COVID-19 Aid Deadlines

*   SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES   *   IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS  *  DEADLINES ARE APPROACHING  *

• ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THE CHILD TAX CREDIT?

If you did NOT file taxes in 2020 or 2019, you can still receive the Child Tax Credit benefits. Families with an income of less than $24,800 and undocumented families with an ITIN who have children with social security numbers are eligible for the child tax credit. However, you must take further action! Use Non-Filer Sign Up Tool found below or contact the Volunteer Tax Assistance Program (VITA) at 860.297.5962 for assistance. Child Tax Credit Non-Filer Sign Up Tool:  https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool

• HAVE YOU HAD PROBLEMS PAYING YOUR RENT DUE TO THE PANDEMIC?

Connecticut’s eviction moratorium expired on June 30, 2021. A national moratorium is in place until July 31, 2021. However, the Governor’s executive order provides additional protection for tenants by extending the appeal period AND requiring landlords to file with UniteCT before evicting people for non-payment of rent. Apply for UniteCT, Connecticut’s rental assistance program, right away: https://portal.ct.gov/DOH/DOH/Programs/UniteCT

• YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR FREE HEALTH INSURANCE!

Option 1: Special enrollment period — through Aug. 15 — via the federal marketplace at healthcare.gov, for people who buy their own coverage.

If you’re unemployed, you may be eligible for free premiums (via a tax credit) on certain plans until December 31. Go to healthcare.gov/more-savings/

Option 2: “Covered CT” Special Enrollment Period July 1- August 15

Free healthcare coverage will be available to households earning more than 160% of the federal poverty level, but not greater than 175%.  For example, that is: $20,426- $22,310 for individuals; $27,584- $30,170 for couples; $41,920- $45,850 for family of 4; or $49,088-$53,690 for family of 5. You must also have at least one dependent child under age 19 to qualify. A child who is age 18 must be a full-time student. Residents can sign up for coverage on AccessHealthCT.com or by calling 855-805-4325.

• HAVE YOU BEEN RECEIVING FOOD ASSISTANCE?

All SNAP recipients received a 15% increase in benefits during COVID. The increase only runs through September 30, unless Congress extends it.

Need to supplement your food budget? Please visit the Deep River Food Pantry or contact Deep River’s Social Services Director Rosie Bininger at 860-526-6033 on Tuesday, 9-12 or Thursday, 1-4.

• DO YOU QUALIFY FOR DISCOUNTED INTERNET SERVICE? 

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program will provide a $50/month discount on broadband service. You will be eligible if you lost a job or were furloughed after Feb. 29, 2020, experienced an income decline and had a 2020 income below $99,000 (single) or $198,000 (joint).  Available until the money runs out, so apply today!  Go to: https://getemergencybroadband.org/