Economic Troubles
The economy may be in shambles throughout 2009 -- and, for that matter, beyond. That's what experts, like financial guru Warren Buffet, now say. That means all of us may experience some unwelcome after-effects - whether from job loss, the stock market plunge, the credit crisis or tumbling home prices. If you need help with economic problems, below are websites to help you navigate some of the resources available to you.
You can also visit the federal economic recovery web site or Florida's recovery web site for more information on efforts to revive the economy and put people to work.
Jobs
Employ Florida is the state's official online portal to virtual job-matching services and many other workforce resources. If you are seeking a job, you may create and post your resume, search thousands of openings in any or all of our 67 counties and access other career-development tools.
Small businesses
Find local small business information from one of Florida's two Small Business Administration offices. On their web site you can find information on resources available to your business.
Health Care: COBRA
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides for premium reductions for health benefits under COBRA. Eligible individuals pay only 35 percent of their COBRA premiums and the remaining 65 percent is reimbursed to the coverage provider through a tax credit. More information on changes to COBRA can be found on the Department of Labor web site.
Unemployment compensation
Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act unemployment benefit payments are increased by $25 per week through December 31, 2009 for individuals receiving Trade Readjustment Allowances, Disaster Unemployment Benefits, regular Unemployment Compensation, Extended Benefits, or EUC. You can find more information about changes to unemployment compensation and apply for unemployment compensation on the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation web site.
Help for Homeowners
Find out if you are eligible for mortgage modifications or refinancing on the Making Home Affordable web site. You can also find a foreclosure avoidance counselor in your area by visiting the Housing and Urban Development web site and selecting Florida.
Tax Relief
The Internal Revenue Service is responsible for implementing about 30 tax changes that will provide relief to the American taxpayer and spur job growth. The Internal Revenue Service web site details some of the key changes that could help you.
