5 Most Frequently Asked Questions From Businesses
With information about coronavirus coming from a wide variety of sources, it’s difficult to keep up with all of the resources that are available. One thing is certain, the impact to our world of work is shifting and evolving quickly.
At Frederick County Workforce Services, our Business Service Consultants have been busy talking with many businesses in our community and offering assistance during this difficult time.
Here are the most commonly asked questions we have fielded from our business community recently, along with some insight around each of these topics.
FAQ #1
I’m a sole proprietor/ contractor who is now without income because of the pandemic. Am I eligible to receive Unemployment Insurance benefits?
It’s likely that you are eligible under the expansion of Unemployment Insurance Benefits created by the CARES Act. The federal government recently passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which includes an expansion of unemployment insurance benefits.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) expands eligibility to Individuals who are not usually eligible for regular UI and who cannot work due to COVID-19. This program provides a maximum of 39 weeks of benefits, which includes $600 in Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) on a weekly basis.
The technical systems are currently being developed to accept applications meeting the expanded eligibility. Those who are self-employed, independent contractors and/or gig workers who believe they may be eligible can add their email address to be notified when the system is set up to process these applications. To receive an email once the new application is ready, please sign up here.
The CARES Act Frequently Asked Questions document has more information about benefit eligibility, duration, and amounts. Additional details about all three of the expanded unemployment insurance programs offered through provisions of the CARES Act is available here.
FAQ #2
I am an essential business; do my employees need a letter to carry when they are traveling to and from work?
Currently, there is not a state-issued "Letter of Clearance" or similar document for employees of essential businesses to carry. It is recommended that employers draft and print their own letters containing:
Name and address of the employee
Name and address of the business
Nature of the employee’s work and reasons why it fits the definition of essential
Employer's signature and contact information
Employers should encourage employees to have this letter on their person when traveling to or from work.
FAQ #3
I may need to reduce hours or lay off employees. How can I make this easier for those impacted?
First, consider options to retain your employees. Work Sharing may be an alternative option to keep your workforce intact through this pandemic. Work Sharing is a voluntary Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance (DUI) program that provides an alternative to layoffs for employers confronted with a sharp, temporary decline in business. The Work Sharing (WS) program allows an employer to cut costs by equally dividing available hours of work among employees. While working reduced hours, the employees will also be eligible to receive partial Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefit payments based on their reduction in weekly work hours. More info
Businesses that do need to lay off employees are encouraged to use the Bulk Claims option through the Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance. This option can make the process much easier for your employees as it eliminates the need for them to contact UI themselves to file a claim. With an unprecedented number of claims being processed, taking this step on behalf of your employees can reduce the stress of an already traumatic event. To determine if your business is eligible, please visit Labor's Bulk Claims Services Frequently Asked Questions page. If a business is eligible, it’s recommended to contact a Claims Representative by emailing UI.BulkClaim@maryland.gov.
FAQ #4
The CARES Act seems to have a lot of support for my business. Where do I start?
Programs created under the CARES Act are intended to provide businesses with support to get through this crisis. The main components include the Payroll Protection Program, the Small Business Debt Relief Program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, and the Emergency Economic Injury Grant.
Here are some resources to help sort through the information and get started:
Small Business Owner’s Guide to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist.
Frederick County Business Financial Tool
FAQ #5
Our business is an essential business and we need to remain open and operational. How can I reduce the chances of losing the staff that I currently have and support them through this time?
For businesses that are considered essential, such as healthcare, property maintenance and repair services, and certain retail stores, retaining staff can be a challenge right now. As many are protected from public exposure through social distancing and the stay-at-home order, those that are still working in the public are increasing their risk of exposure to the virus. It’s important to provide the support they need to stay safe and productive. Guidance for businesses to prepare their workplace, ensure compliance with Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRS), and Maryland Healthy Working Families Act (Safe and Sick Leave) can be found here.
Aside from ensuring access to hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies and other appropriate protective gear, some businesses are offering bonuses and increased pay during this time, as well as providing additional perks such as free snacks/meals and access to respite areas to rest. Many are also fostering inspiration and resiliency through new appreciation and recognition programs.