COVID-19 Entertainment Industry Resources
We’ve compiled advice and resources on national, state and local relief programs for those in the entertainment industry. Find out what programs you’re eligible for.
Federal Stimulus Payments
These direct stimulus checks will be issued in early 2021 in these amounts:
• $600/person and $600/dependent
The amounts will begin to decrease at individual incomes over $75,000 ($150,000 for couples). The federal government will direct deposit payment based on information from your 2019 taxes. If you haven’t filed your taxes, do so immediately even if you don’t owe any money.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
Self-employed individuals, 1099, independent contractors, free lancers and gig economy workers whose income has been cut or eliminated by the pandemic are eligible for a $300/week unemployment benefit plus a $100/week subsidy for wage earners with self-employment income not figured in to traditional unemployment. In December 2020, the Federal subsidy extended to 50 weeks of benefits effective through 3/14/21.
Red Dirt Relief Fund COVID Crisis Grant
UPDATE: Grants are on hold until January 2021 due to an overwhelming number of applications and limited resources. Please continue to apply if you face immediate insecurity as we will continue to fulfill grants as funds become available.
These grants of up to $1,000/household are made on a first-come, first-served basis to resident Oklahoma music professionals who meet these criteria:
-Face immediate housing, food, medical or transportation insecurity
-Sustained a financial loss of at least $5,000 due to cancelled/postponed gigs related to COVID-19
-Worked in the music business for the past 5 years. This includes creation, production and other jobs directly-related to the making of music.
To apply for financial assistance due to another non-pandemic-related emergency, email us at reddirtrelieffund@gmail.com.
Free Dental Services
Dr. Gary Belenski is offering free dental services to any Oklahoma musician and their families for the next 12 months. These are pro bono services with no strings attached. Located in Denver, Colorado, Dr. Belenski is extending this offer as a way of giving back to all the artists who have brought immeasurable joy to him and his family, especially at a time when so many artists are out of work.
All dental services with the exception of wisdom teeth removal and molar root canals are included until August 2021 at his office in the Denver area. Learn more at https://www.drgaryb.com/. To schedule service or discuss treatment options, contact Dr. B at 303-913-4950 or gary@drgbelenski.com.
Shuttered Venue Operator (SVO) Grant
If you’re a venue, promoter or talent agent who sustained a revenue loss of 25% or greater from April-December 2020, you may be eligible for a SVO Grant coming soon via the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Check out the details here and follow their socials for updates on when applications open.