COVID-19 has brought an abundance of hardship into our lives.
Many have lost jobs, and unemployment is at an all-time high. It's okay to need help right now. It is essential to stay positive and find resources that will help you weather this storm. This blog is devoted to online financial support to help get you back on your feet.
Don't have the tech to access these resources? ConnectHome Akron wants to help! Click HERE to learn more!
Ohio Unemployment Benefits
Have you lost your job due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis? You are not alone--there are many going through this difficulty. The State of Ohio has created an online hub for those experiencing unemployment with answers to many questions you might have. You can also use their eligibility tool to check if you qualify and fill out an application. If you can't get online, you can sign up by calling 1-877-644-6562 (OHIO-JOB) or TTY 1-888-642-8203 Monday through Friday from 7:00am to 7:00pm, Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm, and Sunday from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Click the link below to learn more.
United Way Financial Empowerment Center
Many people and households struggle with large amounts of debt and lack of information and resources to help them improve their financial prospects. United Way Summit County is offering free, one-on-one financial counseling delivered by professionally trained coaches.
By calling the Financial Empowerment Center, individuals and families can get support in achieving their financial and personal goals. Click the button below to explore their online appointment options.
Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments
Are you looking for more information on Economic Impact Payments? The IRS now has a Coronavirus Information page on their website. Here, you can find out the most recent news on the Tax Relief plan and get information for individuals, families, business owners, and more.
It's easy to get overwhelmed my the amount of information. Here's some answers to some frequently asked questions:
If you did not get your payment because you didn’t file taxes for 2018 or 2019 OR you did not receive your tax refund via direct deposit to your bank, go HERE to register. If you did not get your payment because you are waiting on a paper check, you may not get it until September! Sign up to have it electronically deposited to your bank by going HERE. Don't currently have a checking account? Read on for help with that!
BankOn
If you opt for a check for your Economic Impact Payment, you might not get it until September. Then, you'll need to cash your check in person and possibly pay fees, buy money orders to pay bills, or use cash in person. There is a way around that! Thanks to BankOn, you can learn more about opening a safe and affordable bank account online!
Please note that there are currently 11 different financial institutions that can be opened online, and each have their own process for opening an account. Having trouble opening one of these accounts? Contact the customer service of the bank or credit union where you want to open your account.
Community Action Akron-Summit
Are you struggling with paying for utilities? Community Action is here to help.
Their program, E-HEAP, assists low-income households that are threatened with a utility shut-off notice or that have run out of bulk fuel, such as oil or propane. Household eligibility is based in part on income. For more information, click the button below to learn more and see if you qualify!
Ohio Means Jobs Summit County
If you have been looking for jobs due to unemployment or hardships, Ohio Means Jobs, Summit County has listings for jobs available now, along with other services. While, due to COVID, offices are closed to the public, you can still access services online! Click the link below for more info.
With these resources, we hope that you'll be able to get through any hardships you might face. Many Ohioans are facing challenges, and reaching out for assistance is okay. ConnectHome Akron and AMHA are here to help you and your family through this new and challenging time.
We will be frequently updating the blog with more resources for those affected by COVID-19, so subscribe below! If you have any suggestions for the next blog topic, email amahon@akronhousing.org to suggest it. If we feature it, you'll get a special shoutout!