The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on small businesses across the country. With mandated shutdowns, social distancing requirements, and economic uncertainty, many small business owners have struggled to keep their doors open.
To help mitigate these challenges, the federal government has enacted various forms of relief, including the employee retention credit (ERC). This credit is designed to help small businesses retain their employees and continue operating during the pandemic.
Navigating the ERC can be complex, but with the right strategies, small business owners can take advantage of this valuable resource. Here are some tips and tricks for doing so:
1. Understand the eligibility requirements: To qualify for the ERC, a business must have been partially or fully suspended by government orders during the pandemic or experienced a significant decline in gross receipts. Small business owners should familiarize themselves with the specific eligibility criteria to ensure that they meet the necessary requirements.
2. Calculate the credit carefully: The ERC is calculated based on a percentage of qualifying wages paid to eligible employees, up to a maximum amount. Small business owners should double-check their calculations to ensure they are maximizing the credit.
3. Keep detailed records: To claim the ERC, small business owners must maintain detailed records of their payroll taxes, wages, and hours worked. Keeping organized records will make it easier to submit accurate and complete applications for the credit.
4. Be aware of other relief programs: Small business owners should also consider other forms of relief, such as PPP loans or state-level programs. It is possible to take advantage of multiple relief programs, but business owners should ensure that they are not double-dipping or violating any program requirements.
5. Consult with a tax professional: The ERC is a complex program, and small business owners may benefit from consulting with a tax professional to ensure that they are maximizing their credit and minimizing their tax liability.
6. Plan for the future: The ERC is set to expire at the end of 2021, so small business owners should plan accordingly. They may also want to consider other long-term strategies for retaining employees and mitigating the effects of the pandemic on their business.
Navigating the ERC can be challenging, but with the right strategies and resources, small business owners can take advantage of this valuable relief program. By understanding the eligibility requirements, carefully calculating the credit, keeping detailed records, being aware of other relief programs, consulting with a tax professional, and planning for the future, small business owners can maximize their chances of success during these challenging times.