Current market conditions around COVID-19 have reduced workload and forced difficult cost-saving decisions.  In addition, heightened marketplace competition makes it critical that you understand what really drives your profits.  A strategic cost review grounded in the knowledge of your cost structure, workflow and productivity measures can help managers focus on activities that bring the most value and allow you to align your pricing strategies to maximize profits.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act signed into law on March 27 provides $349 billion in funding for the Small Business Administration (SBA) in an effort to provide assistance and relief to America’s small businesses struggling under the weight of COVID-19. The Act included a paycheck protection provision for small businesses by providing additional funding to the SBA for specific areas of need and expanding the SBA’s 7(a) loan program.

Small businesses are now eligible for up to $2 million in Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA). President Trump has called for an additional $50 billion in funding to the SBA’s lending program from Congress. While the $50 billion is not yet approved, the SBA can issue an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration, thanks to the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act.

Knowing what to expect before starting the loan process will help prevent unnecessary errors and rework. Completing the application process quickly and accurately will be key as there will be high demand and processing times will likely increase. We’ve put together the following summary of what business owners can expect when applying for an SBA loan.  

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) signed on March 18, 2020, made unprecedented expansions to paid sick and family (childcare) leave provisions in light of the challenges for the American workforce due to COVID-19. The expansions to paid sick and family leave cover employers with up to 500 employees, and tax credits are available for up to 100% of qualifying wages paid. Eligible employers are granted a grace period by the DOL to come into compliance with the Act as long as employers act reasonably and in good faith during the grace period.

The President signed the latest COVID-19 relief bill on March 27: The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The bill brings with it several elements of relief for businesses, employees and families, in an effort to maintain livelihoods throughout the crisis and after. The expected cost of the bill is nearly $2 trillion and includes nearly $500 billion for in economic distress relief for businesses, states and municipalities.

Qualified small businesses are now eligible for up to $2 million in Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the Small Business Administration (SBA) after President Trump called for an additional $50 billion in funding to the SBA’s lending program from Congress in response to COVID-19. While the SBA waits for the $50 billion to be approved, they can deliver an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration in response to the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act recently signed by the president.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), passed by Congress and signed by President Trump on March 18, 2020, will become law 15 days after the signing. FFCRA provides benefits such as paid sick leave, free coronavirus testing, expanded food assistance and unemployment benefits, and requires that employers provide additional safeguards for health care workers. For many, it provides welcome support as employers and employees deal with the extraordinary effects of COVID-19 on the workforce and economy.

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