Credit Unions Navigating Emergency Checks, Aug. 21

Tigard, Oregon (Aug.20, 2020) — The first day of Oregon’s Emergency Checks program proved there is an overwhelming need for financial help for consumers impacted by COVID-19. Thousands of people visited eight participating credit unions Wednesday to apply for one-time, $500 payments set aside the by the state to help consumers who’ve missed out on other relief programs. Unfortunately, not everyone who has applied, meets the state’s eligibility criteria. To be eligible for the program, a person must: Have earned $4,000/month or less pre-tax prior to their income loss due to COVID-19; Not have received all unemployment payments they are owed; Be a current resident of Oregon and 18 years or older; Be able to prove their identity and that they are an in-state resident; and Attest that they are experiencing severe financial hardship directly or indirectly due to the Governor’s Stay Home, Save Lives executive orders; What to do first: Before making an appointment with a participating financial institution, it’s recommended consumers first find out if they are eligible. They can do so by visiting the state’s website, https://emergencychecks.oregon.gov, or by calling 2-1-1, where a live operator can provide information. The 2-1-1 hotline team can offer alternative financial resources to consumers ineligible for the $500 payments, such as assistance with rent, utilities, and groceries. If Eligible: Consumers who are eligible for the $500 payments, should then visit the websites of the participating financial institutions nearest to them, fill out the application ahead of time, and learn whether they need an appointment or may go to the branch and wait in line. Health and Safety:  It is critically important that social distancing protocols are followed; people need to wear masks and keep six feet of distance between themselves and others. “We know that people are already hit hard financially by the pandemic, and we don’t want them to also risk their health,” said Jennifer Wager, Executive Vice President of the Northwest Credit Union Association. The Oregon Legislature approved $35 million for the relief payments, which will help approximately 70,000 Oregonians. The state asked the private sector to help get that money into the hands of consumers, and eight credit unions agreed to lend a helping hand by distributing the funds. Those credit unions are: Central Willamette Credit Union; Clackamas Federal Credit Union; InRoads Credit Union; Old West Federal Credit Union; OnPoint Community Credit Union; Oregon Community Credit Union; Rogue Credit Union; SELCO Community Credit Union. The not-for-profit, cooperative credit unions are not accepting any fees from the state, ensuring that the funds set aside will go straight to the Oregonians who most need financial help.