??Tips to manage COVID's impact??

Early in the pandemic, two of my friends were hospitalized with COVID. Both are male. Both are the primary breadwinners in their households. And both are still experiencing lingering health problems, two years later.

By now, there is a good chance you know someone who had a serious case of COVID. Indeed, the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation estimates that of the 79.17 million Americans who survived a bout with the coronavirus, 30% or 23.75 million are dealing with some level of post-acute COVID.

The typical symptoms include headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbance, dizziness, breathing difficulty and persistent brain fog, all of which can affect a person's ability to be productive and make a living.

“People are now realizing that this doesn’t just devastate you physically, it can ruin you financially,” says Diana Berrent, founder of Survivor Corps, the world’s largest COVID grassroots movement with around 200,000 members.

Long COVID has cost an estimated $386 billion in lost wages, savings and medical bills, according to an analysis by the Solve Long Covid Initiative, a non-profit research and advocacy group. The White House recently announced a national action plan to tackle the this looming health crisis.

There are steps you can take to protect yourself financially, too. First and foremost, get disability insurance, writes Chris Taylor. It's not cheap, but it's crucial, and there are ways to cut down the costs of coverage. I am lucky to work for a company that offers disability insurance. If you belong to a college alumni organization or another affinity group, see if you can tap into a group insurance rate.

An emergency fund, with money to cover expenses for at least six months, is also recommended, in the event you are unable to work, or need to reduce hours. It takes time to build an emergency fund, so if you don't have one, don't fret. Just get it started!

Make sure you stay healthy, too. If you're eligible, here is some timely information on getting a second COVID booster shot.

?? SOS for Social Security ??

If you need help filing for Social Security, Medicare or disability benefits, there is some good news: More than 1,200 Social Security field offices around the United States reopened to the public in early April after a two-year COVID-19 shutdown. But the agency also is bracing for a huge crush of visitors, writes Mark Miller.

For now, the agency website remains the best option for routine business. Pro tip: The national 800 number (1-800-772-1213) tends to be less busy in the early morning, early evening and later in the month.

??? SPRINGTIME IS FOR SELLING ???

If you are looking to sell your home, now is the perfect time to do it! In fact, Realtor.com says the week of April 10-16 is the prime week to put your home on the market.

The current mix of eager buyers, scant listings, healthy prices and mortgage rates that are still relatively low (historically speaking) means a lot of factors are tipping the scales in sellers' favor. Here are some tips on striking the right deal.

REUTERS POLL???

Where is inflation hitting you the hardest? Everywhere, it seems. Supermarkets topped the list in our last poll, but gas is a strong contender, and many commenters suggested that housing costs are another big money suck right now.

Our next poll focuses on real estate: Are you planning to sell your home in the coming year? Vote here! Whatever you decide, be sure to tell us why in the comments.

A$K LAUREN

Q. How to know when you deserve a raise and how to ask for it?

A. Look at salary norms for your industry or profession, says?Nancy J. Hite, a certified financial planner and fiduciary. Some good resources can be found right here on LinkedIn.

If you are not being paid at least the industry norm, it may be time to request a raise. People who live in high cost-of-living cities may need to ask for a raise more frequently. And with inflation on the upswing again in March, you need to make sure you aren't losing money.

"Are you a super-star at work??Based on your performance, you may deserve to get a raise more frequently than others in your field," Hite says. "Have you recently secured an advanced degree such as a MBA or advanced credential in your field? If so, you might be entitled to a raise."

It may feel strange, but asking around provides a lot of clarity when it comes to compensation.?Have other people in your office been given raises recently??It could be your turn for a raise, Hite notes.

Did your company have an exceptionally profitable year??"That may be due in part to your efforts.?If this is the case, it is time to ask for a raise!" Hite adds.

***

Are you shopping for pet insurance? Need to save for retirement? Or are you wondering if you can afford to get a divorce? Send your money questions to me, and I'll tap my extensive source network for expert advice.

Submit your questions?here.

?