Resources for Businesses, Employers, Workers and Job Seekers

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GENERAL COVID-19 RESOURCES
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Businesses

Business Oregon offers a list of links and resources for Oregon businesses looking for assistance in the event of local, regional, or statewide economic impacts due to identified disasters.

OEDA Businesses with Coronavirus Impact Assistance

Oregon Economic Development Association has compiled a page of information and resources to assist businesses as they experience impact related to the coronavirus.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
ODR Tax Relief Options

The Oregon Department of Revenue is evaluating options related to tax deferment. For companies, the department has announced it will not assess underpayment penalties under the Corporate Activity Tax to taxpayers making a good-faith estimate of first quarter payments. It is providing updates on its website.

IRS Tax Relief Options

The Internal Revenue Service has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus. This page will be updated as new information is available. 

GUIDANCE & PLANNING
CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses & Employers

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s has created an Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to plan, prepare and respond to COVID-19.

OHA Employer Guide on COVID-19

Guidance from the Oregon Health Authority for employers to adhere to as related to COVID-19.

TEMPORARY LAYOFFS, CLOSURES & UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE
COVID-19 Related Business Layoffs, Closures & UI Benefits

This page from the Oregon Employment Department provides general guidance, FAQs, resources, and Press Releases on COVID-19 Related Business Layoffs, Closures, and Unemployment Insurance Benefits for employers, workers, and job seekers. 

COVID-19 Scenarios & Benefits Chart

This chart from the Oregon Employment Department provides a comprehensive list of possible scenarios and applicable Employer Paid Sick Leave and Unemployment Insurance benefits available for employees impacted by COVID-19.

Information for Employers Considering Layoffs

Information and resources for employers considering a layoff of workers due to business interruption.

Oregon Rapid Response & Layoff Aversion Information & Contacts

Business closures and worker layoffs can occur for a variety of reasons including the potential threat posed by COVID-19.  If there is an indication that the business closing or layoff might be averted, Oregon’s Dislocated Worker Unit, in conjunction with the local Rapid Response Teams and other partners can provide technical assistance to interested parties to investigate possible layoff aversion strategies. 

Work Share Layoff Aversion Program

When times are tough, Work Share provides Oregon businesses an alternative to layoffs. This newly streamlined program allows employers to leverage unemployment insurance (UI) to subsidize a portion of lost wages for employers whose work time is reduced due to market downturns or other business stressors.

PERMANENT BUSINESS CLOSURES
Rapid Response Services

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission has rapid response services to plan for job transitions needed when a business closure or mass layoff occurs, including cases of natural and other disasters. Local Rapid Response teams coordinate with employer, worker representative, Trade Act and Labor.  

Secretary of State Business Closure Resources

This page from the Secretary of State outlines the steps for businesses making a permanent closure. It includes links to necessary information and forms from state and federal agencies.

SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT
SCORE Small Business Disaster Preparedness

SCORE can help small businesses be better prepared for unplanned business interruptions through a variety of free resources to help your business prepare for natural disasters and build a more resilient community. They also have volunteer mentors with decades of experience available in your area to help you get your business back on track for the future. 

COVID-19: Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a page of COVID-19 guidance and resources for small businesses and employers, including targeted, low-interest loans to small businesses and non-profits that have been severely impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Small Business Advocates

The Small Business Advocates help small businesses that have a question or concern about state or local government as an independent voice for small business that speaks from an objective point of view.

Closing a Small Business

This page outlines the steps for businesses making a permanent closure.  It includes links to necessary information and forms from state and federal agencies.

EMPLOYEE RECRUITMENT ASSISTANCE
Recruitment Services from WorkSource Oregon

WorkSource Oregon will continue to offer a variety of recruitment services throughout the state.  If you are seeking employers, contact a local WorkSource Oregon center and speak to a Business & Employment Specialist.

Place a Job Listing on iMatchSkills

This site allows employers to list and manage job listings online and match to qualified job seekers.

WorkSource Oregon is available to assist employers with registration or job listing management.
 

AREA SPECIFIC BUSINESS RESOURCES
Greater Portland COVID-19 Business Resources

This page provides information about resources for Greater Portland businesses affected by COVID-19. This is a rapidly evolving situation and we will update this page as new information becomes available.

COVID-19 Marion County

Updates on the impact of COVID-19 on Marion County

COVID-19 Deschutes County

Updates on the impact of COVID-19 on Deschutes County Businesses 

COVID-19 Multnomah County

Updates on the impact of COVID-19 on Multnomah County

COVID-19 Central Oregon

Updates on the impact of COVID-19 on Central Oregon Businesses

INDUSTRY SPECIFIC COVID-19 RESOURCES
Oregon Restaurants & Lodging Association

ORLA is continually monitoring and working on behalf of Oregon's hospitality industry to provide information and resources to help mitigate the negative impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Oregon Manufacturers Extension Partnership

OMEP is mobilizing information resources and other direct assistance to manufacturing businesses.

Technology Association of Oregon

Technology Association of Oregon will be featuring the benefits and value that TAO member companies can provide to our greater community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE
Unemployment Insurance Benefits

The Oregon Employment Department provides Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to most workers who are out of work through no fault of their own. To get benefits, workers must meet some requirements. In general, to receive UI benefits for a week, you must be able to work, be available for work, and look for work you can do.  

COVID-19 Related Business Layoffs, Closures & UI Benefits

This page from the Oregon Employment Department provides general guidance, FAQs, resources, and Press Releases on COVID-19 Related Business Layoffs, Closures, and Unemployment Insurance Benefits for employers, workers, and job seekers. 

Employment Department Temporary Rules for UI Benefits Flexibility

The unemployment insurance system aims to help workers and businesses, and the communities they are in, during times of disrupted employment. This rule sets out unemployment insurance provisions applicable to the unique situations arising due to COVID-19 and the actions to slow its spread.

How to File an Initial Claim for UI Benefits

Watch an informational video on how to file an initial claim for Unemployment Insurance Benefits

How to File a Weekly UI Claim

Watch an informational video on how to file your weekly claim for Unemployment Insurance Benefits.

Online Claim System

Access to file for weekly benefits, view the status of your claim, change your PIN, sign up for Electronic Deposit of UI benefits, etc.

Weekly Claim Line Phone List

For those unable to file their weekly claim through the Online Claim System, this list offers Weekly Claim Line phone numbers for all of Oregon.

UI Claimant Handbook

This handbook explains what you need to know while claiming Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits.

Unemployment Insurance FAQ

Save time on the phone by first checking this page of Frequently Asked Questions to see if the answer you are looking for is available online.

 

Videos on Unemployment Insurance Tips

Watch informational videos with tips and answers about related to Unemployment Insurance, including how to file initial and weekly claims, what is a waiting week, how to sign up for Direct Deposit of UI benefits, working while claiming UI benefits, and more.

Tips for Calling Unemployment Insurance

You can file an initial claim for UI benefits over the phone by calling 877-345-3484. Be aware that there may be significant wait times on the phone due to heavy demand, so file online if at all possible at www.oregon.gov/employ. Before you call, have your social security number ready and your Complete Work History for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and phone numbers, dates of employment, and estimated earnings.

JOB SEARCH SUPPORT
WorkSource Oregon Job Search Services

The WorkSource Oregon website provides links to resources that support Job Seekers in preparing for and finding employment.  Employer job listings, resume writing resources, career exploration tools and labor market information are among the services provided. Staff is available to assist you and introduce you to the services that will benefit you in your work search.

Alternate Ways to Access WorkSource Services

In-person appointments/conversations are now are being offered over the phone or via Skype.  Services available include resume assistance, interview guidance, job-search strategizing.  Contact information for WorkSource Oregon centers is available at the link below.

Contact a Local WorkSource Oregon Center

Look up contact information for your local WorkSource Oregon centers.

FOOD ASSISTANCE
Online Application for SNAP Benefits

SNAP offers food benefits to eligible, low-income individuals and families. Apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through this online application.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) FAQ

Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to assist with applying for and receiving SNAP benefits.

Oregon Food Banks

Find local food resources and information to access food banks in response to COVID-19.  Pantries and food assistance sites across the state remain open with increased cleaning and changes in service to help minimize contact among groups of people. Though this website updates hours and availability on a daily, they advise calling ahead before visiting a partner agency.

 

Where to Find School Meals During COVID-19 Closures

Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon are hosting a list of where to find school meals during COVID-10 closures in Oregon.  The list is sorted by School District. 

Accessing Food During the Coronavirus Outbreak

Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon have compiled a list of food resources and advice for Oregonians.

HOUSING & UTILITY ASSISTANCE
211info Connection to Assistance Programs

211info connects people with health and social service organizations to include enhanced information & referral and assistance programs that target specific services.  Visit this site to find connect to assistance with utilities, housing, health, food, and other programs.

Emergency Housing Help

This page lists various housing assistance programs that are designed for lower income Oregonians, operate through local agencies (CAAs) and community service providers.  

Oregon Housing and Community Services

Resources such as foreclosure prevention, homelessness prevention, etc.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides low-income Oregonians assistance with their home energy expenses. The LIHEAP program includes bill payment assistance, energy education, case management, and home weatherization services. 

Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP)

The Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) is a low-income electric bill payment assistance program for customers of Pacific Power and Portland General Electric. The purpose of this program is to effectively reduce service disconnections to those customers.

Oregon Financial Aid and Assistance Programs

Find financial help, government assistance programs, and grants in all cities and counties in Oregon.  Resources include help with rent, utilities, child care, and prescription drugs.

Oregon Energy Fund

Oregon Energy Fund provides funds for energy assistance to 30+ partner agencies and nonprofits throughout Oregon.

HEALTH CARE OPTIONS & MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
Oregon Health Authority COVID-19 Updates

Updates about the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak and other fact sheets.

COVID-19 Testing Coverage

The state has reached an agreement with several health insurance companies to waive co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles for their customers who need COVID-19 testing.  This page gives details on what is being covered and which companies are participating.

COVID-19 Resources for Managing Stress

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers a page of resources to manage stress for anyone experiencing stress reactions due to the impact of COVID-19.  Links to stress management resources for community leaders and health care workers are also included.

Health Coverage Options

OregonHealthCare.gov offers resources to connect Oregonian’s to health coverage options.

COBRA

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) gives workers and their families who lose their health benefits the right to choose to continue group health benefits provided by their group health plan for limited periods of time under certain circumstances such as voluntary or involuntary job loss, reduction in the hours worked, transition between jobs, death, divorce, and other life events.

COBRA Plans Explained & Alternatives

This page from My Oregon Health Insurance explains COBRA plans and offers possible solutions and alternatives to save your family money.

Free Clinics in Oregon

An online directory of free and affordable health clinics in Oregon. Most clinics listed in the database receive federal grants, state subsidies, or are owned and operated by non-profit organizations and provide services that are either free or at a reduced rate. 

Oregon Financial Aid and Assistance Programs

Find financial help, government assistance programs, and grants in all cities and counties in Oregon.  Resources include help with rent, utilities, child care, and prescription drugs.

ASSISTANCE FOR VETERANS
Military Heroes Fund COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief Program

The COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief Program was created to provide financial assistance to all Veterans, Active Duty, Reserves and National Guard who are experiencing a financial setback due to the negative economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant amount will support 1 month of payment up to $1500 in the following areas: Rent, Mortgage, Auto Loan/Lease, Utilities (Electric, Water, Heat).

STUDENT LOAN DEFERMENT
Coronavirus Forbearance Info for Student Loans

To provide relief to student loan borrowers during the COVID-19 national emergency, federal student loan borrowers can be placed in an administrative forbearance, which allows you to temporarily stop making your monthly loan payment. Read the borrower Q&As to learn more, and contact your loan servicer to find out your specific options.

TAX RELIEF
ODR Tax Relief Options

The Oregon Department of Revenue has several options to grant relief under federal or state declarations of emergency, or when situations arise that impair the ability of taxpayers to meet their obligations. Some options and legal authority are described on this site.

IRS Tax Relief Options

The Internal Revenue Service has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus. This page will be updated as new information is available. 

Public Health Quick Links
General Information
Administrator
Phone Numbers
503-397-7247 24-hour Reporting 503-397-7247
Fax: 888-204-8568
Emergencies: Dial 911
Location
230 Strand St.
Columbia County Courthouse Annex
St. Helens,
OR
97051

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30

DEPARTMENT MISSION

Columbia County Public Health is committed to improving the quality of life and protecting the health and well-being of all residents by addressing social, economic, and environmental conditions. Our goal is to ensure that all people in Columbia County have the opportunity for a healthy life.