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Financial Assistance & Resources for Businesses
PAGE LAST UPDATED: August 12, 2020
County Health Order Business Closures as of July 13
On July 13, Governor Newsom announced that a number of indoor activities and industries will be closed statewide, and additional indoor activities and industries will be closed in counties that appear on the State’s “monitoring list” for three days or longer. According to the State’s website covid19.ca.gov:
Effective immediately, California closes some indoor business operations statewide and additional indoor operations in counties on Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days. Statewide indoor closures include restaurants, bars and breweries, wineries & tasting rooms, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos and museums, and card rooms. County indoor closures include fitness centers, places of worship, indoor protests, offices for non-critical infrastructure sectors, personal care services, hair salons and barbershops, and malls. County closures apply to counties that have been on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days.
The statewide closures have been in effect since Monday, July 13 while businesses in Santa Clara County will be required to comply with the list of County closures starting at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15. The list of industries closed for indoor operations is subject to the current County Public Health Order.
Businesses allowed to operate outdoors by State and County Health Orders may do so if business activities can be modified to operate outdoors. To operate outdoors, businesses must comply with California State Industry Guidance, the County of Santa Clara Health Order and Mandatory Directives, the professional standards issued by State Licensing Boards and Bureaus.
Businesses Facilities That Remain Closed
Business facilities that pose a high risk of COVID-19 transmission or large outbreaks must stay closed to the public. These include any indoor facility used for activities where face masks are removed (including indoor dining and bars, indoor swimming pools, saunas, heated exercise rooms, and smoking lounges), nightclubs, theaters, stadiums, arenas, music venues, indoor playgrounds and amusement centers, and non-residential adult and elder daycare facilities.
The State’s Stay-at-Home Order
In addition to the County Health Officer Order, businesses and residents must comply with the State’s Stay-at-Home Order. If there is a conflict between the two Orders, the more restrictive Order applies. Businesses that are allowed to open under the County Order should confirm that they are also allowed to open under the State Order. County residents who want to participate in activities allowed under the County Order, including gatherings, should confirm that those activities are also allowed under the State Order.
- General Requirements
- Social Distancing Protocol
- Signage
- Face Coverings
- Density Limitations
- Mandatory Directives
- The Order urges County residents to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission by staying home as much as possible and minimizing trips and activities outside the home.
- Individuals over the age of 70 and those with serious underlying medical conditions should stay home other than for essential needs.
- The Order requires all individuals to strictly follow social distancing requirements when outside their home, and generally prohibits all activities that don’t allow for social distancing
Telework
All businesses must continue to require workers to do their jobs from home whenever possible. Workers can go into work only to complete the job duties they can’t complete from home.
Positive Case Reporting
All businesses (and governmental entities) are legally required to report to the Public Health Department within 4 hours if they learn that any of their workers are confirmed to be positive for COVID-19. They must also ensure workers alert them if they test positive.
All businesses must fill out and submit the newest version of the Social Distancing Protocol to the County using the online form, available here. The County Public Health Department updated the Social Distancing Protocol July 21, 2020 to align with new isolation and quarantine requirements. Employers are now required to instruct employees who test positive for COVID-19 to stay home and isolate for 10 days from the date their symptoms began AND for 3 days with improvement in respiratory symptoms and no fever.
If they never had any COVID-19 symptoms, they should isolate for 10 days from the date their positive test was done. This is known as the “10/3 rule” and is a change from the earlier “14/7 rule,” which was referenced on page 6 of the original version of the Social Distancing Protocol. Employers are required to follow the 10/3 rule starting on July 21, 2020, but they do not need to re-submit a new Social Distancing Protocol if they already submitted one using the online web form on or after July 2, 2020.
All businesses must print (1) an updated COVID-19 PREPARED Sign and (2) a Social Distancing Protocol Visitor Information Sheet, and both must be posted prominently at all facility entrances. These are available for printing after submission of the Social Distancing Protocol online.
Everyone at a business facility or worksite must wear a face covering at all times (except very young children, people for whom face coverings are medically inadvisable, or for communication by or with people who are hearing impaired).
Everyone must comply with the Face Covering Guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health, which requires most people to wear a face covering most of the time whenever they leave home.
All businesses must limit the number of people who may be at the facility at the same time. For staff members, the limit is 1 person per 250 gross square feet of indoor facility space (this means total space, including areas open only to staff like storage rooms). For customers, the limit is 1 person per 150 square feet of indoor space open to the public. The density requirements tell businesses how many people (staff or clients) they can let into their facility before another person leaves. Children under 12 who are accompanying a parent or guardian do not count against the limit, but everyone age 12 and over does.
The Health Officer will issue a set of mandatory directives with rules to reduce risk in the for specific industries and activities listed below. All businesses and people in the County must follow these directives, as well as the industry-specific guidance issued by the State. County mandatory directives by industry are available from the Public Health Department.
- Personal Services, including hair and nail salons, massage therapy, and other body care services
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Construction
- Recreational and athletic activities
- Gatherings, including for social, economic, religious, cultural, and other purposes
- Agriculture
- Hotels and motels
- Public transit
- Childcare, summer camps, and children’s activities
- Pools
- Outdoor dining
- Food facilities
Flexible Business Operation Guidelines for All Permitted Businesses
Now that the County Public Health Officer has relaxed operational restrictions for business allowed to operate under State and County Health Orders including retail, restaurant businesses and general business operations to encourage economic recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Council has authorized relaxation of the City’s development standards and permit processes to temporarily allow greater allowances for business operations. These Guidelines will serve as land use allowances until such time as the County Public Health Officer Order is discontinued or the City determines that such operational expansions are no longer warranted.
Business Operations for Campbell Avenue Street Closure
Businesses wishing to expand into the street must apply for an Encroachment Permit with the Public Works Department. See the Flexible Business Operation Guidelines for allowances, restrictions and how to apply for an encroachment permit.
Permit Process
An Encroachment Permit issued by the Public Works Department will be required for the temporary use of Campbell Avenue. Application processing fees will be waived in an effort to minimize business expenses necessary to support economic recovery efforts. Instructions on how to apply for an Encroachment Permit are included in this document. Provided permit applications are complete, permits can be processed in 1-2 business days from submittal.
Apply for an Encroachment Permit
Operations on Public Sidewalks
All permitted businesses in the Downtown area are eligible to expand business operations onto public sidewalks provided that enough space can accommodate outdoor business operations and provide access for pedestrians and people with disabilities. Outdoor business activity may be located beyond the applicant’s occupied tenant space and in front of an adjacent tenant space upon the written approval of that tenant. An Outdoor Display (includes all business services) or Outdoor Dining Permit will be required for the creation of or expansion to an existing display/dining area. The application processing fees will be waived. Contact the Community Development Department at planning@campbellca.gov to get started. See the Flexible Business Operation Guidelines for more details.
How to Apply
Contact the Planning Division to get started.
Email: planning@campbellca.gov
Phone: 408-866-2140
Operations on Private Property - Downtown Campbell
All permitted businesses may expand their operations within private parking lots and private common areas adjacent to their business locations. While no permits are required for outdoor business operations within private parking lots and private common areas, written approval from property owners is required for use of private property. See the Flexible Business Operation Guidelines for more details.
Flexible Business Operation Guidelines - Private Property Beyond Downtown Campbell
These guidelines apply to commercial retail and restaurant businesses located and operated entirely on private property. Both retail and restaurant businesses are eligible to take advantage of these allowances thereby creating improved flexibility from any previously established land use entitlements received for the particular business. Although these are City-established guidelines, tenants will need property owner permission to implement such allowances. No city permits are required for expansion within private property. More information is available in the Flexible Business Operation Guidelines for Private Property.
SBA Loans Update
COVID-19 Recovery Information in Other Languages
The SBA is providing materials in other languages to help business owners with recovery efforts. Visit SBA.Gov for details.
Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application
On May 15, the Small Business Administration and U.S. Treasury Department released the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application. The form and its instructions inform borrowers how to apply for forgiveness of their PPP loans, consistent with the CARES Act. SBA will also soon issue regulations and guidance to further assist borrowers as they complete their applications, and to provide lenders with guidance on their responsibilities. The form and instructions include several ways to reduce compliance burdens and simplify the process for borrowers. Visit SBA.Gov for details and access the application.
SBA Resumes Acceptance of Paycheck Protection Program Loan Applications
On April 27, the Small Business Administration resumed accepting applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on payroll. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. More details about the PPP loan program are available at SBA.Gov. You can also contact your lender for details.
As for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and EIDL loan advances, SBA is unable to accept new applications at this time as federal funding is not available. Applicants who have already submitted their applications will continue to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. More information is available from the SBA’s website. You can also contact your lender.
For PPP loans, apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. Other regulated lenders will be available to make these loans once they are approved and enrolled in the program. Consult with your local lender as to whether it is participating in the program. Find local lenders with the SBA’s Eligible Lender Map Tool to get started. Apply online and check application status on the SBA Loan Application Portal. The Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley can assist with applying for loans at no cost.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Resources
- SBA Loan Application Portal
- FAQ’s for Lenders and Borrowers
- FAQ’s for Faith Based Organizations
- How to Calculate Loan Amounts
- Information for Borrowers
- Application for Borrowers
- Information for Lenders
- Find a Lender
- Local SBA Partners Providing Loan Application Assistance
- Guidance for Businesses and Employers from the SBA
- Online Resources Provided by the Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley
- U.S. Treasury Dept. Resource Web page
Other Small Business Relief Options Provided by the SBA
Debt Relief
As part of our coronavirus debt relief efforts, the SBA will pay 6 months of principal, interest, and any associated fees that borrowers owe for all current 7(a), 504, and microloans in regular servicing status as well as new 7(a), 504, and microloans disbursed prior to September 27, 2020. This relief is not available for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans or Economic Injury Disaster loans (EIDL). Borrowers do not need to apply for this assistance. It will be automatically provided based on specific criteria. Visit SBA.Gov for more information. You can also contact your lender for details.
Express Bridge Loan
The Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program allows small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly. These loans can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing and can be a term loan or used to bridge the gap while applying for a direct SBA Economic Injury Disaster loan. If a small business has an urgent need for cash while waiting for decision and disbursement on an Economic Injury Disaster Loan, they may qualify for an SBA Express Disaster Bridge Loan. More information is available from SBA.Gov. The Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley can assist with applying for loans at no cost. You can also contact your lender for details.
Contact Information
For updates on SBA loan information or if you have specific questions, contact the SBA’s District Office in San Francisco:
- Phone: 415-744-6820
- Email: sfomail@sba.gov
You can also contact the Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley for assistance:
Phone: 408-385-9800
More information about local SBA partners is available by clicking the Local Resources tab below.
Alternatives to SBA Loans
For alternative options to SBA loans, click the "Grants" tab below to learn about small business grants and no-interest and low-interest loan opportunities.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES)
Phase III of the federal government’s financial response to COVID-19, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) provides $2 trillion allocated for businesses, individuals, federal agencies, and state and local governments. The CARES Act has been designed to distribute capital quickly and broadly. There are a number of provisions that impact small businesses. Visit the SBA’s Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources for a full list of financial assistance options. Specific assistance programs are summarized below. Access the Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act from the Small Business Development Center.
Silicon Valley Community Foundation Small Business Relief Fund
Hosted by Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the Small Business Relief Fund will provide immediate support to struggling self-employed and small business owners. SVCF will partner with Opportunity Fund, California’s largest nonprofit micro-lender, to ensure critical capital remains available to these entities throughout this crisis. More information about the Small Business Relief Fund is available from the Silicon Valley community Foundation.
Opportunity Fund
Opportunity Fund offers simple and affordable loans for business owners who may not qualify for traditional financing. Provide loans to under-served small business owners, including minority and women-owned businesses in low-income communities. Applicants may qualify for between $2,600 to $250,000, depending on the type of loan. Micro loans, which are typically $50,000 or less, may also be available. Loan terms range from 12 to 60 months.
Loans can be used for working capital, equipment purchases, tenant improvements, commercial vehicle purchases (excluding ride share cars), debt refinancing (such as merchant cash advances and tax liens), opening a new location, purchasing another business, and more. Call a loan consultant at 866-299-8173 or visit Opportunityfund.org for more information.
Grants and No Interest or Low-Interest Loans
- $10,000 small business grants from Salesforce Care Small Business Grants. Visit Salesforce.com to sign up for info
- $15 Million Small Business Grants Program for Bay Area small businesses from Facebook. Learn about eligibility and sign up to receive information and be notified when applications are available at Facebook.com
- $5,000 Grants for Women-Owned Small Businesses from the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation’s Red Backpack Fund. Visit GlobalGiving.org to sign up for email updates. *Next Application Period Opens July 6*
- $500 Matching Grants from Go Fund Me
- No Interest Loans up to $15,000 by Kiva.org
- No Interest Loans from ICA Fund *ICA is in the process of raising funds to create a $5 million fund*
- Grants and Crowd Funding Opportunities from I Fund Women.com
- Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund by the James Beard Foundation
- Small Business Loans Between $5,000 & $500,000 from PayPal
- Small business Recovery Grants up to $10,000 from Verizon Sign up to get info via email on the next application period
- Competitive Small Business Grant Awards from $10,000 to $50,000 from Hello Alice and Verizon Apply Here ASAP
IRS Tax Relief for Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
Employee Retention Credit
The is a refundable tax credit against certain employment taxes equal to 50% of the qualified wages an eligible employer pays to employees after March 12, 2020, and before January 1, 2021. Visit IRS.Gov for details.
Deferral of Employment Tax Deposits and Payments
CARES Act allows employers to defer the deposit and payment of the employer’s share of Social Security taxes and self-employed individuals to defer payment of certain self-employment taxes. Visit IRS.Gov for details.
Net Operating Losses
Any business that claimed a loss in tax year 2018, 2019, or 2020, may be able to carry that loss back five years. Filing an amended tax return may generate immediate refunds. More information is available at IRS.Gov. For net operating losses arising in 2018, taxpayers have until June 30, 2020, to file Form 1045 or 1139 where applicable under Section 6411 for a refund. Read IRS Notice 2020-26 for details.
Employee Retention Tax Credit
As part of the CARES Act, the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service launched the Employee Retention Credit on March 31, which is designed to incentivize employers of all sizes that face closure orders or suffer economic hardship caused by COVID-19 to keep employees on their payroll. The refundable tax credit is 50% on up to $10,000 of wages paid or incurred from March 13, 2020 through December 31, 2020. More information about this tax credit including eligibility and FAQ’s is available from the IRS and Treasury Department.
Other Tax Credits for Small and Midsize Businesses FAQ’s
Payroll Tax Deferral
To enhance cash flow so businesses can better maintain operations and payroll, employers and self-employed individuals can defer payment of the employer share of the Social Security tax they otherwise are responsible for paying to the federal government with respect to their employees. The deferred employment tax can be paid over the next two years—with half of the required amount to be paid by December 31, 2021 and the other half by December 31, 2022. The CARES Act also provides
Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) signed into Law on March 18, 2020
- Phase II of the federal government’s financial response to COVID-19
- This assistance applies to businesses with more than 50 employees and less than 500 employees
Benefits for Employees
- Normal FMLA is unpaid, but under the FFCRA, employees who are on sick leave because they are sick can receive their full pay, up to $511 per day, or $5,110 total.
- Leave taken to care for children whose schools or day care facilities have closed is paid at two-thirds the employee’s regular rate of pay, with a maximum of $200 per day or $10,000 total.
- Employers cannot force you to use up your vacation or other sick time before receiving this benefit.
- There is a 10-day waiting period before this benefit applies. Employees can use existing sick or vacation time to cover these days.
Benefits for Employers
- Employers receive tax credits for 100 percent of what they pay out to employees, with the above-noted limits.
- For employers with 50 or fewer employees, the Secretary of Labor can exempt the business from these requirements.
- Employers with fewer than 25 employees do not have to restore employees to their previous positions.
IRS Income Tax Payment Deadline Extended to July 15, 2020
The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service are providing special payment relief to individuals and businesses in response to the COVID-19 Outbreak. Income tax payment deadlines for individual returns, with a due date of April 15, 2020, are being automatically extended until July 15, 2020, for up to $1 million of their 2019 tax due. This payment relief applies to all individual returns, including self-employed individuals, and all entities other than C-Corporations, such as trusts or estates. IRS will automatically provide this relief to taxpayers. Taxpayers do not need to file any additional forms or call the IRS to qualify for this relief. The IRS urges taxpayers who are owed a refund to file as quickly as possible. For those who can’t file by the April 15, 2020 deadline, the IRS reminds individual taxpayers that everyone is eligible to request a six-month extension to file their return. Visit IRS.gov got more details on this relief and additional information.
Banking
On March 9, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) encouraged banks and financial institutions to help meet the needs of customers and members affected by the coronavirus. That could include waiving fees on late or missed credit card or loan payments, and waiving early withdrawal penalties for out-of-work savers who need access to money locked up in CD’s for example.
Check with you bank or financial institution on assistance available to your business or visit the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for additional information.
Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (Go-Biz)
The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) has compiled helpful information for employers, employees, and all Californians as it relates to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Some of that information is provided below while additional resources are available at the Go-Biz website.
New Employment Assistance Platform OnwardCA.org Now Available
Launched on April 2, 2020, OwardCA.org is a one-stop resource for workers displaced by COVID-19 to help them find job opportunities in critical industries. Onward CA also connects displaced workers to resources for essential life services like food and shelter and retraining for new job opportunities. Onward CA is an initiative between Governor Newsom and a coalition of companies, foundations and people. Additional resources for employees is available by clicking the State Resources tab below.
Cal/OSHA
Workplace safety and health regulations in California require employers to protect workers exposed to airborne infectious diseases such as the coronavirus. Cal/OSHA has posted guidance to help employers comply with these safety requirements and to provide workers information on how to protect themselves. Visit Cal/OSHA for details.
Labor and Workforce Development Agency
While investigations to learn more about the virus are ongoing, workers and employers should review their health and safety procedures to help prevent exposure to the virus. The Labor & Workforce Development Agency (LWDA) provides guidance and resources for workers and employers.
Treasurer’s Office
Small Business Resource List
The Treasurer’s Office maintains a Small Business Resource List that includes financial assistance such as loans, grants and services from federal, state and non-profit organizations with links to resources and provider contact information. View the list here. Visit the Treasurer’s Office for more assistance options and information.
Resources for Employees
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program
Created by the CARES Act, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program, provides federally funded benefits for certain individuals out of work or partially unemployed individuals who are not eligible for regular unemployment insurance (UI) and who are unable or unavailable to work due to COVID-19 related circumstances. Examples of such individuals include self-employed individuals, independent contractors and individuals who lack sufficient work history. California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) is scheduled to begin accepting online applications for PUA benefits beginning Tuesday, April 28. Visit the Labor and Workforce Development Agency for information on eligibility, benefits, FAQ’s and more.
Paid Sick Leave
For answers to questions regarding sick leave resulting from COVID-19, read Paid Sick Leave FAQ’s provided by the Labor Commissioner’s Office.
Disability Insurance
Workers who are sick or quarantined due to COVID-19 exposure that is certified by a medical professional can file Disability Insurance (DI) claims.
Paid Family Leave
Employees unable to work due to caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional) can file a Paid Family Leave (PFL) claim. PFL provides up to six weeks of benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.
Unemployment Insurance
If your employer has reduced your hours or shut down operations due to COVID-19, file an Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim. UI provides partial wage replacement benefit payments to workers who lose their jobs or have their hours reduced, through no fault of their own. Workers who are temporarily unemployed due to COVID-19 and expected to return to work with their employer within a few weeks are not required to actively seek work each week. However, they must remain able and available and ready to work during their unemployment for each week of benefits claimed and meet all other eligibility criteria. Eligible individuals can receive benefits that range from $40-$450 per week.
Resources for Employers
Business Interruption Insurance FAQ’s
The California Department of Insurance recognizes that COVID-19 is affecting many businesses throughout the state. With many businesses experiencing severe interruption, the Department is issuing guidance for businesses regarding insurance coverage and particularly about Business Interruption Insurance coverage. Business Interruption Insurance is optional coverage that may be purchased as part of a comprehensive multi-peril commercial policy. To read the FAQ’s and access resources, visit the Insurance Commissioner’s Office at Insurance.CA.Gov
Reduced Work Hours
Employers experiencing a slowdown in their businesses or services as a result of the coronavirus impact on the economy may apply for the UI Work Sharing Program. This program allows employers to seek an alternative to layoffs — retaining their trained employees by reducing their hours and wages that can be partially offset with UI benefits. Workers of employers who are approved to participate in the Work Sharing Program receive the percentage of their weekly UI benefit amount based on the percentage of hours and wages reduced, not to exceed 60 percent.
Potential Closure & Layoffs
Employers planning a closure or major layoffs as a result of the coronavirus can get help through the Rapid Response program. Rapid Response teams will meet with you to discuss your needs, help avert potential layoffs, and provide immediate on-site services to assist workers facing job losses. Refer to the Rapid Response Services for Businesses Face Sheet for details or contact the nearest American Job Center of California at the Work2Future office in San Jose.
Tax Assistance
Employers experiencing a hardship as a result of COVID-19 may request up to a 60-day extension of time from the Employment Development Department (EDD) to file their state payroll reports and/or deposit state payroll taxes without penalty or interest. A written request for extension must be received within 60 days from the original delinquent date of the payment or return.
For questions, employers may call the EDD Taxpayer Assistance Center:
Toll-free from the U.S. or Canada: 1-888-745-3886
Hearing impaired (TTY): 1-800-547-9565
Outside the U.S. or Canada: 1-916-464-3502
Franchise Tax Board
As of March 18, 2020, the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is postponing until July 15 the filing and payment deadlines for all individuals and business entities for:
- 2019 tax returns
- 2019 tax return payments
- 2020 1st and 2nd quarter estimate payments
- 2020 LLC taxes and fees
- 2020 Non-wage withholding payments
California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
Pursuant to Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-40-20 issued March 30, all taxpayers who file a return less than $1 Million dollars will have an additional 3 months to file their return between now and July 31, 2020.If you qualify for this extension it is automatic and you do not need to apply for the extension.
If your tax liability is $1 million or more, you may still request an extension if you are unable to file and pay timely. These requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and taxpayers will be notified if their extension has been approved or denied.
Effective April 2, 2020, small business taxpayers, those with less than $5 million in taxable annual sales, can take advantage of a 12-month, interest-free, payment plan for up to $50,000 of sales and use tax liability. Payment plan requests can be made through CDTFA’s Online Services Portal in the coming months.
To view new tax filing due dates or request extensions to file tax payments, claims for refunds and tax appeals, visit CDTFA’s website for details.
Office of the Small Business Advocate
The Office of the Small Business Advocate (OSBA) specialists help small business owners navigate California rules and regulations and educate about state programs and incentives. OSBA has a network of small business centers throughout the state to offer consulting and training and access to capital. Contact a specialist directly from here.
The following agencies and organizations can assist your business:
- A New America Women’s Business Center
- Minority Business Development Agency
- Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley
- Small Business Development Center Hispanic Satellite
- SCORE
California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (I-BANK)
I-Bank offers loan programs for businesses affected by disasters in California. I-Bank, a unit within the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), offers the following loan programs for businesses from one to 750 employees:
Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program
I-Bank issues loan guarantees up to 95 percent of the loan through its partner Financial Development Corporations to help small business borrowers who were impacted by disasters or public safety power shutoffs, and who need term loans or lines of credit for working capital. Small businesses, including small farms, nurseries, agriculture-related enterprises and nonprofits that have suffered an economic loss and/or physical damage may apply. This disaster program will help lenders and small businesses by providing loan guarantees of up to $1 million for small business borrowers in declared disaster areas.
Jump Start Loan Program
I-Bank offers loans from $500 to $10,000 to low-wealth entrepreneurs in the declared disaster and emergency areas through its Jump Start Loan Program. This small loan and financial literacy/technical assistance program designed for low-income small businesses in low-wealth communities, including businesses owned by women, minorities, veterans, people with disabilities and those previously incarcerated. Access to I-Bank’s Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program and Jump Start Loan Program can be made through its partner Financial Development Corporations (FDC’s)
For more information on how to apply, visit the I-Bank’s Small Business Finance Center.
California Capital Access Program
The California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) for Small Business encourages banks and other financial institutions to make loans to small businesses that have difficulty obtaining financing. If you own a small business and need a loan for start-up, expansion or working capital, you may receive more favorable loan terms from a lender if your loan is enrolled in the CalCAP Loan Loss Reserve Program. Loans are available up to $5 million.
CalCAP is a loan loss reserve program which may provide up to 100% coverage on losses as a result of certain loan defaults. With CalCAP portfolio support, a lender may be more comfortable underwriting small business loans.
If your financial institution does not currently participate, it is easy for lenders to sign up. Your institution must complete the Financial Institution Application and send to CalCAP to get started.
To find a participating lender, visit the California State Treasurer’s Office website.
Financial Institution Application available at the California State Treasurer’s Office website. Email completed applications to calcap@treasurer.gov.
Updated Shelter-in-Place Order Takes Effect June 5
Beginning June 5, certain additional businesses and activities can resume in compliance with restrictions in the updated shelter-in-place order issued by the public health officer June 1. There are no changes to the social distancing protocol businesses must follow. This new order takes effect at 12:01 AM Friday, June 5 and will remain in effect until the health officer amends or rescinds it. This new health order replaces the previous shelter-in-place order that took effect on May 22.
What’s New?
New categories of businesses and activities are allowed to resume, subject to specific conditions and restrictions. Key restrictions will remain in place such as requiring people to stay in their homes except when engaging in certain essential or allowed activities. The activities and businesses allowed to reopen under the new order are referred to as “Additional Businesses” and “Additional Activities” and are explained in Appendix C-1 and Appendix C-2 respectively. Important changes to the social distancing protocol requirements for all operating businesses are included in the updated Social Distancing Protocol.
Additional Businesses
- Outdoor dining at restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food, subject to guidelines and social distancing
- Retail and shopping centers for in-store shopping, subject to limitations/social distancing
- Childcare, summer camps, summer school, and all other educational or recreational programs for all children, in stable groups of up to 12 children
- All manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics, subject to limitations/social distancing
- House cleaning and other no-contact in-home services
- Low contact/no contact service businesses such as shoe repair, watch repair, and other similar services, subject to limitations/social distancing
- All pet grooming
"What’s Open?" is a complete list of businesses and activities currently allowed to operate or allowed to operate beginning June 5.
Additional Activities
- Outdoor small ceremonies and religious services, in groups no larger than 25
- All outdoor recreational activities that do not involve physical contact, with social distancing, including swimming pools, hiking, tennis, golf, etc.
- Camping, subject to limitations/social distancing
- Drive-in Theaters and other car-based gatherings
Social Distancing Protocol
- There are no changes to the Social Distancing Protocol (Appendix A to the Order)
- To operate, all businesses must complete a Social Distancing Protocol using the provided template
- To show that they are implementing the Social Distancing Protocol to keep their staff and customers safe from COVID-19, all businesses must print and post in a prominent place near the entrance to the businesses:
1. A "COVID-19 Prepared" Sign (Included in the Social Distancing Protocol)
2. A Social Distancing Protocol Visitor Information Sheet (Included in the Social Distancing Protocol)
- All businesses must post signage required in the Social Distancing Protocol to educate customers about health and safety requirements. Sign templates are available from the County Public Health Department.
Construction Project Safety Protocols
The Construction Project Safety Protocol in Appendix B-1 and B-2 have changed as follows:
- The threshold for an essential infrastructure project subject to the Large Construction Project Safety Protocol has changed from five workers to 20 workers. All essential infrastructure projects with less than 20 workers present at the job site at any one time are now subject to the Small Construction Project Safety Protocol in Appendix B-1.
- Appendix B-1 now specifies that specified steps must be taken if a worker at a construction site tests positive for COVID-19, and both appendices now state that COVID-19 cases associated with construction must be immediately reported to the County Public Health Department by both telephone and by email.
Resources
- "What’s Open?"
- Executive Summary of Shelter in Place Order
- Full Shelter in Place Order
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Guidelines for Outdoor Dining
- Guidelines for Summer Camps
- Social Distancing Protocol (Appendix A)
- Additional Businesses Requirements (Appendix C-1)
- Additional Activities Requirements (Appendix C-2)
- Small Construction Project Safety Protocol (Appendix B-1)
- Large Construction Project Safety Protocol (Appendix B-2)
- County Public Health Department Resources
Property Tax Payment Relief
On May 6, Governor Newsom signed an executive order waiving penalties for property taxes paid after April 10 for taxpayers who demonstrate they have experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic through May 6, 2021. This relief applies to residential properties and small businesses. The executive order also extends the deadline for certain businesses to file Business Personal Property Statements to May 31, 2020, to avoid penalties. View FAQ’s on property tax collection at the Department of Tax and Collections. The County Office of the Assessor’s Business Division provides details on Business Personal Property Statements.
County Board of Supervisors Approves Moratorium on Residential and Commercial Evictions
On March 24, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors enacted a moratorium on "no-fault" evictions and evictions for non-payment of rent for residential and commercial tenants resulting from a substantial loss of income and/or substantial out-of-pocket medical costs caused by COVID-19. The moratorium applies to all cities countywide and is supported by Governor Newsom’s Executive Order issued on March 16, 2020. The County’s moratorium will last until May 31, 2020, unless extended or repealed by the County.
While the ordinance neither relieves a tenant of the obligation to pay rent nor restricts a landlord’s ability to recover rent due, the measure does prevent evictions from occurring in the midst of this crisis. Key aspects of the ordinance include:
- Prohibits eviction for failure to pay rent for renters financially affected by the COVID-19 crisis
- Applies to both residential and small business commercial rentals
- Applies to renters who can document “substantial loss” as a result of the COVID-19 crisis
- Landlords cannot charge or collect late fees for rent delayed while the ordinance is in effect and 120 days after its expiration
Information for Landlords
Per the County’s moratorium, a landlord who initiates an eviction for non-payment of rent or a no-fault cause during the moratorium, must:
- Provide tenants with the Reason for Termination of Tenancy or Eviction stating the reason for the eviction and notice of the tenants’ rights when serving the notice of termination; and
- Provide resources for rental assistance programs
Landlords still have a right to collect rent if the tenant qualifies for protection under the moratorium. However, the tenant has until 120 days after the moratorium expires to repay rent and the landlord cannot charge a late fee This moratorium does not apply to otherwise lawful or at-fault evictions for reasons other than non-payment of rent due to a substantial loss and/or out-of-pocket medical expense caused by COVID-19.
Information for Tenants
Per the County’s moratorium, renters can provide the Notice to Landlord of Eviction Protection with documentation of substantial income loss and/or substantial out-of-pocket medical expenses caused by COVID-19 as soon as possible.
Examples of substantial loss of income due to COVID-19 include:
Job loss or reduced work hours
Missed work to care for a family member infected with COVID-19 or a child due to school closure
If the business qualifies as a small business, closure of a place of business or substantial decrease in business income
Examples of documentation tenants can provide include:
Letters from your employer, a doctor, or your child’s school citing COVID-19 as the reason for reduced work, missing work, or school closure
Paycheck stubs from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Bank statements showing your financial situation before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Landlords must provide tenants with the Reason for Termination of Tenancy or Eviction explaining why they are being evicted, and what their rights are, as well as assistance programs if landlords try to evict tenants.
County Moratorium Resources
Forms, frequently asked questions and resources for tenants and landlords regarding the eviction moratorium are available from the County of Santa Clara and include:
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reason for Termination of Tenancy
- Notice to Landlord of Eviction Protection
- Renter Assistance Resource Programs
- County Eviction Moratorium Web Page
- Full text of the ordinance is available from the County Board of Supervisors
A New America Women’s Business Center
ANew America Women’s Business Center provides training, counseling and other support services to help women entrepreneurs start and successfully grow their businesses. Consulting appointments will be handled via web meeting or phone. To schedule an appointment, visit the New America Women’s Business Center’s website. Information about the business center’s services and response to COVID-19 is available here.
Google for Small Business
Google provides tips and recommendations including modifying your business’ Google advertising campaign to help your business through this crisis. Visit Google for Small Business for information.
ICA Fund
The ICA Fund of Oakland is a certified Community Development Financial Institutions Fund by U.S. Treasury Department. ICA educates, advises and provides access to capital for businesses. ICA is in the process of raising funds to support its Rapid Response Liquidity Fund with a goal of $5 million. Learn about eligibility, how to apply and more at ICAFundGoodJobs.org.
SCORE
SCORE is a national non-profit organization operating under the auspices of the SBA and provides mentoring and education to small business owners at no cost and workshops and seminars at a modest cost. SCORE’s volunteer mentors are experienced successful business owners, and former corporate and non-profit executives Visit SCORE”s Silicon Valley office website to get started.
Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley
In addition to helping small business owners prepare and apply for SBA assistance loans, the Silicon Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides the following online resources to help small business owners get started:
Online Webinars led by financial and business experts and advisers regrading:
- Managing tight cash flow
- Preparing and applying for Economic Disaster Injury Loans
- Restaurants, bars and hospitality business management and assistance
View pre-recorded webinars now via the Silicon Valley Small Business Development Center
Visit the SBDC for additional resources including:
- Overview to the Paycheck Protection Program
- Small Business Owners Guide to the CARES Act
- Online webinars for Coping with COVID-19
- Guide to COVID-19 loans and forms
- Small Business Survival Guide
- Federal and state resources and FAQ’s
Contact Information
Small business owners who have questions and need assistance with loan applications, please contact the Small Business Administration’s San Francisco District Office, which serves the Bay Area or the Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley.
Small Business Administration, San Francisco Office
Phone: 415-744-6820
Email: sfomail@sba.gov
Small Business Development Center of Silicon Valley
Phone: 408-385-9800
Small Business Majority
Small Business Majority is a national small business advocacy organization, founded and run by small business owners to ensure America’s entrepreneurs are a key part of a thriving and inclusive economy. SBM actively engages small business owners and policymakers in support of public policy solutions, and deliver information and resources to entrepreneurs that promote small business growth and drive a strong, sustainable job-creating economy. Visit SmallBusinessmajority.org to learn more.
View the Small Business Majority’s archived webinar from March 30, 2020 that covers federal and state assistance for small businesses from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, the Small Business Development Center, Opportunity Fund and the Small Business Majority. View other archived webinars and upcoming events from Small Business Majority.
Utility Companies Suspending Disconnection of Service
Pacific Gas and Electric and The San Jose Water Company have suspended service disconnections for non-payment of gas, electric and water service until further notice. More information on how each agency can assist customers and their responses to COVID-19 are available at PGE.com and SJWater.com. Per Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-28-20, the Public Utilities Commission monitors public and private utility providers’ customer service protections for critical utilities like electricity, gas, water, internet, and landline and cell phone service. Executive Order N-42-20 restricts water service shutoff to homes and small businesses while the state responds to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The following online events are to inform and educate small businesses on accessing capital and additional resources, as well as responding to and mitigating disaster impacts. Most online events are free, but some may charge a nominal registration fee. If you cannot attend an event you have registered for, please cancel your reservation so that someone else can attend.
June 30
Idea Magnets: Attracting Innovative Ideas to Pivot and Restart Your Business
Learn quick and easy ways to dependably attract amazing ideas to help you pivot and restart your business. You’ll learn actionable methods and steps including new ways to deliver brand benefits, how to generate innovative ideas, leverage other business models for ideas and more.
Host: State Treasurer Fiona Ma and The Brainzooming Group
Time: 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
July 7
Laid off and Furloughed Employee Webinar
Host: Work2Future and the California Employment Development Department
Time: 11:00 AM
Note: This event occurs every Tuesday at 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
Contact
Michael Thomas, Economic Development Specialist
Phone: 408-866-2192 Email: michaelt@campbellca.gov