If You Lost Your Job And Need Financial Assistance, Do This

Working is quite complicated nowadays. Even though many places are hiring, you may be having a tough time finding an employer willing to take you in. Add in the stress of the coronavirus pandemic, and it can make you feel like you’re all alone as you look for ways to replace lost income.

The good news is that you’re not alone. Not only are many people in your similar situation, but there are tons of resources out there that are willing to help the unemployed stay on their feet.

Here’s a sampling of places where you can turn for financial help to generate income, pay bills, put food on the table, and more.

Food

Although you may be tempted to scramble for new sources of income, you can’t ignore the need for food. Your family will need it to survive, which is finding food assistance should be at the top of your priority list.

Many places offer food assistance. To get food now, visit the Feeding America website. It’ll help you pinpoint the nearest food bank or pantry so you can get some nutritional essentials as soon as possible. Another excellent source for emergency food assistance is 211. By dialing those three digits on your phone, you can get expert advice from a local operator on where to find food when you need it most.

While those options can offer food assistance in the short term, what about in the future? For more nutritional stability, rely on SNAP or food stamps. Although it can take a little longer to qualify for SNAP and get your EBT card so you can go grocery shopping, you can apply for expedited benefits if you’re unemployed.

Rent And Bills

With your food situation fixed, you now have to think of how you’ll pay your landlord and your other bills. Beyond speaking with your landlord and any companies about your situation to see if they can give you some leeway, contact Catholic Charities or the Salvation Army.

The former has been known to offer assistance with rent and utilities and help with food, clothing, and furniture. The latter, meanwhile, offers similar assistance, but they also have a job training program that can make it easier to find a job by expanding your skills.

Health Insurance

If your past employer offered health insurance, you should apply for COBRA to prevent a lapse in benefits. If you can’t afford COBRA, contact your local hospital. They may have a sliding fee scale or medical assistance program to keep you covered without breaking the bank.

Unemployment Benefits

Finally, you should apply for unemployment benefits as soon as you lose your job or see a reduction in hours. You can do so through your state by going here. And while it may not be much, that additional income can help until you get hired once again.