Published on: 13 March 2023
Last Updated on: 22 April 2026
The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) is a tax credit that was introduced as part of the CARES Act in 2020 to help small businesses retain their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. For wages given to qualified employees between March 13, 2020, and December 31, 2021, employers who participate in the ERC are entitled to receive a refundable tax credit of up to $5,000 per worker. The credit has since been extended and expanded under subsequent legislation, making it an important resource for small businesses that have struggled with the economic impact of the pandemic.
As a small business owner, you may be wondering if you are eligible for the ERC and how to go about claiming it. This guide will walk you through the eligibility requirements, calculation, and application process for the ERC. We'll also answer some common questions about credit and provide tips for maximizing your benefit. If you're a small business owner looking for ways to retain your employees and stay afloat during these challenging times, read on to learn how the ERC can help.
Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements for the ERC are determined by the IRS and are based on several factors, including the size of the business, the impact of the pandemic on the business, and the number of wages paid to employees during the qualifying period.
Employers who had a significant drop in gross receipts compared to the same quarter in 2019 were considered eligible for assistance under the CARES Act. This condition was determined by two factors: first, whether the employer had a whole or partial suspension of activities as a result of a government order linked to COVID-19, and second, whether the firm had had a considerable decrease in gross receipts. Subsequent legislation has expanded eligibility to include employers that experienced a decline in gross receipts of at least 20% in any quarter of 2020 or 2021 compared to the same quarter in 2019, among other criteria.
It is important for small businesses to carefully review the eligibility requirements for the ERC to determine if they qualify for the credit. This will help ensure that they can maximize their benefits and receive the financial support they need to retain their employees and stay afloat during these challenging times.
ERC Calculation
The ERC is calculated as a percentage of qualified wages paid to employees during the eligible period. The credit rate is 50% of qualified wages for the first half of 2021 and 70% of qualified wages for the second half of 2021. The maximum amount of qualified wages that can be taken into account for each employee is $10,000 per quarter, which means the maximum credit per employee is $5,000 for the full year.
The maximum amount of the ERC is $5,000 per employee for the full year. This means that if an eligible employer pays qualified wages of $10,000 to an employee during the eligible period, they can claim a credit of $5,000 for that employee.
To claim the ERC, eligible employers can reduce their federal employment tax deposits or request an advance payment from the IRS. If the credit exceeds the employer's federal employment tax liability, they can request a refund for the excess amount. It's important to note that employers cannot claim the ERC and the same wages for other relief programs like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
How To Apply For The ERC?
To apply for the ERC, eligible employers can claim the credit on their federal employment tax returns, including Form 941 or Form 943, for the eligible quarters. They can also request an advance payment of the credit by filing Form 7200 with the IRS. Eligible employers should consult with their tax advisor or accountant to determine the best method for applying for credit.
Documentation Required
To support their claim for the ERC, eligible employers must maintain documentation that shows the number of employees and the number of qualified wages paid to them during the eligible period. The documentation should also show the impact of the pandemic on the business, such as government orders or significant declines in gross receipts.
Deadline To Apply
The deadline to apply for the ERC is generally three years from the date the federal employment tax return is filed or two years from the date the tax is paid, whichever is later. Eligible employers should file their employment tax returns and claim the ERC as soon as possible to maximize their benefits.
It is important for small businesses to understand the application process for the ERC, including the documentation required and the deadline to apply.
Conclusion
The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) is a valuable financial relief option for eligible small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To successfully apply for and receive the ERC, small businesses must meet the eligibility requirements, understand how to calculate the credit, and follow the application process, including providing the necessary documentation.
The ERC can provide small businesses with much-needed financial support to retain their employees and sustain their operations during these challenging times. It is important for eligible businesses to take advantage of this program and consult with their tax advisor or accountant for guidance on how to maximize their benefits.
By following the guidelines outlined in this guide on how to apply for and get the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) for small businesses, eligible employers can receive the necessary financial support to navigate the pandemic and emerge stronger in the future.
Additionals:
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
Kale is one of the most nutritious and versatile greens you can grow in your garden. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber and can be used in salads, soups, smoothies, and more. But how do you harvest kale throughout the year so that you can enjoy it fresh and crisp and also make it last longer?
In this article, I will show you how to harvest kale so it keeps growing, how to harvest kale from the garden, how to store and freeze kale, and the health benefits and taste of kale. Additionally, I will also share some tips and tricks on how to grow kale successfully and how to use it in delicious recipes. Whether you're a beginner or an expert gardener, this guide will help you make the most of your kale harvest.
What is Kale & Why Should You Harvest It?
Kale has a mild, earthy, and slightly bitter taste, which can vary depending on the variety, growing conditions, and harvesting time. It can also become sweeter after a frost, as the cold temperatures trigger the plant to produce more sugars.
Kale can be eaten raw or cooked, and it can complement many dishes and flavors. It can also be seasoned with salt, pepper, lemon juice, garlic, onion, vinegar, or any other condiments you like.
Kale is not only tasty, but also healthy. It's low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. It can help improve various aspects of health, such as:
Eye health
Kale is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. These are carotenoids that protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. Kale also contains vitamin A, which is essential for vision and eye health.
Blood pressure
Kale is high in potassium, magnesium, and nitrates, which are compounds that help lower blood pressure and relax the blood vessels. Kale also contains vitamin C, which helps prevent homocysteine, an amino acid that can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Bone health
Kale is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are important for bone health and density. Kale also contains vitamin C, which helps the body absorb calcium and produce collagen, a protein that strengthens the bones and connective tissues.
Immune system
Kale is loaded with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and fights off infections and inflammation. Kale also contains vitamin E, which enhances the immune response and protects the cells from oxidative stress.
Digestion
Kale is high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Fiber also feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients and support the immune system.
Skin and hair
Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and iron, essential for healthy skin and hair. Vitamin A helps maintain the moisture and elasticity of the skin and prevents acne and wrinkles. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, which keeps the skin firm and smooth.
On the other hand, vitamin E helps protect the skin from sun damage and aging. Iron helps deliver oxygen to the skin and hair cells and prevents anemia, which can cause hair loss and pale skin.
How to Harvest Kale So It Keeps Growing?
One of the best things about kale is that it's a cut-and-come-again crop. This means that you can harvest it multiple times throughout the season, as long as you do it correctly. Here are the steps to follow to harvest kale so it keeps growing:
Choose the right time to harvest
The best time to harvest kale is when the leaves are young and tender, usually about 30 to 40 days after planting. You can also harvest baby kale leaves about 15 to 25 days after planting.
You should harvest kale before it starts to flower. This is when it produces yellow or white blossoms and becomes bitter and tough.
Kale usually flowers when the days get longer and warmer. Therefore, you should harvest it more frequently in the spring and summer.
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves
You can either cut the whole plant at the base, leaving about an inch of stem or cut individual leaves from the lower part of the plant, leaving the upper leaves to grow.
Additionally, you should cut the leaves about an inch above the soil to avoid damaging the crown and the roots. You should also avoid cutting too many leaves from one plant. This is because this will weaken the plant and reduce the yield. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least half of the leaves on each plant.
Wash and dry the leaves
You should wash the kale leaves as soon as possible after harvesting to remove any dirt, bugs, or pesticides. To rinse the leaves under cold water, you can use a colander or a salad spinner. After that, pat them dry with a paper towel or a cloth. You should also remove any damaged or yellow leaves, and trim any tough stems.
Enjoy or store the leaves
You can eat the kale leaves fresh, or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. I will explain how to store and freeze kale in the next sections.
How to Harvest Kale from the Garden?
If you want to harvest kale from the garden, you need to follow some simple steps and tips to ensure a successful and bountiful harvest. Here are some things to consider when harvesting kale from the garden:
Choose the right variety
There are many varieties of kale to choose from, depending on your preference and climate. Some of the most common varieties are curly kale, which has dark green, and curly leaves that are great for salads and chips.
You can also try dinosaur kale, which has dark blue-green, flat leaves that are great for soups and stir-fries, and red Russian kale, which has purple-red, frilly leaves that are great for salads and smoothies.
You can also choose kale varieties based on their maturity time, cold tolerance, flavor, and color. Some popular kale varieties are Winterbor, Redbor, Lacinato, and Scarlet.
Plant the seeds or seedlings
Depending on your preference and availability, you can plant kale seeds or seedlings in the garden. The best time to plant kale seeds or seedlings is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer or early fall, for a winter harvest. You can also plant kale seeds or seedlings every two to three weeks, for a continuous harvest.
You should plant the seeds or seedlings about a quarter to half an inch deep, and one to two inches apart, in rows that are 18 to 24 inches apart. Additionally, you should water the seeds or seedlings well, and keep the soil moist until they germinate or establish, which usually takes seven to 14 days.
Thin the seedlings
When the kale seedlings have two to four true leaves, you should thin them to avoid overcrowding and competition. You should leave about six to 12 inches of space between each plant and eat or transplant the thinned seedlings. You should also weed the area around the kale plants regularly, to prevent pests and diseases.
Harvest the leaves
You can start harvesting kale leaves when they are big enough to eat, usually about 30 to 40 days (about one and a half months) after planting, depending on the variety. You can either harvest the whole plant or pick individual leaves from the lower part of the plant, leaving the upper leaves to grow.
That is not all. You should harvest kale in the morning when the leaves are crisp and fresh and before the sun gets too hot. You should also harvest kale before it starts to flower, which is when it produces yellow or white blossoms and becomes bitter and tough.
How to Store and Freeze Kale
Kale is best eaten fresh, as it loses its flavor and texture quickly. However, if you have a large harvest, or you want to preserve kale for later use, you can store or freeze it. Here are the best ways to store and freeze kale:
Store kale in the refrigerator: You can store fresh kale in the refrigerator for up to a week, if you keep it in a perforated plastic bag or a container with a lid. You should also avoid washing the kale before storing it, as this will make it wilt faster. You should wash the kale just before using it.
Freeze kale raw: You can freeze raw kale without blanching it, which is a process of briefly cooking and cooling the vegetables to stop the enzyme activity that causes them to spoil. However, freezing raw kale will result in a mushy and watery texture and a loss of flavor and nutrients. To freeze raw kale, you should wash and dry the leaves, and then pack them in freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze raw kale for up to six months, and use it in smoothies, soups, or casseroles.
Freeze kale blanched: You can freeze blanched kale, which will retain its color, texture, flavor, and nutrients better than raw kale. To freeze blanched kale, you should wash and trim the leaves, and then blanch them in boiling water for two to three minutes, depending on the size of the leaves. You should then drain and cool the leaves and squeeze out the excess water. Moreover, you can then pack the leaves in freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze blanched kale for up to a year, and use it in salads, sandwiches, or quiches.
How to Use Kale in Different Cuisines and Recipes
Kale is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different cuisines and recipes. Whether you want to make a salad, a soup, a smoothie, or a casserole, kale can add flavor, color, and nutrition to your dish. Here are some examples of how to use kale in different cuisines and recipes:
American cuisine
Kale is a popular ingredient in American cuisine, especially in salads, sandwiches, and casseroles. You can make a kale and apple salad with walnuts and honey mustard dressing, or a kale and chicken sandwich with mayonnaise and cheese.
You can also make a kale and cheese casserole with eggs, milk, and bread crumbs, or a kale and sausage quiche with pie crust and cheddar cheese.
Mediterranean cuisine
Kale is a common ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in Greek, Italian, and Spanish dishes. You can make a kale and feta cheese pie with phyllo dough and olive oil, or a kale and white bean soup with garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice. You can also make kale and tomato pasta with parmesan cheese and basil, or a kale and potato tortilla with eggs, onion, and paprika.
Asian cuisine
Kale is widely used in Asian cuisine, especially in Chinese, Japanese, and Indian dishes. You can make a kale and tofu stir-fry with ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Additionally, you can make a kale and seaweed salad with rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds. You can also make kale and coconut curry with onion, garlic, curry paste, and coconut milk. If you like something Indian, you can also try kale and lentil dal with cumin, turmeric, and coriander.
Wrapping It Up!
Kale is a wonderful vegetable that you can harvest, store, and use in various ways. It's easy to grow, harvest, and store kale, as long as you follow some simple steps and tips. It's also healthy, delicious, and versatile, as you can use it in many different cuisines and recipes. Kale is a green treasure that you don't want to miss.
If you want to know how to harvest kale, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be there to help you out with the same!
Read Also:
How to Harvest Lettuce: A Step-by-Step Guide for Fresh and Crispy Salads
Everything You Need To Know About Harvesting Basil!
According to American Resort Development, there are more than 9.6 million properties that own a timeshare.
While it is the best way to reserve a vacation home to visit every year, there are times when the maintenance fees can become burdensome for many homeowners.
Right now, times are hard, and there might come a time that you will no longer be able to afford to pay the maintenance fees. And you will be forced to get out of the timeshare property agreements. While you can come out of the agreement, sometimes getting out of timeshare property can be a tricky process.
Your best bet is to avoid making mistakes when pulling your steps back from a timeshare property.
Common Mistakes People Make When Exiting From Timeshare
Many American enjoy the certainty of having a timeshare property for their family. However, many have made mistakes with the timeshare. This has led to financial issues and ongoing stress.
If you own a timeshare property, it is important that you prepare yourself with a Timeshare defense for any future problems, especially when you are about to exit the timeshare contract.
Check out these tips to avoid making any mistakes and get out of timeshare the right way.
1. Skimming Over The Fine Print
When you are signing the contract for the timeshare property, it is important that you go through the contract in every minute detail. If there is something you don’t understand, ask the timeshare organization to make you understand.
Get a legal expert's help if you are having problems deciphering the legal jargon in the cancellation policy. There are different timeshare contracts, and you must be aware of all the types of cancellation policies available for each contract.
2. Lie About Your Reason To Cancel Timeshare
Don’t try to lie about your cancellation. For instance, if you lie about medical issues and are unable to produce the medical bills, it might put you in a legal bind that will hamper your chances of cancellation.
Be honest with your approach. Everybody is professional out there. They will take your reasons professionally and will try to help. Because if you try tricks from sleeves, they will get the opportunity to do the same.
3. Correspondence Mistakes With Timeshare Exits
Placing a cancel order over the mail might seem like a convenient process. But it is hard to track the conversation. In addition, the conversation will have no legal binding.
The best course of action will be to send a registered mail to the headquarters of the timeshare organizations and address this to their cancellation department. This protects you from evasive excuses from the timeshare company.
4. Avoid Emotional Writing Style
While you might own the timeshare property for a limited time, you must know that the property is not yours. So, your action and process must follow professionalism and be business-like.
If you're being clinical with your approach, it not only helps you flatter the timeshare organization but also restricts you from making any mistakes.
The last thing you would want to have drama and become all emotional about is your cancellation. It will only cause a nuisance to both parties.
5. Agreeing To Another Meeting
If you have owned a timeshare property for a while, you must know just how persuasive these property owners can be. The last thing you want them to pursue is extending the agreement. So, unless there are any legal bounds about having any meeting whatsoever.
And even if you are meeting with them, ensure that you have your timeshare attorney with you for support. Your attorney will be able to tell when they are trying to butter you up and convince you to extend the agreement.
Avoid Mistakes With Timeshare
Timeshare real estate property can be a great option. It just needs a little time investment to choose the right one. Do thorough research on the type of ownership you would like. Calculate all the expenses, get to know the area, and see whether it's a good place for your family or not.
We hope that we were able to answer the question you were looking for. If there is anything more you want to know about the exit strategy from a timeshare agreement, reach out to us.
Have you been given the responsibility of planning the next corporate conference or event for your company?
Do you know how you can choose the best catering service that will win over your co-workers, bosses, and industry colleagues?
Are you looking for some tips and tricks, which can help you zero down on the best caterers for your next event?
Corporate Conferences and events can be important milestones for a company’s future. It can be your Annual General Meeting or a Shareholders Meeting, or even something like a Retirement Party for a dear colleague.
However, the important thing to note is that the food should be top-notch at all times. Everyone who attends the conference or the event should leave satisfied after tasting the food being served.
This is why it is so important that you hire the right catering services for your next corporate event. Hire the best one and you are looking at creating a memorable experience for everyone to remember. Hire the wrong one, and your office colleagues will make sure to keep discussing the ‘what went wrongs’ for a very long time!
List of 5 Easy Steps to help you select the best Catering Service for Corporate Conferences
1. Start with In-depth Research and Planning-
When it comes to any corporate event planning, catering is right up there in the first or second positions. It is important to understand the budget, get a sense of what the higher management feels, and then start with finding the right caterers.
During the shortlisting stage, look for small details like the promptness of the catering company when responding to your requests of quotations, sample requests, and references. This will give you a better idea about their professionalism and help in the selection process.
2. Be Sure about the Food from the Start-
Everything that the prospective caterer offers you in terms of food is going to increase the confusion in your head. This is why it is important that you have a set idea of the food, which you can then take to the catering service.
You also need to understand that caterers will suggest food options, which are cost-effective for them, but not for you. It is also important to see whether the caterer is taking interest in knowing about your company, its culture, and then making suggestions.
3. Food, Beverage Options, and Service-
We often have this misconception about catering being all about the food. What we tend to forget is that it also involves beverages and the overall service experience. This means that the choice of beverages, how good they are or not also matters when choosing the right caterer.
Corporate event catering should always take into account the level of service, which is being offered. Smartly dressed catering professionals, polite behavior, and a calm demeanor are what you should look at. Trust us, these things make a lot of difference.
4. The Experience of the Catering Company-
When it comes to corporate catering, the experience matters a lot. This is because the inherent nature of the catering experience in a corporate setting is radically different from the one at a wedding, or a birthday party.
It is important that you see the number of years of experience the catering service has. You can also ask them specifically for the kind of corporate events they have serviced to. This will help you get a better idea about whether they will be the right fit or not for your conference.
5. Look for Flexibility in the Catering Service-
There might be times when things do not go according to plan. For example, an announced client walks in with his entourage of five people as the event is going on. If you are seriously sticking to headcounts, this can cause some problems.
This is where a good caterer will be able to help you out. This is what is meant by flexibility in the catering service. These kinds of situations will arise from time to time and you need to be prepared for them. Asking the catering service about such issues in advance will help them and you prepare better for such contingencies.
The Final Word
It is important that you start planning in advance for your next corporate event. The success of the same will depend in a major way on whether or not you have been able to hire the right catering services for the same. By paying attention to the points in the article, you can ensure that you at least have all the boxes checked to help you narrow down your selections for the best catering services.
Read Also:
3 Reasons Why your Corporate Event Entertainment is Important
Components of a Successful Business Function
The eligibility requirements for the ERC are determined by the IRS and are based on several factors, including the size of the business, the impact of the pandemic on the business, and the number of wages paid to employees during the qualifying period.
Employers who had a significant drop in gross receipts compared to the same quarter in 2019 were considered eligible for assistance under the CARES Act. This condition was determined by two factors: first, whether the employer had a whole or partial suspension of activities as a result of a government order linked to COVID-19, and second, whether the firm had had a considerable decrease in gross receipts. Subsequent legislation has expanded eligibility to include employers that experienced a decline in gross receipts of at least 20% in any quarter of 2020 or 2021 compared to the same quarter in 2019, among other criteria.
It is important for small businesses to carefully review the eligibility requirements for the ERC to determine if they qualify for the credit. This will help ensure that they can maximize their benefits and receive the financial support they need to retain their employees and stay afloat during these challenging times.
To apply for the ERC, eligible employers can claim the credit on their federal employment tax returns, including Form 941 or Form 943, for the eligible quarters. They can also request an advance payment of the credit by filing Form 7200 with the IRS. Eligible employers should consult with their tax advisor or accountant to determine the best method for applying for credit.
