Coronavirus Articles and Resources
Having the right information at this time is crucial. Here are some resources that might help you navigate this difficult time:
Health and Wellness
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | Coronavirus Information
Get up-to-date information on the virus from the CDC, including best practices for preventing its spread.
Hand Washing Guide
We could probably all do a slightly better job washing our hands. This downloadable pdf shows you the right way to keep your hands clean during the coronavirus outbreak.
Psych Hub - COVID-19 Mental Health Resources
This pandemic is a uniquely challenging moment in time for all of us. Between the fear of illness, the stress of isolation, and the growing financial uncertainty, it's incredibly important that we don't lose sight of our mental wellness. These free resources from Psych Hub are a good place to start.
SNAP Benefits and Eligibility Details
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is available to help ensure that you and your family have continued access to healthy food during times of crisis.
Financial Impact
Stimulus Check FAQs
The Treasury Department currently projects that most households will receive their stimulus funds by April 17. If you have questions about the stimulus, whether you qualify, and how it will be delivered, check out this NY Times article.
Maximizing Your Economic Impact Payment - Educational Handout
MMI's team of financial education experts have put together a worksheet highlighting strategies for making the most of your stimulus funds.
FDIC - Resources for Unbanked Consumers
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) shares resources and advice for stimulus recipients who may not have a bank account where they can deposit their funds.
ConsumerFinance.gov/coronavirus
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) maintains a list of COVID-19-related resources and updates.
CFPB - Credit Reporting Updates
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently released credit reporting guidelines for creditors to follow during the pandemic. These guidelines exist to ensure that creditors follow the recently passed CARES Act and accurately report accounts that have been placed on an assistance program.
IRS.gov - Coronavirus Tax Relief
The IRS has up-to-date information on the extended tax filing deadline, the status of tax refunds and stimulus checks, the tax impact of COVID-19, and more.
List of Car Insurance Rebates
Auto insurers are offering over $10 billion in rebates for policyholders in recognition of the fact that no one's really driving these days. Here's a thorough (though not complete) list of who's doing what.
AnnualCreditReport.com
All three major credit bureaus are now offering free weekly access to your credit report. Review your credit reports often to ensure that only accurate information is being reported.
Coronavirus Scams
MMI - Protecting Yourself Against Coronavirus Scammers
Unfortunately, scammers tend to come out during a crisis. These tips can help you protect yourself.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Scam Alerts
The FTC is responsible (in part) for investigating scams. As newly reported scams appear, they'll add those scams to their running list.
Housing Resources
Local Rental Assistance
The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) offers local resources for those in need of rental assistance.
Fair Housing Assistance
Every state has a Fair Housing Assistance Program (FHAP) agency available to help you understand your rights to rights as a homeowner, homebuyer, or tenant.
Forbes.com - Mortgage Relief Tracker
If you're concerned about your ability to make your mortgage payment during the coronavirus pandemic, Forbes is tracking all the available mortgage relief programs being offered through lenders and government agencies.
Fannie Mae - COVID-19 Resources
If your loan is owned by Fannie Mae, this resource should help you understand what options are available to you.
Fannie Mae - Loan Look-Up Tool
If you aren't sure if Fannie Mae owns your mortgage, this tool can let you know.
Freddie Mac - COVID-19 Resources
Similarly, if you have a mortgage that's owned by Freddie Mac, there are relief programs available.
Freddie Mac - Loan Look-Up Tool
Use this tool to confirm whether or not your home loan is owned by Freddie Mac.
Creditor Updates
American Bankers Association - List of Banks Nationwide and Their Response to COVID-19
The American Bankers Association (ABA) is maintaining a list of response initiatives undertaken by banks across the country.
Bank of America - COVID-19 Updates
Bank of America advises any customers who require assistance as a result of this outbreak to call the number on their statement and speak to a Bank of America representative directly.
Chase Bank - COVID-19 Resources
Chase Bank is temporarily adjusting hours, changing procedures, and closing select branches. If you have a Chase account, you can review their updates through this link.
Citibank/Citigroup - COVID-19 Updates
Information on how Citi is responding to the current crisis, including resources for small business and credit card customers.
Capital One - COVID-19 Updates
Information and frequently asked questions for Capital One customers.
Discover - COVID-19 Response
Updates and FAQS for Discover card customers.
American Express - COVID-19 Resources
Contact info, FAQs, and helpful resources for American Express customers.
USAA Bank - COVID-19 Response
Links, updates, and helpful information for USAA members.
Quarantine Resources
Scholastic - Learn at Home
Education and fun projects for students in pre-k through 9th grade.
Archive.org
Millions of free books, movies, TV shows, music, images, games, software, and more.
FreeCodeCamp - 450 Free Ivy League Courses Available Online
If you have some free time and want to challenge yourself with a free on-demand, online college course, here are 450 to choose from.
Related Articles and Education
Shopping Smart (and Not Wasting Money) During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Some handy tips for making the most of what you've already bought and spending your money wisely during the outbreak.
Alternative Ways to Earn Some Income During the Coronavirus Outbreak
If you're temporarily without an income, you're not alone. And while circumstances are changing all the time, at the moment there are still a few alternative ways to continue earning income until things go back to normal.
How to Stretch Your Money During an Emergency
With businesses and venues temporarily shutting down, a lot of people have seen their wages reduced or cut off entirely. It's incredibly challenging to manage your finances when there's no income, but there are some crucial steps you can take.
How to Prepare for the End of a Credit Card Deferment
Many credit card issuers offer hardship programs for customers experiencing a financial setback. The problem, however, is that sometimes these programs end before your situation has gone back to normal.
When Income Decreases But the Bills Don't (Webinar)
Check out this informational webinar for tips on prioritizing and taking smart action when your income has been suddenly reduced.