Note: Obviously this is no longer a thing. But it’s here as a reminder that government programs actually can and do relate to artists. Its ok to run a business, and think like one.
My CPA called me out of the blue yesterday and just walked me through the disaster relief application and I recommend everyone apply for it. Whether you have an incorporated business or just file as a sole proprietor, you are eligible.
It’s a $10,000 SBA loan that you don’t repay. Yes, you read that right.
“The loan advance will provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. This loan advance will not have to be repaid.“
sba.gov/page/disaster-loan-applications
4/10/2020 UPDATE: The SBA may be changing the rules after opening up the program. Please know it’s possible you will be limited to $1,000 per employee. It’s unclear at this time. As of today many have applied and no one has received benefits.
There are multiple kinds of SBA loans, so it can be confusing as to if there is one that applies to you. Mostly the press is writing about the one that applies to a lot of retail small businesses, which is a payroll loan. So you might have heard about that one and if your a freelancer figured there wasn’t anything for you. Not true! The EIDL is the loan I’m talking about.
I’ve recorded a 5 min video of the first part of my applying online and included the tips that my CPA passed on to me. This is one of the simplest loan applications you’ll ever see, it’s actually really quick to do. You only need two numbers from your last tax return, and I explain on the video what the are an where to get them on your return if you file as a business.
One thing not in the video, there is one category of Business Activity that might apply better to some of you than what I used on the video. “Entertainment Services” which gives you a few subsection “Detailed Business Activity” options that include “Art Galleries“, “Entertainment Venue“, and “Event Planning“. I might have used Entertainment Services > Event Planning instead, but not sure it will make a difference.
Here is a link directly to the form: https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/
Please let everyone know in the comments if and when you’ve received this funding and how long it took. It is supposed to be the fastest of all the SBA loans, as in you might get the funds within weeks. But I’d like to see if that happens for anyone. I applied on April 3rd, and I’ll update this when my funds come through.
Pass this on to any artist you know who could use $10,000. Stay safe everyone!