Numerous programs exist in Virginia for those impacted by COIVD-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the world and our local communities in ways many of us could not have prepared for. For many families in the area, this has created major financial hardships resulting in unemployment, threat of eviction, food insecurity, unpaid utility bills, medical bills etc. As a result, our office compiled a list of Virginia resources for those who need some help with their financial struggles.
Local non-profits and state-run assistance programs are available to those who qualify, and can be a family’s helping hand in getting back on their feet during these times. The link below includes a PDF handout of resources that provide a basic overview of several local non-profits that can offer various types of financial assistance for residents of Fairfax and Prince William County if they are in desperate need of help. Some of the resources on the handouts apply to all individuals in Virginia.
Prince William County Resource Guide
Some resources we recommend for all those in need in Virginia:
Government and Non-Profit Programs
Common Help assists Virginia residents in determining their eligibility for many government programs. Similarly, the website also helps with applying for state run programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Health Care Coverage (Medicaid/FAMIS), Child Care, TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and Energy Assistance. This website allows you streamline the application process for many programs that Virginians in need may qualify for.
The Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP) is a program designed to help with housing stability across the commonwealth during the coronavirus pandemic. This program may provide financial assistance for rent or mortgage payments for eligible households. This includes financial assistance for rent or mortgage payments past due beginning April 1, 2020 and onward. the program has limited funding; so any individuals who may qualify are urged to apply as soon as possible.
2-1-1 helps link Virginians with resources across the state. The website and phone number put individuals in contact with government, nonprofit, and community-based agencies that can provide health and human services to individuals and families. They have one of the largest database of resources in the state.
If you are experiencing difficulties paying your utilities, you may have a few options. Energy Assistance (EA) helps low-income households offset expenses associated with heating and/or cooling their home. In addition, the State Corporation Commission (SCC) has established 60-day temporary moratorium on disconnects for past due electricity, gas and water accounts.
Other Options
If your issues relate to the inability to pay on your debts, including car payments, tax debt, credit cards, personal loans or similar, our office may be able to help. Our office has experience filing Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies to help clients deal with outstanding debts. Bankruptcy can also help individuals facing foreclosures. Debtors in Chapter 7 bankruptcy are able to wipe away a lot of unsecured debt, such as credit cards and personal loans. Additionally, Chapter 7 also allows individuals to discharge personal obligations on mortgages and car loans. Chapter 13 bankruptcy helps individuals restructure debt in a three to five year payment plan. This type of bankruptcy is useful to help people catch up on mortgage arrerages or restructure significant amounts of debt into one payment.
Our attorneys regularly deal with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and state taxing authorities; they help clients structure agreements to handle outstanding tax debt. Options for tax debt often include Offers in Compromise, partial pay agreements, currently non-collectable status, and much more.
If you need help with your outstanding debts, please schedule a free phone or video consultation with our office here. Alternatively, you can reach us at 703-880-4881.
Attorney Ashley F. Morgan is a Virginia licensed attorney. She has been helping clients manage various types of debts for years. Ashley focuses on helping her clients finding the ideals solution to their debt problems. Attorney Arthur Rosatti is a Florida licensed and DC licensed attorney . He regularly deals with the IRS and negotiates payment plans and settlements. Both attorneys handle negotiations directly with the IRS on behalf all taxpayers. Both Ashley and Arthur are available to review your debt situation; they always collaborate on cases to ensure that their clients are receiving the best advice possible.