Helping

🧡Financial planners are offering free advice. Free phone consultations from the XY Planning Network (scroll down to see list of planners). Also free consultations from The Financial Planning Association

🧡 New Mexico and North Carolina have new guidance on their unemployment benefits. Ohio and Oregon have made more changes and updates.

🧡 Nearly all states have released new policies or guidance for unemployment and paid leave, and many people who were not eligible before will be eligible now: 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 You don’t have to be completely off work to qualify for unemployment benefits. In most states, you can qualify if your hours are reduced.

🧡 We’ve now managed to find grocery delivery that accepts food stamps in at least some areas of nearly every state except Alaska and Hawaii. How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Please comment below if you have new news or updates. We’ve also created a Facebook page. Come join in: Facebook Page: Love & Discounts in the Time of Coronavirus

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Jessica Behind Dark Glasses.

Sunday, March 22.

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Georgia has passed some confusing new unemployment policies requiring employers to file partial claims. Instead of simply explaining the new rules, Georgia made a Youtube video: Unemployment during COVID 19

🧡 Pandemics are a sucky time to be homeless. Here’s a few better ideas: Rent & Housing in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 After several emails back and forth with Schwan’s…. they still won’t tell us exactly where they deliver to or where they accept SNAP. But we did get a few clues: Where in the World Does Schwan’s Deliver?

🧡 Reader’s report that some food banks are adding delivery services. Food banks offer free groceries to people in need. Find a Food Bank in Your Area

🧡 Many food co-ops are creating special hours where elderly and immune-compromised members can shop without crowds and stress. Food Co-ops offer healthy foods and wonderful communities: Find a Food Co-op in Your Area.

🧡 Twelve places you can order groceries online: How to Get Food Without Leaving Your House.

🧡 Some stores won’t deliver, but will let you order online and they do all the shopping, you just pick up. If you have SNAP can’t do the pick up yourself, you can contact your SNAP worker and ask to add someone as an authorized shopper on your card.

🧡 390 Phone and Internet Companies have agreed to: Not disconnect service if you can’t pay your bill (you’ll still owe the money though). They’ve also agreed to not charge late fees and open their wi-fi hotspots to everyone

🧡 There are also some ways you may be able to get free internet and not owe anything: Faster and Cheaper Internet During Coronavirus

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Sakara The Dreamer

12 copy

🧡 390 Companies Took a Pledge. 390 Phone and Internet companies have agreed to remove all late fees plus some are keeping open wi-fi hotspots to everyone..

🧡 Cancel your internet? If you are unable to pay your bill, instead of delaying payment, you could look into canceling your service. It might be worth checking to see if you can get a signal for free internet in your home. The companies did not make it clear if these free hot spots are new or the same as what was before.

🧡 Warning: Be aware that some companies have a fee for canceling a contract.

🧡 Low Income Internet: Many areas offer special programs for people who are disabled, seniors, children and others who are low income. Low Income Internet.

🧡 That’s the good news. Now the bad news: May of our disabled and homebound friends have run into the problem of not being able to sign up, because they were already current customers, and would be required to stop all service for 90 days. When you are homebound, 90 days without internet is an eternity.

🧡 If you are in this situation, now might be a time to look into whether you can internet through a wi-fi hotspot for 90 days. Learn more about: Low Income Internet & The 90 Day Waiting Period.

🧡 Learn more: Faster and Cheaper Internet During Coronavirus

_I need help in my home_

New Paid Leave Law.

A new law has passed to grant paid sick leave for people who are ill, quarantined, caring for family, or have children with school closings. The law will go into effect on April 2nd. We will continue to update this page with news about the new law. Not everyone will be eligible: Will I Be Eligible For the New Paid Leave Laws?

New Unemployment Policies:

Previously, most states had strict requirements about who was eligible for unemployment benefits. Many states have changed this. For example, you may now be eligible even if:

You are still working, but your hours reduce
You work is part time
Your employer has temporarily shut down
You are caring for a sick family member
Your child’s school has closed
You are in quarantine
Your employer has sent you home
You quit (under some circumstances)

Check for new policies in your state: 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

New Work Search Requirements:

Previously, all states required that you actively search for work and be available for work to receive unemployment. Some states are no longer requiring this.

Old Unemployment Policies

If your state does not have new policies yet, or if the new policies don’t cover your situation, you may still be eligible under the old policies. Unemployment may be available if you are impacted by quarantines, lay offs, business closings, special circumstances, or reduced work. Paid Unemployment may be available if you:

Got laid off or downsized
Quit (sometimes)
Got fired (sometimes)
Reduced work hours (sometimes)
Check your state: Old Policies for Unemployment
Check your state: Where to Apply
Unemployment & Quitting for Good Cause

Unpaid Family and Medical Leave

Under federal rules, unpaid family and medical leave may be available if:

You have a serious health condition or
You are caring for a family member
Only for employers with 50 or more employees
Family and Medical Leave
Coronavirus & Unpaid Leave
Who is eligible

Worker’s Compensation:

You may be eligible for paid worker’s compensation if:

You contract coronavirus due to exposure at your workplace
You contract coronavirus in some way related to your work
In some states, you may be eligible if you were exposed to coronavirus at work, and were directed to self-quarantine by your employer or a public health official
Where to file for Worker’s Compensation

Disability Accommodations

Reasonable Accommodations such as unpaid leave, different schedule, work at home, change in work tasks, or other accommodations may be possible if:

Your doctor feels you meet the ADA Definition of Disability
Your request is needed because of your disability
Your request is reasonable and properly documented
You do not need to be on disability benefits to qualify
Pro tip: If you’ve asked in the past and were told it’s not possible, feel free to ignore this. Once your request is properly documented, the answer may magically change: Sample Letters Requesting Accommodation

Short or Long Term Disability

Paid short or long term disability may be available if:

Your employer offers disability insurance as a job benefit
Check with the human resources department at your job
Criteria vary. Request a copy of your policy.
If your disability may be ongoing or long term: Important to Read if Your Employer Offers Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability

Social security disability may be available is:

You have an illness or impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months
Your condition is considered severe
You are not working or working part time and earning under the limit
You meet certain other requirements
Learn more: Am I Eligible to Apply?
“Someone Said I’m Not Eligible”

Please comment below if you learn new rules or new news in your state.

Saturday, March 21.

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

We’ve been getting in a lot of news and updates. Sadly, most of it is “proposed” programs that don’t actually exist yet or are only available in a very limited way.

We are doing our best to keep you posted when things become available. Stay tuned and please share updates in the comments below. Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 New programs that will help protect you if you stop being able to pay your bills. Rent. Mortgage. Utilities. Taxes. Phone. Internet. Student loans. Bank fees. Taking a Small Pause on Bills in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 Ray and his wife were able to save more than a thousand dollars a month with their mission of “having more by paying less.” Ray is putting together some fantastic tips for making it through the lean times. Men on a Budget in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 Updates from Ray: “I was able to use the coupons for GoodRX and the Retail Me Not RX Saver programs to score medications for less. Some were 60% savings. Others were up to 90% off.” How to Be Broke & Medicated

🧡 Call or text for support:

Call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Text HOME to 741-741 for Crisis Text Line
Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66-746 for the Disaster Distress Hotline
Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678 or click here to chat with The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ youth)
Call 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22-522 to connect with The National Domestic Violence Hotline.

🧡 What To Do All Day While Home With The Kids?

This blog was created by people with ME/CFS. During your time of quarantine, please remember your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Noa & The MEmis

Many doctors offices are now offering online visits, and some insurance is treating this the same as a face-to-face visit. This is good news for our homebound or bedridden friends who may have gone months or years with no access to medical care.

It will be interesting to see if any doctors will now be able and willing to do specialized testing online. One that springs to mind is neuropsychological testing, which doesn’t require any special equipment.

Neuropsychological testing is the number one type of testing our readers said they found most helpful when applying for disability with ME, CFS, Lyme, Mental health issues, Fibromyalgia, Mold and Chemical injuries, and related conditions. Neuropsychological Testing While Applying for Disability

Learn more about Online Doctors & Therapists in the Time of Corona.

Men on a Budget in the Time of Corona.

by Ray Taylor Tetreault

After my wife became disabled in 2006, we had to really look at our budget to identify the nickel and dime splurges that did not really give the best bang for the buck.

My wife and I have been able to save $1200 a month… $10 here and $100 there with the attitude: “if you can’t have the best of everything, make the best of everything that you have.”

Ya know, we really didn’t cut out as much as we cut back and swapped for more meaningful purposes. We were basically wasting that money on behaviors that were hurting us more than we knew.

Dining on a Dime

I earn nothing from my website. It’s for men on a budget (and those who love us). My mission is to help people have more by paying less. I just published this article on Dining on a Dime Deals

Streaming from Sling

New offer during coronavirus: Sling TV has just released Free Streaming for People Stuck at Home.

Online Libraries

Library offerings and digital collections will change by library systems, but here are some apps and tools to look for at yours: I Love My Libraries

Free TV and Movie Apps

We didn’t really watch $100 a month worth of cable. So now we are paying for internet only and streaming more TV and movies. We use that $100 each month for things that matter more: Free TV and Move Sites

Food For Thought

Looking to make better use of ingredients you have on hand or looking for fewer ingredient, yet healthier recipes? SuperCook is Super Cool.

Don’t Discount the Discount

Last September I registered for community college classes as part of our Encore60 program. Free classes that I can audit.

Now I can whip out medicare card or student ID card to get the best of the best. I am not only old as dirt for senior discounts, but I also qualify for student discounts, many of which aren’t available for seniors.

While classes may not be in session now, the application processes may still be operational. See what options for schooling may be available to you in your area for free or low-cost education. I can prove one thing… we’re never too old to learn new tricks.

Budgeting in The Time of Corona

While store inventories are dwindling, there will be a lot of people dining on toilet tissue in the months ahead. The grocery industry will continue to replenish the store’s shelves with the perishables that are being snapped up like a blizzard.

Now is the time for us to use our money as wisely as possible across our budgets. Let’s use time to look at the visible and invisible ways to save in an effort to focus on not only the values of our money but the values of our lives.

Friday, March 20.

Dear New Friends in the Time of Corona,

We’ve been getting in a lot of news and updates. Sadly, most of it is “proposed” programs that don’t actually exist yet or are only available in a very limited way. Stay tuned. We are doing our best to keep you posted when things become available.

Here’s the newest news right now:

🧡 Pandemics are a sucky time to be homeless. Augrented created a list of Cities & States That Won’t Allow Evictions

🧡 Some nice companies are helping out college kids with car rentals and self-storage. Who’s helping college kids?

🧡 Some banks are pitching in by allowing late payments, removing late fees, waiving penalties for early withdrawals, and making other small changes. Forbes List of Banks That are Helping

🧡 A new law has passed to grant paid sick leaver for people who are ill, quarantined, caring for family, or have children with school closings. The law will go into effect on April 2nd. Not everyone will be eligible: Will I Be Eligible For the New Coronavirus Paid Sick Leave Laws?

🧡 We’ve gotten reports that Schwan’s is, in fact, accepting food stamps for home grocery delivery. But…. we can’t figure out what states this is available in. We’ve written to Schwan’s and while they certainly have better things to do write now, hopefully someone will answer someday. Please comment below if you know more.

🧡 Home with the kids because of school closings? Financial and emotional resources to get you through the lean times: Home with the Kids in the Time of Corona

🧡 Help for Rent & Housing in the Time of Corona

🧡 We are happy to report that you might now be able to meet with a doctor or therapist online. This is certainly good news for many of homebound and bedridden folks who have had no way to get to a doctor. Sometimes for years. Online Doctors & Therapists in the Time of Corona

🧡 Expensify is giving $50 for groceries to people on SNAP. Warning: It’s a nine-step process to apply. You have to really want the $50. Scroll down on this page

🧡 We’ve created a Facebook page. Come join in: Facebook Page: Love & Discounts in the Time of Coronavirus

This blog was created by people with ME/CFS (Sometimes called “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome”). Being homebound is nothing new to us. Many of us have been homebound or bedridden for five, or ten, or twenty years.

As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about your homebound friends.

💗💗💗,

Sakara The Dreamer

Take a Small Pause on Some Bills.

Some rules and regs that will give you a bit more time to pay. You’ll still owe the money, but late fees and penalties may be removed:

🧡 Rent: If you stop being able to pay your rent, here’s a list of Cities & States That Won’t Allow Evictions

🧡 Student Loans: There are a variety of ways you might be able to pause (or maybe even permanently eliminate) student loans: Student Loans in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 Utilities: If you stop being able to pay your utilities, here’s guide to Utility Companies that Will Not Disconnect You

🧡 Internet & Phone: If you stop being able to pay your internet or phone: Internet & Phone Companies that Will Not Disconnect You

🧡 Mortgage: If you can’t pay your mortgage, you might be protected from eviction until the end of April. IHeartBudget Financial Resources

🧡 Taxes: You get an extra 90 days to pay your taxes. You still have to file on time. File now, pay later. IHeartBudget Financial Resources

🧡 Banks: Some banks are allowing late payments and removing late fees: Forbes List of Banks That are Helping

🧡 New York: If you owe money to New York State, you’ve got a bit more time to pay (State student loans and some kinds of medical debt)

Schwan’s Grocery Delivery With SNAP

We received some new news: Schwan’s does deliver and does accepts food stamps.

The Schwan’s website states that they accept food stamps, and we’ve heard from a reader in Texas who did, in fact, use her food stamps card just yesterday for a home delivery. So, we know it’s possible.

The problem is, where? Schwan’s website does not make this clear at all. We tried writing Schwan’s to ask where they deliver, but so far their response has not given us any better clues. Here’s our best understanding:

Where Does Schwan’s Deliver?

If you visit the Schwan’s Website, there is a place where you can type in your zipcode and see what it says for your area. It will show you one of these results:

Result # 1 – Your area has delivery from both “Schwan’s Delivery” and “UPS” – Yes, we think they are likely accepts food stamps?

Result # 2 – Your area has delivery from “UPS” only. No, we don’t think they will accept food stamps?

Result # 3 – Areas with no delivery. This option is obviously out.

Test Run

We tested out a few popular zip codes. We were able to find locations with food stamp home delivery in at least one spot in every state except Alaska, Alabama, and Hawaii. However, we did not test every state.

How to Place Your Order

Instructions from the website for placing an order using food stamps:

“Place your order online and choose “deliver to my door.” When your Route Sales Representative delivers your order, you need to present your EBT card to him or her. EBT is only available for home delivery orders. You cannot place a mail order and pay via EBT.”

Update from Amber

We just heard from a reader who used to work at Schwan’s! She shared some helpful tips.

“I worked for Schwan’s many years ago. but it doesn’t look like anything has changed much. Schwan’s is in every state, but some areas don’t get route driver deliveries. If a driver delivers to your area, they do let you pay via SNAP, but there is are complicating factors:

“You must have a credit/debit card to place the order online, but it won’t be charged at that time. You have to present your SNAP card to the route driver at the door when they deliver. If you’re not available when the driver shows up, your credit card will get charged.

“To protect route drivers, they’ve already moved to no-contact deliveries as much as possible, but this type of delivery might be an exception. Obviously this contact could be a health concern for you as well, so you’ll have to judge your own risk.

“Good luck & good health!”

Learn More?

Please comment below and share your experiences with using Schwan’s in your area.

Grocery Pick Up With SNAP.

If you can’t find a store that delivers online and accepts food stamps, here’s another option:

Some stores will allow you to place your order online. They will do the shopping for you and have your groceries ready at the register (or sometimes they will bring them to the car).

Tips from Reader:

🌷 When you order online, if there is no option to pay with food stamps, select “pay at store” or “pay in cash” or “pay at pick up.”

🌷 For some stores, you may need to enter a credit card or debit card, and they can place a hold on the card without actually charging it.

🌷 When you get to the store, pay with EBT. Some places can even bring the EBT reader out to the car if you are unable to go in.

🌷 It’s a good idea to contact your local store first to make sure this will go smoothly.

🌷 Reader’s report they have done this successfully at many different stores, including: Giant Eagle, Shoprite, Harris Teeter, and Walmart

🌷 Some readers have also had success by calling or writing small, local stores and explaining their situation.

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New News for Internet.

A few kindhearted companies are now offering faster and cheaper internet during Coronavirus.

Some of our readers who qualified for discounted internet ran into problems with having a ninety day waiting period. Here’s a few bright ideas for how they handled it: Internet Essentials & The 90 Days.

AT&T

Lifting overage fees and removing internet data caps
This is available for all home broadband internet users
AT&T also has a $10 internet program for low income people: Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet

Internet Essentials

Free internet for 60 days to new customers
This program is for people who are low income and live in an area covered by Comcast or Xfinity.
After 60 days, it is $10/month.
If you have not yet signed up for Internet Essentials, and would like to, there are a few things you might like to know: Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet
They have also increased their speed.
Internet Essentials may not be available to existing Comcast customers, but there are a few workarounds for existing customers.

Spectrum/Charter

Free internet for 60 days to K-12 and college students.
This program is available to new customers who don’t already have Charter or Spectrum broadband.
After 60 days, it returns to full price. The press release does not indicate whether new customers will be locked into paying a subscription for the rest of the year.
Spectrum also has a $10 internet program for low income people. However, it is not as inclusive as the programs by Comcast or AT&T and it is only available to a limited amount of people. Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet
The low income program also is may not be available to existing customers, but there are a few workarounds for existing customers.

No Disconnections

If you lose your income during Coronavirus, at least you won’t sit in the cold and dark. Nicole from Lowincomerelief.com created this national guide to Utility Companies that Will Not Disconnect You
Plus this one for Internet & Phone Companies that Will Not Disconnect You

Other Programs

Some smaller companies also offer low income internet. Learn more: Where and How to Apply for Low Income Internet

New News for Housing.

Pandemics are a sucky time to be homeless. Augrented created a list of Cities & States That Won’t Allow Evictions

If you can’t pay your mortgage, some homeowners will be protected from foreclosure until the end of April. IHeartBudget Financial Resources

If you rent from a landlord covered under mortgage protection, you might also be protected from eviction until the end of April. IHeartBudget Financial Resources

If you are in a pinch: How Can I Get Emergency or Immediate Housing?

For HUD, USDA, Vouchers, or Public Housing:

If you lose income during Coronavirus, here’s how you can Lower Your Rent if Your Income Drops

Even if your income stays the same, there are a lot of other Policies that can Lower Your Rent.

Some public housing authorities have announced that they are suspending all evictions and terminations. However, if you have a voucher with a private landlord, this may not apply to you.

If you don’t live in subsidized housing, but you still have dreams of a someday future: Section 8 Guide for the Disabled and Plucky

Tips for Getting Groceries.

Twelve places you can order groceries online: How to Get Food Without Leaving Your House.

Sadly, many of those places don’t accept SNAP food stamps. Happily, these places do: How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

If you are disabled, here’s a list of good tips and smart ideas from other homebound and bedridden friends: How to Shop Without Standing Up

Imperfect foods sells ugly but lovable (and affordable) produce. They also have other groceries. They are in 32 states. Which areas are covered? Where they deliver. How to order: Sign up here.

Imperfect Foods does not accept food stamps but…. does give a 33% discount to people who receive SNAP, EBT, CalFresh or food stamps. Sign up for the reduced price: Apply here to join the program

If you are disabled and running out of food by the end of the month: How to Get Enough Food Stamps to Actually Eat

Applying for Unemployment

The federal government has released new rules for unemployment during the time of coronavirus. However, many states have not yet released information on how the new rules will work in that state. Plus, some have released rules that are vague or do not cover all scenarios.

If you are running into this problem, here’s a tip that might help:

Many states do not mention this on their websites, but they actually will allow you to collect unemployment if you quit or were fired under certain circumstances.

It’s common for states to have little-known policies that will allow someone to collect unemployment if they are forced to stop working due to “dangerous or unsafe working conditions” or a “compelling personal reason.” However, that person must still be “able and available to work” for other jobs.

Is there some reason why your particular job is dangerous? For example, does your job require frequent contact with the public? Are you high risk because of previous health conditions? You may wish to talk with your doctor about whether your particular job is unsafe for you. Some doctors are now doing online visits, and some insurance may pay for this.

If your particular job places you in danger, you may be able to try applying for unemployment benefits this way. It may help a lot if you have a letter from your doctor stating this.

Will this get approved? We don’t know. There is certainly no harm in trying. Please comment below and report back if you learn more.

Here’s where you can learn more about the policies in your state: 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

Thursday, March 19

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

Well, there’s an awful lot of new news coming out today! Sadly, most of it is “proposed” programs that don’t actually exist yet. Stay tuned. We will keep you posted when things become available. Newest news:

🧡 New info on how to pay student loans when your income drops. Important updates and bright ideas: Student Loans in the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 The good people of Montana have released new rules to help people who lose their jobs, stay home, or have hours reduced during coronavirus. There are now special policies in AL, CA, MO, MI, MT, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, WA, WI. 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

🧡 The United Way just announced a COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund. No details yet on exactly when or where help will be offered, but you can check for updates in your local community: 211 network.

This blog was created by people with ME. During your time of quarantine, please remember your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

The Million Missing Shoes

Home with the Kids?

Home with the kids? Nicole has put together this good list of free educational resources you can use online.

A few states are also allowing people to collect unemployment benefits due to caring for children during school closings. California, Michigan and Washington specifically state “school closing” as a valid reason.

Other states don’t reference school closings, but if you research the policies, you may discover that somewhere in them is slightly vague language about leaving your job for a “compelling personal reason.” Doesn’t hurt to try! Some states also allow partial unemployment if your hours are reduced.

Here’s where you can find the policies for your state. 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

If you are disabled, you may be able to request a disability accommodation to work from home or change your schedule. You do not need to be on disability. Your request must be based on your medical needs in the workplace (not your need to care for your children), but if it is something you have needed anyway, now could be a good time to ask.

Pro tip: If you’ve asked in the past and were told it’s not possible, feel free to ignore this. Once your request is properly documented, the answer may magically change: Sample Letter Requesting a Disability Accommodation

In addition, if your employer offers paid sick leave, some employers and insurance polices are allowing people to use their paid sick days if they have to care for their kids during school closings.

Many school districts are allowing families to pick up school lunches while kids are out of school. Check with your school district to see if this is possible.

Wednesday, March 18

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

We are happy to report that you might now be able to meet with a doctor or therapist online. This is good news for many of us homebound folks who have had no way to get to a doctor. Sometimes for years.

Medicare will pay for online visits. We don’t know if Medicaid and other insurance will also pay for this now. Stay tuned and comment below if you find out more. Medicare fact sheet on telemedicine.

Check with your doctor or with other practitioners in your area to see if they are able and willing to do online visits with you. You may even be able to see someone located really far away. Worth asking!

There’s also a good directory of therapists at Psychology Today – Find a Therapist. Some listings specifically say that they take online appointments, but even if they don’t, they might now!

Here’s a little list of beloved and helpful doctors recommended by our readers who are disabled with ME, CFS, and related conditions. What Doctor Was the Most Helpful?

More news and updates this morning:

🧡 Good news for Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Grocery delivery with SNAP/EBT may now be available in your area.

🧡 Grocery delivery is now available in select areas of AL, AZ, CT, DE, IA, MD, NY, NJ, NY, OR, PA, WA, WI. How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

🧡 Missouri and Pennsylvania have mildly updated their unemployment policies. There are now special policies in AL, CA, MO, MI, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, WA, WI. 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

This blog was created by people with ME. During your time of quarantine, please remember your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Jessica Behind Dark Glasses

Tuesday, March 17

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

On Friday, there was a new announcement that interest would stop on student loans. Apparently, this change is not as exciting as it sounds. It doesn’t apply to all loans and doesn’t change what you pay each month (which is probably what you care about!).

If you have student loans, here’s a few more slightly more exciting ideas:

🧡 A disability discharge can make all your loans disappear. Permanently. How to Apply for a Disability Discharge

🧡 Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be on disability to qualify for a disability discharge. You do need to a doctor’s form. Gloria kindly shared what her doctor wrote: Sample Doctor’s Form for Disability Discharge

🧡 Another option, for everyone (not just disabled people). If you are low income and have federal loans, you may be able to sign up for income based repayment. It’s easy and it works. If income is low enough, your monthly bill will be $0. How to Sign Up for Income Based Repayment

🧡 Some people think they aren’t eligible for any of the above if their Federal loans are in default. Happily, not true. You may have options if your loans are in default.

🧡 Private student loans are trickier, but some things are still possible: Options for Private Student Loans

🧡 If your loans are not discharged, Forbes suggests that you can put your student loan into forbearance during this time while the interest is waived.

🧡 More work and more trouble, and not guaranteed to work, but just so you know, sometimes it is possible: How to Eliminate Loans Through Bankruptcy

🧡 Some people fear they will get a huge tax bill if their loans are discharged. Somewhat happily, only sometimes true. There are no longer taxes on disability discharges, but other kinds of discharges may still have them: How to Escape Tax Problems from Student Loan Discharges

On the unemployment front: Alabama just released new rules to give support to workers who lose their jobs or reduce their hours. There are now special policies in CA, OH, OR, WA. NJ, NY, WI, RI and MI. Details are included here: 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

This blog was created by people with ME/CFS. Being homebound is nothing new to us.

Many of us have been homebound or bedridden for five, or ten, or twenty years. During your time of quarantine, please remember your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Rebecca The Artist Nerd Do-Gooder

Monday, March 16

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

The good people of Michigan just released new rules to give support to workers who lose their jobs or reduce their hours. Details are included here: 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

If you lose your income during Coronavirus, at least you won’t sit in the cold and dark. Nicole from Lowincomerelief.com created this national guide to Utility Companies that Will Not Disconnect You

Plus this one for Internet & Phone Companies that Will Not Disconnect You

This blog was created by people with ME. During your time of quarantine, please remember your homebound friends. You may be able to go back out someday, but we may never be able to.

💗💗💗,

Noa & The MEmis

Sunday, March 15

Good Morning New Friends in the Time of Corona,

A number of groundbreaking states have been the first to create new policies to help people who lose or reduce their jobs during this time: CA, OH, OR, WA. NJ, NY, WI, RI. 50 State Guide to Paid Leave In the Time of Coronavirus

If you lose income during Coronavirus, and you live in HUD, USDA, Vouchers or Public Housing, here’s how you can Lower Your Rent if Your Income Drops

If you don’t live in any of these, but you still have dreams of a someday future: Section 8 Guide for the Disabled and Plucky

This blog was created by people with ME. 25% of people with ME are homebound, bedbound or wheelchairbound. We know what it’s like to stay inside. Hope you find something here that helps.

💗💗💗,

The Missing Years

Saturday, March 14

A few kindhearted companies are now offering Faster and Cheaper Internet In the Time of Coronavirus

This blog was created by people with ME/CFS (Sometimes called “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome”). Being homebound is nothing new to us.

Many of us have been homebound or bedridden for five, or ten, or twenty years. As you go about your day, please take a moment to think about us.

💗💗💗,

Soul & the Rain Stick Giraffe

Friday, March 13

A day many disabled and homebound people have been eagerly awaiting forever, is finally here: Home delivery for SNAP has begun.

It is slowly rolling out across the country and is now available in select areas of NY, WA, OR, MD, NJ, NY, WI, AL, and AZ. Iowa got added two days ago. How to Get Groceries Delivered with SNAP/EBT

If you are disabled and running out of food by the end of the month: How to Get Enough Food Stamps to Actually Eat

This blog was created by people with ME. We want you to stay safe. And we know the transition is hard and scary, because we’ve been there. We hope something here will help.

💗💗💗,

Sakara The Dreamer.

Jessica Behind Dark Glasses.

Kaeley Singing from Pillows

Alan & Bingo the Alter-Ego Basset Hound

Rebecca The Artist Nerd Do-Gooder.

Noa & The MEmis.

Elizabeth The Love Warrior

The Last Moment of Sun

Lori Madiera & 1,098 Days

Ricky The Geek-Creative-Disabled-Bedridden-Internet-Citizen

The Squares of Years.

Vicki & Miss Diagnoses

Jasmine the Poet

Soul & the Rainstick Giraffe.

Laura’s Pen

Yulia the Perplexed

Cort the Creator

The Million Missing Shoes

Colleen and The Toybox

Jamesia The Good Friend

The #MEAction Team

Basil & the Delphinium Maneuver

Victoria Getting Her Mail

Azalea the Clever One

Glen Asking a Question

Lenka and Susan Doing Literally Nothing

Art by Robin Mead

22 thoughts on “Today’s Updates In The Time of Corona”

Anonymous April 19, 20206:09 pm Reply

Just spoke with my bank. They received alot of stimulus deposits Wednesday, but zero deposits for people on any type of social security.

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Anonymous April 19, 20206:07 pm Reply

Thank you for the latest updates.They are helpful and explained well. I receive SSDI and considered a non-filer. Hopefully I will receive my stimulus deposit soon. I bank with Chase.

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Sherry April 17, 20207:40 pm Reply

Thanks for all of the help. I would recommend putting the brand new announcements in bold as there appear to be the same announcements from previous days in the “current daily announcements”. It would help, but thank you so much for all of the hard work cause it really really helps!!!!!!!!!

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Anonymous April 17, 20207:37 pm Reply

Hi. Thanks for all of the help. I would recommend putting the brand new announcements in bold, as there are announcements from previous days on current day “lists”

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Thelma April 11, 20204:02 am Reply

I have a quick question. If I signed up through Turbo Tax via their registration tool, then I don’t need to sign up via the IRS website. Thank you for your website.

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1. sleepygirl April 11, 202010:47 pm Reply
  
  You don’t need to do it again 🙂
  
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Anonymous April 3, 202010:55 am Reply

I am so thankful for this site….the support and answers and encouragement. We are not in this alone. ❤

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MichaelWeaser@gmail.com April 2, 202011:31 pm Reply

This tax website is saying if you are on SSI, you should file taxes as a taxable amount of $1 , Not sure if its a good idea to do it or not.

https://www.efile.com/file-a-simple-tax-return-as-social-security-income-recipient/

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1. sleepygirl April 3, 202011:07 am Reply
  
  brilliant. thank you for sharing this!! I’ll add the link. I also have no idea if it’s good to do, but I’ll just put up the link and let folks make their own choice.
  
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Anonymous April 2, 20209:47 pm Reply

Schucks accepts EBT online for deliveries via insta cart. i’m assuming it’s like USDA’s pilot program, you’d just have to pay delivery fees.

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1. sleepygirl April 2, 202010:45 pm Reply
  
  Thanks so much. May I ask if you have ever tried this? I haven’t heard of the instacart system allowing an ebt payment.
  
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Anonymous March 28, 202012:52 am Reply

I read this blog constantly when I was mostly homebound and disabled for almost 3 years. I have so much gratitude for the info/resource gathering skills!

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Anonymous March 25, 20204:22 pm Reply

Yep yep yep so good. ❤️

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Anonymous March 25, 20203:47 pm Reply

I am LOVING and appreciating your approach here, what a great resource!!

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Anonymous March 24, 20204:21 pm Reply

Thank you so much for doing this. I love that we (homebound people) are able to help for once! I shared on my page and a few people are very intrigued & hopefully will benefit from all the hard work.

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Anonymous March 24, 20208:57 am Reply

This group and website are amazing-very up to date and extremely helpful info.

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Anonymous March 23, 20204:12 pm Reply

Thank you for all you do in helping so many people ❤️

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Anonymous March 22, 20205:23 pm Reply

I second that! Much love & appreciation!

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Anonymous March 22, 20202:01 pm Reply

Thank you. As always the information here is helpful and invaluable.

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Anonymous March 19, 202012:30 pm Reply

My therapist started setting up telemedicine at the beginning of February and I am so so so happy. My PM doctor is also telemedicine.

I can do a lot with my PCP through the patient portal

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Amber March 19, 202012:08 pm Reply

I worked for Schwans many years ago but it doesn’t look like anything has changed much re: EBT/SNAP. Schwans is in every state, and I’d guess there are few areas that couldn’t get a delivery somehow. They do let you pay via SNAP, but there are two complicating factors:
– You must have a credit/debit card to place the order, and this card WILL get charged if you’re not available when they come because…
– You have to present your EBT card to the route driver at the door when they deliver. This could become a non-option as the situation with the virus changes and they look to protect route drivers. They’ve already moved to no-contact deliveries as much as possible, but this type of delivery might be an exception. Obviously this contact could be a health concern for you as well, so you’ll have to judge your own risk.

Caveats: I have no official company info, just what I know from (>10yrs old) personal experience and reading the current info on the company website. But they let me pay with SNAP way back in 2006 in a state that still has no other SNAP grocery delivery options…

Good luck & good health!

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1. sleepygirl March 19, 20205:16 pm Reply
  
  super helpful! I was just starting a page about schwan’s and will add this. Thank you so much!
  
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