Community News

Assemblyman Diep Updates on the COVID-19 Relief Programs

by: Tyler Diep Assemblyman, 72nd District
Posted: April 6, 2020

 

HUNTINGTON BEACH...Below are some updates I wanted to provide to you and your family. Please continue to practice physical distancing and stay safe during these unprecedented times. A lot has happened this past week and below are some highlights and important information that may be useful to you. 

Update on COVID-19 Relief Programs
The state has put online a COVID-19 webpage to cover all aspects of relief programs. You can learn more by visiting COVID19.ca.gov. 

The County of Orange has a similar webpage with resources: https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/. You are also able to track confirmed Coronavirus cases by city. 

I also encourage everyone to monitor the CDC website for updates on the national level. 

Update on Unemployment Benefits
Workers that were traditionally excluded from unemployment benefits such as gig workers, self-employed, and independent contractors may be eligible. The federal stimulus bill provides for up to $600 on top of the state benefit of $450 per week. Apply at www.edd.ca.gov and review the COVID-19: Unemployment Insurance Claims page. 

Assistance for Renters
The Governor signed an executive order that placed a moratorium on all residential evictions through May 31, 2020. 

Assistance for Homeowners
If your home mortgage is through a credit union, state chartered bank, JP Morgan Chase, US Bank, Wells Fargo, or Citigroup, the Governor has negotiated a mortgage payment relief program for 90 days. To learn more, or to see if your lender is participating, please visit this link. Homeowners should prepare documents related to the financial hardship to help expedite the qualification process. 

Property Tax Update
Although the property tax payment deadline is still April 10, taxpayers due to adverse impact of COVID-19 can submit a form to the County for a waiver on penalties, fees, and interest. For more information, please visit ttc.ocgov.com. 

Income Tax Update
Both the Franchise Tax Board and Internal Revenue Service have pushed back the filing deadline to July 15 for income taxes. More information is available with the Franchise Tax Board and the Internal Revenue Service. 

Employment Opportunities
The Governor announced a new website, www.onwardca.org that will help match those looking for a job with employers looking to hire. Please visit www.onwardca.org to help you upskill, reskill, or refresh and help you land a great new job. 

Assistance for Small Businesses

• Payroll Protection Program
  One of the key components of the recent federal stimulus bill is the Paycheck Protection Program. Any business with less than 500 employees, private non-profit organizations, 501(c)(19) veterans organizations, and sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals can apply for a loan to cover payroll costs for 8 weeks. Generally, the loan will be forgiven if certain terms and conditions are met. To learn more or to apply, click here. 
  
  You will need to apply for the program with your financial institution. Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase have applications live. Please review the sample application to gather all information and documents to make applying for the program easier. 
• Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance and Small Business Debt Relief
  In addition, the Small Business Administration also is providing Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance and Small Business Debt Relief.
• Free Deferral of Sales and Use Tax up to $50,000
  If your business collects sales and use taxes, you may be eligible for a free deferral for a year up to $50,000 for businesses less than $5 million in taxable sales. Visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administrationfor more information.
• 90-Day Extension on All Businesses Filing a Sales and Use Tax Return
  If your business collects sales and use taxes and file a return less than $1 million, you will have an additional three months to file your return, between now and July 31, 2020. If you qualify for this extension, it is automatic and you do not need to apply. Visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration for more information.
• California Small Business Loan Guarantee Program
  The Governor announced that he has authorized the California Small Business Loan Guarantee Program of up to $50 million in state funding, providing potential capital for individuals who do not qualify for federal funds. Visit the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank for more information.

Finally, please make sure to check on your loved ones and it is a privilege to represent you. We are all in this together.