Ever since the Coronavirus pandemic struck, we’ve all been trying to find ways to make due–to simply survive.
Many people are working on reduced hours or have been laid off indefinitely. It’s vital that we find immediate ways to navigate this new unfounded territory. Here are some tips on what you can do to better weather the COVID19 storm.
Apply For Unemployment Benefits or Coronavirus Disaster Assistance
First things first: If you have been furloughed, laid off, or your hours have been reduced, apply for unemployment assistance. If you’re in Texas, you may apply for Texas unemployment benefits here.
This is one of the most common ways to supplement income for a large majority of people. Those that are self-employed or working as freelancers may also qualify based on certain stipulations.
Apply for a Student Loan Forbearance
If you won’t be able to make that student loan payment, be sure to call your current loan service. They can let you know if you qualify for an emergency forbearance or student loan deferment. You may be able to reduce the monthly amount due or to even forgo the payment complete for the next upcoming months.
Cut Out Any Non Necessity Expenses
Look through your bank statements to determine what payments are coming out and if you can do without those services.
End all unnecessary subscriptions that you may have. Think about the typical recurrent billing memberships:
- Nail Appointments
- Hair Appointments
- Gym Memberships
- Tanning Memberships
- Radio Subscriptions
- Extra TV Add-ons
- Monthly Beauty Boxes
- Magazines
I ended my Sirius XM radio subscription and put my LA Fitness membership on a temporary freeze. I debated ending my Amazon Prime membership, but nahhh. I’m enjoying Prime Movies too much. You’ll quickly realize how little changes like these will start to add up and save you a great deal of money in the long run.
See What Companies Are Doing For Customers Affected by Coronavirus
See if companies are offering discounts, credits, or other perks. Some car insurance companies are giving customers back the full premium payments that they’ve made in recent months. My insurance company, USAA, is giving a 20% credit on the two upcoming monthly payments. Check around to see what companies you are affiliated with are offering. Every little bit helps in tough times like these.
Also, consider notifying your car insurance about the fact that you’re not currently driving as much. Since the Coronavirus has us all on lockdown, there is a lot less liability. Less liability might mean lower monthly payments from you.
Hardship Exceptions May Help Your Survive Coronavirus Pandemic
Additionally, some companies offer hardship exceptions, programs, and grants. I’ve seen this before with utility companies. It’s as easy as making a call into the company and explaining your situation.
Internet service providers are offering free internet to those with low income or those that have filed for unemployment. My electric company, 4ChangeEnergy is offering a pandemic assistance program that will cover your full electric payment if you can’t make it. Find more on the Coronavirus Pandemic program details here.
How are you Surviving The Coronavirus Pandemic?
Are you doing anything we haven’t already mentioned? Ultimately, we can weaken the COVID19 burden by tackling it head-on together.
Let us know in the comments below.
