Important Resources from Federal, State and Local Government Agencies

During this time of crisis from the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to make sure you know that federal, state and local governmental agencies are working together to help you. Click below for information:

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

• If you have lost your job, are unable to work, have had your hours cut or are caring for a family member due to COVID-19, you can apply for assistance from the California Employment Development Department.
• The federal government has extended jobless benefits by 13 weeks on top of the 26-week limit.
• Furloughed employees would also be eligible for unemployment benefits. Those who qualify would get an additional $600 each week for up to four months.

DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

• The Department of Motor Vehicles has closed all field offices. Starting April 2, they will be providing services only virtually.
• As of March 16, 2020, law enforcement will be exercising flexibility for 60 days when reviewing expired driver licenses and vehicle registration records.
• The deadline to apply for a Real ID has been extended to October 1, 2021.

TAX FILING

• The deadline for filing 2019 state and federal taxes is now July 15, 2020.
• You can request relief from interest or penalties from the California Franchise Tax Board.
• Beginning on April 11, those unable to pay their property taxes on time may submit a request for penalty cancellation online.

ADDITIONAL RELIEF

• Mortgages and foreclosures: Most major banks have agreed to allow residential property owners impacted by the crisis to miss mortgage payments for 90 days. Contact your bank to make sure it is providing this assistance before you stop making payments.
• Student loans: Through the CARES Act, students can stop paying student loans through September 30. No interest will accrue until this date and no garnishments will be issued to pay for student loans. Also, pausing student loan payments will not negatively impact student loan forgiveness.
• Federal lenders are letting borrowers suspend their student loans and loan payments without penalty for the next 60 days.

STIMULUS CALCULATOR

The vast majority of Americans are set to get direct payments from the federal government as early as next month under a $2.2 trillion economic rescue package in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Get an estimate of how much money you may expect from your 2020 stimulus payment.

Visit my website for the latest information and for resources at the county and local levels. Constituents needing individual assistance should contact my district office at (562) 429-0470.

Sincerely,

Patrick O'Donnell
Assemblymember, 70th Assembly District