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.

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.

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 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, 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. 

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.