As the COVID-19 crisis continues to affect our lives and business operations, both employers and employees are navigating in uncharted territory. Recent legislation has made several benefits available to certain employees affected by the crisis. In a time when questions abound and answers may feel in short supply, we want to share a valuable resource with employers that will help you provide your employees with details on their available benefits and options.
How might my business use the resources below?
These letters were designed to be used in the manner that best suits your business needs. You may choose to use your letter when employees have questions or need clarity, or you may choose to use it as a proactive notification to all employees. The resources included below are for public use, so you may remove the ARB branding, if desired.
Some eligibility for the benefits available to employees in response to the COVID-19 crisis will depend on whether your business (including combined groups, as defined by the DOL) falls above or below the 500 employee threshold. We have included separate letters for your use in either scenario.
If your business has 500 OR FEWER employees, choose the following letter:
Employee Letter – Available Benefits – 500 or Fewer Employees
This letter covers the eligibility and benefits of available provisions for your employees under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. These include Emergency Paid Sick Leave and Emergency Family Medical Leave.
The letter also covers the eligibility and benefits of available provisions for your employees under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Recovery Act. These include Recovery Rebates, Expanded Unemployment Benefits, and Retirement Distributions & Loans, as well as additional considerations.
If your business has 500 OR MORE employees, choose the following letter:
Employee Letter – Available Benefits – 500 or More Employees
This letter covers the eligibility and benefits of available provisions for your employees under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Recovery Act. These include Recovery Rebates, Expanded Unemployment Benefits, and Retirement Distributions & Loans, as well as additional considerations.
This letter also explains that provisions under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, including Emergency Paid Sick Leave and Emergency Family Medical Leave, are not available to employees of an employer with more than 500 employees.
Contact ARB
ARB is committed to keeping our clients and community up-to-date on legislative changes through and beyond the COVID-19 crisis. Please contact us for additional information, or with any questions about these resources or related matters.
by Matthew Pore, CPA
