The Songwriters Guild of America has compiled the latest information on
resources for music creators who are in need of financial relief during
the current shutdown caused by the COVID19 virus.
How the phase 3 stimulus package benefits songwriters
Emergency Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Under the
final $2-trillion Federal Government relief package, self-employed
musicians, songwriters/composers and music support crew who make under
$100,000 annually are eligible to apply for relief grants and loans such
as emergency economic injury disaster loan (EIDL) grants. Visit this link for more information on the EIDL
National Endowment for the Arts
The package
gives an additional $75 million to the National Endowment for the Arts,
an independent federal agency that provides grants to state arts
agencies, local leaders, and other federal agencies to promote the arts. Begin your search for NEA resources with this link
Unemployment
Under
sections of the stimulus bill some self-employed songwriters/composers
may be able to file for unemployment benefits depending on the state in
which they live. New unemployment benefits offer up to $600 a week for
four months -- again depending on the state in which you live.
United Way
United Way
and city leaders launched, last week, the COVID-19 response fund for
individuals, small businesses and organizations impacted by the
pandemic. Qualifications for direct financial assistance come on a
case-by-case basis, the website said. Additional resources can be found
at nashvilleresponsefund.com
.
MusicCares
MusicCares,
a nonprofit benefit arm of the Recording Academy, launched a COVID-19
relief fund earlier this month. Grant assistance for basic living can be
made up to $1,000. Qualifying professionals must show proof of canceled
gigs. More information can be found at MusicCares.
Grand Ole Opry
A Grand Ole
Opry trust fund offers aid to music industry employees “in time of
extraordinary need.” Funds assist medical bills, living expenses, rent
or mortgage and utilities. The fund accepts referrals from Opry members
and other organizations, such as MusicCares. More information can be obtained here at the Grand Ole Opry website.
Music Health Alliance
Music Health Alliance
launched a grant application process for music professionals suffering from the COVID19 shutdown or the Tennessee tornadoes.
Musicians Foundation
Due to an
overwhelming number of applications, New York-based Musicians Foundation
temporarily closed a COVID19 assistance portal. The organization plans
to reopen this week.
According
to their website, grants typically range from $500 to $3,000. Qualifying
individuals must show proof of working five years as a professional
musician. More information can be found on their site at
musiciansfoundation.org/apply.
