Many workers are being furloughed without pay. They aren’t eligible for unemployment benefits because they are still employed by the company they work for, but they being forced to stay away from work.
I wish everyone had 3-6 months of an emergency fund, but most people don’t. These checks, while not a huge amount, may allow people to keep their electric and water on for another month.. or buy some food supplies.
I’m one of those workers that cannot go into work, and have no idea if or when I will be allowed back. It may be 2 weeks, it may be 6 months. Either way, I’m cashing whatever check I get and being thankful that it was given.