Commonly Misunderstood Facts About The Employee Retention Tax Credit

16 May 2023

The ERC, employee retention tax credit, or employee retention credit, is a hot topic regarding business taxes.

However, it is often overlooked because it originated with the PPP or Paycheck Protection Program. Additionally, as more people are talking about it, it seems that many misunderstandings have caused business owners to believe that they don’t qualify for it when they do.

Some of these misunderstandings stem from prior laws that have since changed, while others are based on the fact that some methods of getting ERC money are more popular than others. Additionally, there are other misunderstandings stemming from scams and confusion about the ERC.

Here Are Four Common Misunderstood Facts About The Employee Retention Tax Credit

Here are some frequent misconceptions regarding the ERC and the truth around them.

1. Two Eligibility Tests

The most notable misconception is that a business must have a decrease in revenue to be eligible for the ERTC. This stems from the eligibility facet that states that companies must have a gross receipts decline compared to their pre-pandemic numbers to be eligible. This is one of the tests used to determine ERC eligibility and is the more popular option. However, some areas of confusion within this test include:

An increase in revenue doesn’t disqualify you if you still have a decrease in gross receipts.
This test is based on quarters, so failing to meet it in one quarter doesn’t disqualify you from others.
There are multiple methods to apply a gross receipt test.
PPP loan money is not included in the amount you claim for the ERC.

While this is one test, there is also another. Although often overlooked, a full or partial suspension of operation due to government orders can also qualify your business without a decrease in gross receipts. Despite popular belief, you can still be eligible for the credit if you meet this requirement, even if you have an increase in revenue and do not have to shut down your business.

2. Credit Amount

Employers who qualify can receive up to $7,000 per quarter per employee for the first three quarters of the year. Small businesses that opened during the COVID-19 pandemic can receive an extra $7,000 per employee. However, most companies will cap out at $21,000 per employee per year. If you have 100 employees meeting the salary requirements, you could receive $2,100,000.

The ERC is refundable, which means it will be a refund credit for these employers. That means you can still write off other expenses on your taxes and get a return. That can make it more desirable than other tax credits, which must be taken immediately or forfeited.

3. PPP Loan Disqualification

Another common misconception is that receiving funds through the PPP disqualifies employers from ERC eligibility. While that was initially true, recent legislation has changed this.

You can now receive PPP loans and an ERC, but you cannot use the same wage money towards both programs. That means that if you take out a loan, the money from it doesn’t count towards your ERC. Instead, the money that you spend on paychecks in addition to your PPP loan is what matters toward your ERC.

4. Third-Party Assistance

This is more of a warning about issues that have caused concern among business owners. Due to the potential for significant credits, many scams have been established to help business owners file for ERC money.

While some small businesses are qualified to help individuals analyze the ERC laws and apply them for you, there are still scams out there. If you file with third-party help, ensure your chosen company is appropriately qualified.

These misunderstandings have kept many small business owners from applying for the ERC when they were eligible—small business owners who have previously missed out need to consider whether they qualify for the ERC.

If you are eligible, you can receive thousands of dollars in tax credits. That can help your business recover from the recent pandemic and stay afloat amid future financially challenging times.

Read Also:

Five Ways an Employee Recognition Can Help Employees Perform Better
The Role of Communication in Employee Retainment
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Arnab

Arnab is a professional blogger, having an enormous interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, He carries out sharing sentient blogs.

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Understanding Funeral Insurance: Protecting Loved Ones

Insurance for funerals is a specialized form of coverage that addresses the inevitable event of one's passing. It's crucial in financial planning to offer financial security during emotionally challenging times. This article explores the significance of funeral insurance and how it operates, shedding light on various essential aspects for individuals and families. Importance Of Funeral Insurance Insurance is pivotal in financial planning due to its ability to address a fundamental aspect of life - preparing for the expenses associated with end-of-life arrangements. Funeral costs can be substantial, encompassing fees related to caskets, burials, memorial services, and legal matters. These financial burdens can compound the emotional challenges that families face during a difficult period. This insurance serves as a solution to this predicament. Thus offering a safety net that ensures that no loved one has to face the burden of funeral arrangement expenses How The Insurance Operates? Understanding the mechanics of this insurance is vital for making informed decisions. Here's a breakdown of how it operates: Choosing Coverage Level: Insurance policies provide policyholders with the flexibility to select a coverage amount that aligns with their anticipated funeral expenses. These policies typically offer various coverage options to cater to individual needs. Hence, it allows individuals to tailor their coverage based on their preferences and financial circumstances. Premium Payments: To maintain the insurance policy, policyholders must make regular premium payments. The specific premium amount can vary based on age as well as the chosen coverage amount. These premium payments ensure the policy remains in force, ready to provide financial assistance. Beneficiary Designation: A crucial aspect of this insurance is the designation of beneficiaries. Policyholders specify individuals who will receive the policy's payout upon their passing. These designated beneficiaries are often family members or trusted individuals responsible for final expenses. Moreover, this designation ensures that the funds are disbursed to the intended recipients efficiently. Lump-Sum Payout: In the event of the policyholder's death, the insurance company disburses a lump-sum payment to the designated beneficiaries. This payout can be utilized to cover various expenses, including funeral costs, outstanding bills, or any other financial obligations that may arise. The flexibility of the payout allows beneficiaries to address the immediate financial needs that arise during this challenging time. No Medical Exams: This insurance is known for its accessibility. Unlike many other insurance policies, it typically requires no medical examination or extensive underwriting for approval. This accessibility means that individuals of varying health conditions and ages can secure coverage without the hassle of medical assessments. Levels Of Coverage The policies offer several levels of coverage, ensuring that people can find a suitable option that aligns with their needs and financial capacities: Basic Coverage: Basic coverage is an entry-level option, offering a minimal payout. While it can cover essential funeral expenses, it may not extend to additional costs or outstanding debts. This level of coverage is ideal for individuals seeking to alleviate the financial burden of a basic funeral. Intermediate Coverage: Intermediate coverage increases financial support by providing a more substantial payout. Policyholders with intermediate coverage receive a higher sum, offering greater assistance in covering funeral expenses and potential outstanding bills. Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage represents the highest level of protection. It offers a substantial payout, accommodating elaborate funeral services and providing financial security for various expenses. Policyholders with comprehensive coverage have the peace of mind that even complex funeral arrangements are well-supported financially. Customized Coverage: Some policies allow for customization, allowing policyholders to tailor the coverage amount to their specific needs. This customization ensures that the policy aligns precisely with the anticipated funeral expenses, eliminating unnecessary costs. Benefits Of Funeral Insurance The insurance offers numerous benefits that extend beyond financial support: Financial Protection: The primary benefit of this insurance is the assurance that loved ones do not bear the financial burden of funeral and final expenses. By providing a lump-sum payment, this insurance ensures that the immediate costs associated with end-of-life arrangements are covered. Thereby offering peace of mind to both policyholders and their families. No Medical Exams: Its accessibility is a significant advantage. Policy approval typically does not hinge on the results of medical examinations or extensive underwriting. This feature makes it a viable option for individuals with varying health conditions and ages, ensuring that coverage is accessible when needed. Quick Payouts: The policies are designed to offer timely financial assistance to beneficiaries. Claims are processed promptly, often within days of submission. This expeditious processing ensures that beneficiaries receive the necessary funds without delay, allowing them to address immediate financial obligations. Peace of Mind: Knowing that final expenses are covered provides a significant source of peace of mind to both policyholders and their families. It eliminates the stress of managing these financial obligations during an emotionally challenging period. It allows loved ones to focus on grieving and honoring the memory of the deceased without the added worry of financial burdens. Support for Loved Ones: It is a practical way to support loved ones during a challenging time. It ensures the proper management of your finances. Thereby allowing family members to concentrate on processing their grief and commemorating the individual. By alleviating financial concerns, it enables a smoother transition during this emotionally charged period. Customizable: Many policies offer customization options, enabling policyholders to choose coverage amounts. Most of them precisely match their expected expenses. This customization ensures that your policy is exactly what you want. Thereby providing the necessary financial support without excess coverage or unanticipated costs. Considerations When Choosing Funeral Insurance While it offers many advantages, several vital considerations are essential for individuals contemplating this coverage: Premium Costs: The policies come with varying premium costs. 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10 Reliable Free Currency APIs For Your Business

In today's globalized economy, businesses are constantly engaged in international transactions and dealing with multiple currencies. Accessing accurate and up-to-date currency exchange rates is crucial for seamless financial operations, informed decision-making, and ensuring the accuracy of financial records. This is where currency APIs come into play. Currency converter API (aka. exchange rate API) enable businesses to retrieve real-time exchange rates and perform currency conversions effortlessly. They provide a direct and reliable channel for accessing currency data. Hence, eliminating the need for manual data collection and ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of information. Why is reliable currency data crucial for businesses? Accurate currency information is vital for various financial activities, including e-commerce, international trade, travel and hospitality, investment analysis, accounting, and risk management. It enables businesses to calculate product prices, manage inventory costs, track revenue and expenses, and evaluate profitability across different markets. However, with numerous currency APIs available, it becomes essential to identify reliable data sources that suit your business requirements. To help you navigate the options, we have curated a list of 10 trustworthy and free currency APIs that offer reliable and accurate exchange rate data. Let's learn about them. What Is A Currency Converter API? A Currency API Convertor allows applications to retrieve real-time or historical currency exchange rates, perform currency conversions, and access other currency-related data. It acts as a bridge between different software systems, enabling seamless integration and communication. Let’s read about some of the most popular currency APIs available today. What Are the Ten Best Currency APIs Available In the Market Today? Here are the ten most reliable currency APIs. Fixer.io Source: https://fixer.io/ Fixer API is a popular currency API that provides real-time and historical exchange rates for over 170 currencies. This API comes with 6+ years of experience and rock-solid data sources, making it a reliable API. As a result, thousands of developers trust this API worldwide. It offers reliable data retrieval through a RESTful API and supports multiple integration options. Fixer API offers free and paid plans, with pricing details available on their website, catering to businesses of all sizes. Currencylayer Source: https://currencylayer.com/ Currencylayer API is a popular choice for businesses seeking reliable currency data. With access to real-time exchange rates for 168 currencies, it offers features like historical rates, time-series data, and conversion capabilities. You can try these API endpoints available on their website. While it offers a free plan with limited features, its premium plans provide more comprehensive options tailored to specific business needs. Pricing starts from $14.99 and goes up to $99.99. There is also a custom plan for users. Exchange Rates API Source: https://exchangeratesapi.io/ Exchange Rates API is a reliable currency API that provides access to real-time and historical exchange rates for over 200 currencies. Moreover, the API gives 250 free requests monthly. It is a simple, quick, and reliable API with pricing starting from $9.99. This API uses over 15 exchange rate sources to bring accurate data for the users. Open Exchange Rates Source: https://openexchangerates.org/ Open Exchange Rates is a popular currency API provider offering accurate and up-to-date exchange rates for over 200 digital currencies. With various integration options, it enables seamless data retrieval and currency conversion. Businesses like Shopify and Etsy also benefit largely from the Open Exchange Rates API. The pricing starts from $12 per month. You can also choose the unlimited plan that costs $97 per month. XE XE API is a widely trusted currency API that offers real-time exchange rates and historical data for over 210 currencies. Its easy integration allows businesses to access reliable currency data for accurate conversions and financial operations. Pricing for XE API can be found on their website, accommodating different business needs. However, this API is more expensive than other available options. Businesses like Vistaprint and Shopify also trust this API. Currency API Currency API offers a robust set of features supporting 170+ currencies globally. The API gives updated results after 60 seconds. This simple and reliable API comes with 300 free credits per month. The prices range between $9.99 and $74.99 per month. You can also get a custom plan. IBAN IBAN's Forex Reference Suite is a leading currency conversion API in 2023. It sources its data from reputable central banks as well as trusted providers, ensuring the reliability of the information. This API consistently refreshes the currency rates every 10 minutes, offering timely and accurate updates. Access to over 154 currencies enables users to obtain the latest conversions accurately reflecting dynamic market fluctuations. OANDA The OANDA currency converter API allows users to access a comprehensive collection of past data spanning over three decades, encompassing over 200 different commodities, currencies, as well as invaluable metals. This API caters to various professionals, including accountants, auditors, hedge fund managers, and also treasurers. Its primary objective is to deliver precise exchange rates that meet strict financial compliance standards. Currency Converter API Catering to developers of all proficiency levels, this API provides a currency API with three options: a free version, a prepaid service, and a premium solution. The unpaid version, as well as the prepaid service, cater to companies with lower request volumes. In contrast, the payable service is geared towards individuals seeking a robust and ready-to-use currency API for production purposes. Exchangerate.host API When you are searching for an API that is free and has a small resource footprint, it provides real-time and past exchange rates for foreign currencies and cryptocurrencies. The API guarantees an uptime of 99.99% and includes historical data spanning two decades. Conclusion Access to reliable free currency APIs is a game-changer for businesses operating in a global economy. These APIs provide accurate and up-to-date currency exchange rates. Hence, allowing businesses to streamline financial processes, make informed decisions, and ensure the accuracy of their international transactions. The ten reliable free currency APIs mentioned in this blog offer a range of features and data that cater to different business needs. By leveraging these APIs, businesses can reduce errors, save time and resources, enhance customer satisfaction, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace. So, take advantage of these powerful tools and unlock the potential of seamless currency data integration for your business's success. FAQs Is There a Free Currency API? Several free currency APIs, such as Fixer, Open Exchange Rates, ExchangeRate-API, and CurrencyLayer, are available. What Is the Free Web Service for Currency Conversion? A popular free web service for currency conversion is XE.com, offering accurate and up-to-date exchange rates. What Is the API for Currency Conversion Rates? The API for currency conversion rates provides real-time or historical exchange rates for seamless currency conversions. Read Also: Why Entrepreneurs Should Pay Attention To Cryptocurrencies In 2021 Crypto Staking: Locking Up Crypto Holdings To Earn Interest Can I Convert My 401k To A Gold IRA?

Commonly Misunderstood Facts About The Employee Retention Tax Credit