The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provides assistance to small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Congress did not, however, provide a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, small businesses must determine their eligibility for various assistance programs. This guide outlines the provisions in the Act to help small businesses determine whether to proceed with an application for a loan, how to claim an elective tax incentive, and how to comply with certain changes in the tax code.

In addition to the CARES Act, President Trump signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) of 2020, which imposes a mandate on many small businesses to provide paid sick leave and paid expanded Family and Medical Leave Act benefits. Qualified wages under these programs are eligible for a 100% refundable payroll tax credit to help small businesses cover most of the costs. This document also provides information on the mandates and tax credits in the FFCRA.