The first of several topical resource guides for dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Find all of our COVID-19 resources at http://women.vermont.gov/covid19.
Access to Food
Hunger Free VT is putting together outreach materials and will be updating their website to keep everyone in the loop with any important changes to school meal programs, 3SquaresVT, and other nutrition programs.
Vermont Food Bank offers hunger relief during COVID-19 and information about how to access the food you need.
3SquaresVT - Has your household lost pay? Have your childcare expenses increased? You could be eligible to receive a 3SquaresVT benefit or increase the benefit you already receive.
Senior Helpline by AgeWell at 1-800-642-5119 - Toll-free and confidential aging resource in Vermont for information and assistance.
Senior Meal Site Map - Many senior meal sites in Vermont are still operating, but instead of community meals there are take-out meals. Contact your local site on this list to make arrangements for a meal.
Vermont WIC Updates about temporary changes including phone meetings and an expanded food list since some WIC foods are hard to find right now.
Emergency loans
North Country Federal Credit Union is offering existing members whose income is affected by COVID-19 loans of up to $5,000. www.northcountry.org
VSECU is offering a $2,000 loan with a 24-month loan term and an annual percentage rate APR as low as 0% to help any Vermonter.
US Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
Forbearance Programs
The Vermont Public Utility Commission ordered a temporary moratorium on involuntary natural gas, electric and telecommunications service disconnections. This means that if you are not able to make your payments for natural gas, electricity or land-line telephones, you will not be shut off. However, charges will still accrue during this time.
Student Loan Forbearance info from the U.S. Department of Education
VSAC Student Loan Forbearance info
Housing
Department of Children and Families is extending housing supports for homeless individuals
Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition Updates about policy changes, resources, and closures related to housing amid COVID-19.
Vermont Housing Finance Agency’s COVID-19 updates on Affordable Housing
Public Assistance
The Agency of Commerce and Community Development provides updated information on Unemployment Insurance, Housing, and Financial Assistance.
Department of Children & Families, Economic Services Division is waiving in-person contact requirements for state government benefits programs. Apply online or by phone at 1-800-479-6151.
Economic Services COVID-19 page provides updates from ESD including guidance for visitors.
Vermont Legal Aid has created a COVID-19 page with info on evictions, health care, 3 squares, etc.
Vermont WIC Updates on coronavirus from the Vermont Department of Health including phone meetings and an expanded food list.
Tax Changes
VT State Tax Filing Deadline Extended to July 15, 2020
Stimulus Package
IRS guidance on the Federal Economic Impact Payments, which are an advance on a new tax credit for 2020, will be distributed in the coming weeks.
The Vermont Department of Labor provides information on how the stimulus package, or CARES Act, will impact Vermonters.
Unemployment Insurance
The Department of Labor has issued guidance for Employers and Employees, including information on the impact of the CARES Act on unemployment insurance benefits, employee sick-time and other issues as a result of COVID-19.
Establish an initial Unemployment Insurance Claim by phone at 1-877-214-3330 or 1-888-807-7072 or online.
The Full-Service Unemployment Insurance Claims Center can be reached at 1-877-214-3330.