Nearly every Washingtonian will be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s ok to ask for help. This page includes resources to help your family stay healthy both physically and mentally, find financial support services, and more.
You and Your Family
Good to Know
The Do’s and Don’ts of wearing them
If you will travel or are coming home from traveling, here's information you will want to know.
Have questions about schools and college? More information here.
Educational materials from the Dept. of Health.
Cloth face coverings and masks
Guidance on cloth face coverings including how to make them and how you can help donate them.
Childcare, K-12 and higher education
Learn more on advice given to schools before reopening and more COVID-19-related information on childcare, schools, colleges and universities.
Adults Ages 65+
People over 65 years old, and people with underlying health conditions, are at higher risk of complications from COVID-19. The most important step you can take is to protect yourself. Here are some resources to help you during this time, as well as the Safe Start for Long Term Care plan.
Mental Health & Well-being
This can be a stressful time. It is normal that you or your loved ones might feel anxious, sad, scared or angry. You are not alone. It is okay to seek out and ask for help. The resources here are a good place to start.
Thinking of traveling?
Visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ for current guidance and visit our travel page for in-state travel information.
COVID-19 is continuing to spread worldwide. CDC recommends you avoid all nonessential international travel. If you must travel, follow the recommendations in the Global COVID-19 Pandemic Notice, in addition to any travel health recommendations provided on the webpage for your destination and in relevant notices.
Food, Housing and Utilities Support
- Dept. of Commerce Eviction Rent Assistance program, funded with federal CARES Act dollars, may prevent evictions by paying past due and current/future rent for people in distress. Rental assistance will be provided through local housing providers in each community, not directly from Commerce. List of Eviction Rent Assistance Program providers.
- The governor has issued a statewide moratorium on evictions of residential tenants for non-payment until Oct. 15. COVID-19 eviction moratorium complaint form
- Please visit our food assistance page for detailed information about food resources in Washington.
- Gov. Inslee issued a moratorium on service disconnects and late fees through Oct. 15 for all energy, landline telephone and water utilities. Here is a directory of utility providers who can provide more information and resources if you need help with your bills.
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP makes energy assistance available to residents of Washington through a network of community action agencies and local municipalities. These organizations perform program eligibility determinations and award LIHEAP grants to eligible households. Each agency has their own procedures that will need to be followed in order to receive LIHEAP services.
Talking to Loved Ones About The Importance of Staying Home
Convincing your loved ones to stay home can be a challenge. Here are some tips on having a conversation about staying home and staying healthy.
Financial Support
- Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has developed a list of resources to address the financial impacts of the coronavirus, including mortgage assistance, financial resources and financial scams.
- The Employment Security Department (ESD) created an easy-to-read comparison guide listing some of the most common scenarios and whether individuals may be eligible for paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, paid family medical leave or industrial insurance.
- ESD maintains information about unemployment benefits for workers impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
- Washington now offers Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits. Some workers may be eligible for Paid Family and Medical Leave if ill or caring for a family member who is sick with COVID-19.
- United Way offers free online tax preparation.
- Emergency Student Loan Forbearance - Anyone with federal student loans can contact their loan servicer and request their accounts be put into an emergency forbearance which will halt payments for at least 60 days.
Health Insurance
If you or someone you know has recently lost or will be losing health insurance coverage, download the mobile app, WAPlanfinder, or visit wahealthplanfinder.org to browse health insurance options and get covered.
For additional information about coverage options, please visit the Washington Health Benefit Exchange Coronavirus FAQ page
Internet Access
Many internet service providers are waiving late payment fees and will not disconnect customers for late payments. In addition, some companies are offering free or low-cost internet services.
- Drive-In WiFi Hotspots provide free temporary, emergency internet access for Washingtonians who do not have broadband service to their homes. Access is available to all residents with specific emphasis on remote learning for students. Additionally, this service can be used for job searches, telehealth, telework, unemployment filing, and census participation.
- Xfinity WiFi public hotspots are now open to everyone.
- Comcast is offering two months free to new Internet Essentials customers in their service areas.
- AT&T Access offers low-cost internet.
Scams and rumors
Cybercriminals are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus. Now more than ever, we need to be vigilant looking for scams.
Learn how to spot and avoid scams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is helping consumers spot scams when it comes to the coronavirus. The FTC updates their blog with current scams to be aware of. If you believe you have been the victim of a coronavirus, or any, scam, file a complaint.
Resources for immigrant community members
City of Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs is partnering with El Comite and Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. See FAQs for immigrants who want to know more about how the issue of public charge might affect their ability to access healthcare and other services during this COVID-19 outbreak.
United We Dream maintains information on healthcare access for undocumented residents.
Military and Veteran Community Resources
This guide lists resources specific to our Military and Veteran community that may help us to get through the COVID-19 crisis.
Information from the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs for family members and representatives of residents at Washington state Veterans Homes, including FAQs for families wanting to visit a resident and a daily update of staff and residents tested.
Department of Corrections
Information from the Department of Corrections about the state Corrections Facilities and testing, News Releases, and guidance.
Legal aid
Washington Law Help has resources for those looking for legal aid during the coronavirus outbreak. Topics include family law, health issues, housing, financial, criminal, and assistance for seniors.
Grocery shopping tips
You can take several steps you can take before, during and after you go grocery shopping to keep yourself and others safe.