Client Portal: Disaster Loans & Financial Relief

We're gathering the latest information about the financial relief programs that are currently available to small businesses. Bookmark this page to stay up-to-date with the latest news, guidance on how to apply for funding, and more!

PPP Forgiveness

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PPP Forgiveness: What You Need to Know

After receiving your Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan, we recommend considering the necessary steps in order to get your loan fully forgiven. This looks like:

1.) Spending in specific ways that follow the rules of the program

2.) Applying through your PPP lender

Below you'll find key information and resources to help prepare you for your application.
If you have any questions along the way, know that we're here when you need us––reach out to your bookkeeper, in-app, anytime, for futher support.

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How to Apply For PPP Forgiveness
Eligible Expenses for PPP Forgiveness
PPP Timeline
Rules for PPP Forgiveness
Forms for PPP Forgiveness
Required Documentation for PPP Forgiveness
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Latest Relief Updates

MAY 26, 2021

Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Update

  • Due to a rapid depletion of funds, the RRF was forced to close down on Monday, May 24, 2021.
  • There is some speculation that more funds will be added to the RRF program, however, at this time there are no guarantees.
  • Once we know more information about a possible RRF re-opening, we will update you here!

MAY 12, 2021

How to Find a CFI to Apply for the PPP

MAY 05, 2021

Important PPP Application Update!

  • Funds for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) unexpectedly ran out yesterday, May 4, 2021.
  • The SBA PPP application portal is now closed to all new general applications.
  • However, it appears that there is a reserve of $8 billion still available for prospective borrowers applying through community financial institutions (CFIs) only.
  • There is also an additional $6 billion available to fund PPP applications that have currently been submitted to the SBA but have not yet been reviewed. If a client's application is at this stage, they may still be able to receive funding!
  • This information is still developing, and we will update you as we learn more.

    APRIL 27, 2021

    SBA Announces Launch Date for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF)

    • The SBA has announced that they will begin accepting RRF applications on May 3, 2021 at 12:00PM EDT.
    • Applicants can start registering as <https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/restaurant-revitalization-fund"target="_blank">per this guide starting Friday April 30, 2021 at 9:00AM EDT.
    • The administration has encouraged applicants to review additional resources such as the Program Guide, Frequently Asked Questions, and the Sample Application before applying.
    For more information, check out this Bench Guide to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

    APRIL 27, 2021

    Update for Clients Based in California

    • A new round of the California Relief Grant Program will be opening as of Wednesday, April 28 at 9:00AM PDT and will remain open through Tuesday, May 4 at 5:00PM PDT.
    • Grant awards from $5,000 to $25,000 will be available to businesses to cover costs associated with re-opening business operations after being fully or partially closed due to state-mandated COVID-19 health and safety.
    • Funds can be used to cover employee expenses including: payroll costs, health care benefits, paid sick, medical, or family leave, as well as insurance premiums inluding rent, utilities, mortgage principal and interest payments incurred before March 1, 2020.
    Applicants will be able to apply online at the State of California website and through CalOSBA partners. Resources and application guide can be found here.

    APRIL 26, 2021

    Reopening of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG)

    • As of today, April 26, 2021, the SBA has reopened the SVOG Application Portal.
    • The SVOG program aims to offer emergency financial assistance to eligible venues affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more on SVOG eligibility, take a look at the SBA website.
    • The SBA has also encouraged applicants to review additional resources such as this document checklist and this FAQ document before applying.
    For more information on how to apply for the SVOG, check out this SBA User Guide!

    APRIL 21, 2021

    Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) Update

    • The RRF will offer financial relief to restaurants and other food and drink establishments impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Over the next two weeks, the SBA will launch a pilot period to troubleshoot the application process. Following the pilot, the SBA will announce the official application launch date for the public.
    • For the first 21-days, the SBA will be prioritizing awarding grants to eligible businesses that are: women-owned and controlled, small businesses owned and controlled by veterans, or socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses.
    • Applicants will be able to apply online through the SBA website, telephonically at (844) 279-8898 or through a recognized SBA Restaurant Partner.
    For more information, check out the Bench Guide to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund.

APRIL 19, 2021

Targeted Advance EIDL Reevaluation Request

  • If your Targeted EIDL Advance application was denied, you can now send an email to TargetedAdvanceReevaluation@sba.gov to get your application reevaluated.
  • For exact instructions on how to get your Targeted EIDL Advance Grant Application reevaluated, please check out this SBA page.
  • Please note that there is a different process if you would like your EIDL loan application reconsidered.

APRIL 8, 2021

Disaster Loan Deferral Period Extended!

  • On March 15th, 2021, the SBA extended the deferral period for all disaster loans, including the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), until 2022.
  • More specifically, all SBA disaster loans received in 2020 will have their first payment due date extended from 12 months to 24 months from the date of the note.
  • And, all SBA disaster loans received in 2021 will have their first payment due date extended from 12 months to 18 months from the date of the note.
  • For the full details you can check out the official notice from the SBA.

MARCH 31, 2021

PPP Extension Bill Officially Signed!

  • Yesterday, President Biden officially signed the PPP Extension Bill into Law. This means that you will now have until May 31, 2021, to submit an application, and, the SBA will have until June 31 to process applications.
  • However, even though the deadline has been extended, we still encourage clients to apply as soon as possible so they don't miss out on this funding.
  • As always, if you have any questions about the PPP or any other financial relief options, please reach out to your Bench Bookkeeper in-app, and they will ensure that you get the support you need!

MARCH 25, 2021

PPP Loan Application Update

  • On March 25, the US Senate passed a bill to extend the deadline for PPP loan applications from March 31, 2021, to May 31, 2021. The Bill also gives the SBA an extra month, to June 31, 2021, to process these applications.
  • Please note, this bill will still need to be signed into law by President Biden before the PPP extension can be implemented.
  • Guidance: We recommend that despite this extension, to best ensure your chance of receiving funding you should submit your PPP application as soon as possible.
  • For any questions about PPP eligibility, or assistance with applying, please reach out directly to your Bench Bookkeeper and they will ensure that you get the support you need!

MARCH 18, 2021

Potential PPP Loan Amount Increase for Schedule C Filers

  • On March 3, the SBA announced new PPP guidance which allows for Schedule C filers applying for a loan to base it off of their gross profit instead of net profit.
  • Previously, it was thought that this change would only impact new PPP applicants.
  • However, this week, the SBA has released further guidance through an FAQ that explains how Schedule C filers who have already submitted an application, have been approved, or have already received their funding, may still be able to benefit from this new calculation!
  • For the full details on how you may be able to increase your PPP loan amount, you can check out FAQ #66 from the SBA or reach out to your Bench Bookkeeper for assistance.

MARCH 15, 2021

The American Rescue Plan Act, Summarized.

MARCH 12, 2021

The American Rescue Plan Updates & Possible Extension of the PPP

  • As of yesterday, Thursday, March 11th, President Biden has signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan into law.
  • We have learned that in addition to the $7.25 billion in funding allotted to the Paycheck Protection Program, the plan also includes an additional $15 billion for the Targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance program (EIDL).
  • Next week, lawmakers in the House of Representatives are set to vote on a bipartisan bill that will extend the deadline for the Paycheck Protection Program.
  • If passed, the bill will extend the current application deadline from March 31, 2021, to May 31, 2021, providing small businesses with an additional two months to apply for their loan.
  • Note: this extension of the PPP is NOT guaranteed. To best ensure your chance of receiving funding we recommend applying as soon as possible.

MARCH 11, 2021

PPP & Taxes Clarification

  • Current US government guidance states that the PPP is not considered taxable income for the business, regardless of whether the funds have been forgiven or not.
  • With the passing of a $908B Coronavirus Stimulus Package in late December 2020, all PPP expenses were also determined to be tax-deductible.
  • What is still not entirely clear, is how those claiming PPP as Owner Compensation Replacement (OCR) will be taxed.
  • Note: At this time, we do believe that these OCR amounts may be taxable, and PPP borrowers should be prepared to pay taxes on these amount.

MARCH 10, 2021

The American Rescue Plan | Update

  • As of today, Wednesday, March 10th, the American Rescue Plan has officially passed through the US Senate and House of Representatives.
  • President Biden has stated that he intends to sign the bill into law this Friday, March 12th.
  • It has been speculated that once signed into law, the up to $1,400 direct stimulus checks included in the bill, will start to be distributed within a number of days. This will mainly be done through direct deposit and by mail.
  • We have also learned that the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will be administered through the Small Business Administration (SBA). We expect the SBA to release more details about this fund shortly after the bill is signed into law.

Resource:

  • How Working Americans Will Recieve Their Direct Payments

    • MARCH 09, 2021

    The American Rescue Plan | What We Know

    • On Saturday, March 6th the US Senate passed the $1.9T American Rescue Plan. It is expected that President Biden will likely sign the bill into law by mid-March.
    • The Rescue Plan is a wide-sweeping bill that is relevant to American Small Businesses, this includes:
  • An additional $7.25B of funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
  • The creation of a $25B Restaurant Revitalization Grant Program.
  • An extension of the federal jobless benefit supplement at $300 per week through September 6, and make the first $10,200 in UI received in 2020 non-taxable for those with household income under $150,000.
  • Direct stimulus checks up to $1,400 per individual and per every dependent.
    • This information is still developing, and we ensure to provide our clients with the most updated information as it becomes available.

    MARCH 04, 2021

    The SBA Announces Interim Final Rule
    On March 3rd, 2021, the SBA released an interim final rule which results in various changes to the PPP program. Here's a summary of these changes:

    1.) PPP Application Changes for Sole Proprietors

    • Sole proprietors, without payroll, will now be able to calculate their loan amount using gross profit, which is line 7 on their Schedule C. Sole proprietors who run payroll are able to use gross profit but must deduct the expenses reported on lines 14, 19 and 26 of their Schedule C.
    • Maximum PPP amount for sole proprietors is now $29,167 for those with an NAICS code ending in 72, and $20,833 for all other borrowers.
    • Unfortunately, a borrower whose PPP loan has already been approved as of the effective date of this rule cannot increase its PPP loan amount based on the new calculation methodology.
    • The SBA has developed new Borrower Application Forms for use by borrowers that are Schedule C filers and elect to calculate their loan amount using gross income:
  • SBA Form 2483-C will be used by borrowers applying for First Draw PPP Loans
  • SBA Form 2483-SD-C will be used by borrowers applying for Second Draw PPP Loans

    • 2.) PPP Forgiveness Changes for Sole Proprietors

    • For those now applying for the PPP using gross profit, owner compensation replacement (OCR) will now be replaced with proprietor expenses which will NOT be for the full loan amount when using gross income.
    • Proprietor expenses encompass an owner’s business expenses and own compensation but do not include employee payroll costs.
  • For borrowers who have no employees, proprietor expenses equal gross income.
  • For borrowers who have employees, proprietor expenses equal the difference between gross income and employee payroll costs.

    • 3.) General PPP Eligibility Changes

    • As previously announced by the Biden Administration on February 22, 2021, The SBA has also eliminated two exclusionary criteria. Now business owners who have defaulted student loans or have non-fraud-related felony records can apply for the PPP

    FEBRUARY 22, 2021

    President Biden Announces New Changes to the PPP

    • Starting Wednesday, February 24, 2021, the SBA will establish a 14-day exclusive PPP loan application period for businesses and nonprofits with less than 20 employees.
    • With this update from President Biden, it appears that the loan calculation formula used by sole proprietors may change, however, we are still waiting for official guidance from the SBA.
    • The administration has also eliminated two exclusionary criteria. Now, business owners who have defaulted student loans or have non-fraud related felony records can apply for the PPP.
    • Non-citizen US residents (green card holders or visa holders) can now apply for the PPP using Individual TaxPayer Identification Number (ITIN).

    FEBRUARY 09, 2021

    PPP Loan Forgiveness Update

    • Some PPP lenders have closed their PPP forgiveness application temporarily to focus on funding new PPP loans.
    • Reminder that the SBA has not set a deadline to apply for forgiveness, once your lender is accepting forgiveness applications, they will let you know.

    JANUARY 29, 2021

    SBA Funding Updates

    • On January 24th, the SBA reported that a total of $400,580 in PPP funding has been approved. This means that 12% of total PPP funds have been used.
    • With this in mind, we still recommend that you apply for the PPP as soon as possible in order to increase your chances of receiving funding.
    • The SBA is working to ensure fair and equitable access to its programs, and Bench will continue to update the information as soon as new data is released.

    JANUARY 19, 2021

    PPP Applications Are Open!

    • Our PPP lending partner BlueVine has now opened up their applications to all borrower types. Click HERE to start your PPP application with BlueVine today.

    JANUARY 18, 2021

    Daily Financial Relief Webinar: Recordings Now Available!

    DECEMBER 30, 2020

    PPP Applications Reopening

    • With the passing of the new COVID-19 Financial Relief Bill, PPP applications will be reopening for both first time and returning PPP borrowers. We expect applications will reopen around mid January 2021.

    DECEMBER 29, 2020

    COVID-19 Financial Relief Bill Signed Into Law

    • On Sunday, December 27th President Trump signed the new COVID-19 financial relief bill into law.

    DECEMBER 22, 2020

    COVID-19 Financial Relief Bill Passed

    • Late last night the US Congress passed a $900B financial relief stimulus bill.
    • The bill includes another round of PPP, unemployment benefits top-up, direct stimulus checks, and a reinstatement of the EIDL advance grant program.
    • This bill will also make several changes to the rules and eligibility requirements of the PPP, including making all PPP expenses tax-deductible.

    NOVEMBER 19, 2020

    PPP & Taxes Update

    • On November 18th, 2020 the US Department of the Treasury and IRS released guidance confirming that the PPP loan will not be considered taxable income.
    • Unfortunately, the US Department of the Treasury and IRS still have not clarified how PPP borrowers claiming owner compensation replacement will be taxed.

    NOVEMBER 16, 2020

    PPP Tax Implications (If Claiming Owner Compensation Replacement)

    • If you applied for the PPP using a Schedule C, Schedule K-1 or 1099 MISC forms, then you are able to claim owner compensation replacement (OCR).
    • At this time there is no clear IRS guidance on tax implications for PPP borrowers claiming OCR for their loans.
    • Some individuals believe that forgiven OCR amounts will not be taxed at all, however, this is only based on assumptions and not real IRS guidance.
    • As we wait for more IRS guidance on this topic, it is important to consider that you may end up having to pay income taxes on your PPP amount you claimed as OCR.

    NOVEMBER 3, 2020

    When to Apply For PPP Forgiveness

    • If your PPP lender is accepting forgiveness applications, we recommend applying for PPP forgiveness once your PPP lender has implemented the appropriate form for your application type (either the 3508, 3508EZ or 3508s).
    • However, if you are not ready to apply for PPP forgiveness yet, you still have lots of time as all PPP payments are deferred until 10 months after your covered period ends

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