We’re just over a week into our COVID19 Stay at Home order—and my, what a week it’s been.
Like most, I’m locked down at home—relying on teleconferences for much-needed facetime with family, friends and staff. And like many of you, I have a restless toddler on my lap through it all.
I understand the challenge of our situation. But I hope you—like myself—find power in information and action. Along with my colleagues in local and state government, I’m working hard to bring you the latest—as quickly as possible. We’re approaching this situation with the urgency it deserves.
To that end, I wanted to provide you with a list of all the additional resources available during this time of uncertainty and need. My staff and I did our best to include resources in response to many of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received.
Info and links to these resources follow.
Thank you to all serving in our moment of need. To the doctors, nurses, EMTs, pharmacists, grocery store employees, delivery drivers, public safety officials, maintenance workers and beyond—your work is seen—and is deeply appreciated. Stay safe. Together, we’ll weather this storm.
The State of California and Governor Newsom launched a site with answers to many questions—and with links to much-needed resourced. It has the latest health updates, and info on how to apply for unemployment, disability benefits, paid family leave, small business assistance, and more
If you are experiencing unemployment due to COVID-19, and are eligible, you can file for Unemployment Insurance.
If you’re unable to work due to having or being exposed to #COVID19—you’re encouraged to file a Disability Insurance claim.
Disability Insurance provides short-term benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages due to a non-work-related illness, injury or pregnancy.
If you’re unable to work because you’re caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19—you’re encouraged to file for Paid Family Leave (PFL). PFL provides up to 6 weeks (extends to 8 on July 1) of benefit payments to eligible workers who have full or partial loss of wages
Governor Newsome recently issued an order extending eligibility periods for many safety net serivecs—waiving re-determinations for 90 days for Californians using:
- Medi-Cal health insurance
- CalFresh food assistance
- CalWORKS
- Cash Assistance for Immigrants
- In-Home Supportive Services
Due to COVID19, CoveredCA has opened a special enrollment period. You can apply now for coverage if you are uninsured and eligible.
The California DMV has announced a 60-day grace period for transactions that have a deadline of March 16 or later and require an office visit. DMV offices are still open—but no walk-in visitors are allowed—only those with prior appointments. No behind-the-wheel tests are being given.
And for those worried about needing a REAL-ID to travel, the federal government has announced they will delay implementation of REAL-ID due to COVID19 — more specific details to follow.
The deadlines to file federal and California state income taxes have been extended to July 15th. There will be no penalties or interests imposed.
California property taxes are still due April 10, though some localities are allowing for waivers of late penalties due to COVID19. Check with your county.
The Small Business Administration (@SBAgov) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to California small businesses suffering substantial economic injury due to COVID19.
More info about SBA disaster assistance programs:
Governor Newsom’s Office of Business and Economic Development (@CAGoBiz) also has all the most up-to-date information and resources for small businesses. They released a useful FAQ for small businesses, which can be found here.
And, lastly, The California Department of Public Health (@CAPublicHealth) is tasked with releasing the latest State guidance for individuals, our schools, health facilities, and more. Their updated guidance material can be found here.
Originally posted on Twitter. Re-posted with permission.
