I am an Employee
If your employment or work has been affected by COVID-19, we're here to help.
Choose one of the scenarios below that best fits your needs. Need to talk to a real person? We've got you covered. You can make an appointment for one-on-one help with one of our Career Coaches.
Filing for Unemployment Benefits
If you've been laid off, had hours cut or been furloughed, you can file for unemployment benefits and insurance from the SC Department of Employment and Workforce. To expedite benefits, you can encourage your employer to file for you.
How to Find Employment
Many companies are hiring to help with extra demand due to COVID-19. Richland Library has compiled a list of employers hiring and tips on how to conduct online job searches and interviews.
Career Coaching from Richland Library
Make an appointment for one-on-one assistance with a Richland Library certified Career Coach.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance
This advance offers small business owners up to $10,000 due to temporary loss of revenue, and does not have to be repaid. Available to any business with less than 500 employees--including sole proprietors, independent contractors, the self-employed and non-profits.
Express Bridge Loans
Available to businesses who already have a relationship with an SBA Express Lender and can be used for up to $25,000 quickly. These loans must be repaid.
SBA Lender Match
Find a lender based on your unique and personal qualifications.
Maker's Collective Funding
Funding and grant information from many sources, software, and advice for creatives navigating challenges related to COVID-19.
CARES for Artists
Find information on funding for individual artists and expanded unemployment insurance for freelancers and "gig economy" workers.
Let It Sing Grant
The Christopher Conner Foundation offers a $500 grant for SC residents with 2 years in the music field who have lost income from cancelled gigs due to COVID-19.
Artist Emergency Fund
One Columbia's Artist Emergency Fund will provide 40 emergency grants of $2,500 each to support professional artists in the Columbia area.
One Fair Wage Emergency Fund
Providing cash assistance to restaurant workers, car service drivers, delivery workers, personal service workers and more who need the money they aren’t getting to survive.
South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association
A comprehensive hub of information for industry workers and hospitality businesses in South Carolina.
Relief Funds for Restaurant Workers
The Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation is working to collect information and links to resources that will help restaurant workers deal most effectively with the COVID-19 Emergency.
Children of Restaurant Employees
Financial support to food and beverage service employees, with children, who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. You may also be eligible if a family member is diagnosed.