Dear Friend, Amid the novel coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, the Cancer Support Community (CSC) continues our commitment to provide you with up-to-date, evidence-based information. In a time when news about the virus is developing rapidly, we are diligently tracking all developments. We heard from supporters that they appreciate getting an update that is not in “govspeak.” Thanks for the feedback, and we will keep that pledge to put these messages in plain language so you know the impact on you and your family and can share these updates with others. As you likely know, the U.S. Senate passed with unanimous support the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act last night. At this time, we expect the House of Representatives to pass the bill by voice vote on Friday. The President is expected to sign it into law immediately after House passage. This follows two other emergency coronavirus packages aimed at funding research, treatment, and vaccine development, increasing access to certain health care provisions, and lessening the economic suffering for individuals and business, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Learn more about the provisions in these stimulus packages on our What is the Federal Government Doing to Help People Impacted by Coronavirus? blog. This nearly $2 trillion emergency aid bill will provide individual relief on many fronts including:
- Direct Payments (one-time direct deposit based on income levels):
- $1,200 for individuals ($75,000 income cap)
- $2,400 for couples ($150,000 joint income cap)
- $500 for each qualifying child
- Adjusted by 5% of income above caps, phasing out at $99,000 for individuals and $198,000 for couples (without children)
- Expanded Unemployment Insurance:
- Creates a temporary Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program to provide payment to those not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers).
- Waives the 7-day waiting period for benefits.
- Raises the maximum benefit by $600 per week, for up to four months.
- Provides an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits of federally-funded unemployment insurance benefits.
- Payroll Taxes: Enables individuals to defer payment of 2020 taxes until 2021 or 2022
Additional legislative action is expected be taken to further address the challenges posed by COVID-19, and CSC is actively working with policymakers on the next iteration to continue to advocate for the health and well-being of people impacted by cancer. How Else is CSC Providing Support During This Time? CSC is putting up-to-date resources related to COVID-19 in one place, cancersupportcommunity.org/coronavirus, for you to remain empowered by knowledge and supported by community. Please also know that our digital platform, MyLifeLine, is a principal way to help individuals establish a digital community to avoid isolation, and we have added weekend hours to our Cancer Support Helpline, 888-793-9355, where licensed counselors are available to provide support and navigation services. In addition, our local affiliates are continuing to provide innovative and compassionate care through telephonic and digital channels. Each location has ensured that support groups, navigation, referrals to resources, and educational offerings are available to all those in need. Remember, we are all in this together—and we appreciate your sharing this information with your friends and family during this challenging time. |
