Swift SBF’s Comprehensive Guide to ERC Bridge Financing
Swift SBF's Comprehensive Guide to ERC Bridge Financing
In a world where small businesses face ongoing challenges like cash flow shortages, supply chain disruptions, high-interest rates, and limited access to capital, the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) has emerged as a crucial lifeline. However, the IRS's processing time for ERC claims can stretch up to a daunting eight months. In this comprehensive guide, Swift SBF dives deep into the benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and other considerations surrounding ERC Bridge Financing – a financial solution designed to empower businesses by providing immediate access to their ERC funds, bypassing the IRS's lengthy processing time.
Understanding the Employee Retention Credit (ERC)
The Employee Retention Credit is a refundable tax credit program introduced under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) in 2020. Its primary purpose is to incentivize employers to continue paying their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligibility criteria for the ERC include businesses that received local, state, or federal government orders for a complete or partial shutdown or experienced a significant decline in gross receipts.
For Q2, Q3, and Q4 of 2020, the decline in gross receipts must have been at least 50% compared to 2019. For Q1, Q2, and Q3 of 2021, the decline in gross receipts must have been at least 20% compared to 2019. The value of the ERC for Q2, Q3, or Q4 of 2020 is 50% of up to $10,000 in wages paid per employee. The total for the 2020 year is capped at $5,000 per employee. For Q1 – Q3 of 2021, the value of the ERC is 70% of up to $10,000 in wages paid per employee, bringing the total value of the ERC to an impressive $26,000 per employee. The IRS applies the credit to the employer's portion of social security tax and treats the excess as an overpayment.
ERC Bridge Financing: A Timely Solution
ERC Bridge Financing, often referred to as an ERC Advance Loan, is a specialized financial product tailored for businesses that are eligible for the ERC program and have submitted an ERC claim with the IRS. This innovative solution allows employers to receive a cash advance on a portion of their ERC funds, thereby mitigating the impact of the IRS's extended processing timeline. Employers qualifying for ERC Bridge Financing can opt for interest-only payments each month until the IRS issues their checks, or they can choose a complete buyout of their ERC claim in exchange for a percentage-based fee. Rates and terms vary based on the lender and employer qualifications.
Key Benefits of ERC Bridge Financing
ERC Bridge Financing offers several pivotal advantages that can make a substantial difference for businesses:
1. Improved Cash Flow
Immediate access to ERC funds significantly bolsters a business's cash flow. This liquidity allows employers to meet critical financial obligations such as payroll, vendor payments, and investments in marketing and growth initiatives.
2. Business Continuity
ERC Bridge Financing enables businesses to maintain seamless operations without resorting to layoffs or scaling back products and services. It ensures business continuity during challenging economic times.
3. Employee Retention
One of the ERC program's primary objectives is to incentivize employers to retain their employees. ERC Bridge Financing helps businesses retain their workforce, ensuring that productivity and employee morale remain high.
4. Potential Tax Deduction
In some cases, businesses may be able to offset lenders' fees paid through ERC Bridge Financing with a tax deduction, providing additional financial relief.
Eligibility Criteria for ERC Bridge Financing
To qualify for ERC Bridge Financing, businesses typically need to meet specific eligibility criteria set by lenders. These criteria may include:
- Compliance with the IRS's ERC guidelines
- Proof of ERC claim submission with the IRS
- A minimum ERC claim value (often around $75,000)
- Operational history since February 2020 or earlier
- Minimum FICO score or lien assessment
- A positive financial track record
The Application Process in Detail
Applying for ERC Bridge Financing involves several critical steps:
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File an ERC Claim with the IRS: If you haven't already, initiate the ERC claim filing process. Businesses can either file independently or partner with a reputable third party like Swift SBF to streamline the process.
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Find a Suitable Lender: ERC Bridge Financing is not available through traditional banks or many small business lenders. Extensive research is essential to identify lenders offering this specialized service.
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Gather Documentation: The application typically requires various documents, including:
- Completed ERC Financing Application (if applying through Swift SBF)
- Third-party ERC agreements and calculations (if applicable)
- IRS Form 941s and IRS Form 941-Xs for each quarter claimed
- IRS Form 8821 and 7216 Consent Form
- Most recent income tax return
- Previous three months' bank statements
- Identification (e.g., driver's license or passport) for all 20% or greater shareholders
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Consult with an ERC Financing Expert: If applying through Swift SBF, our ERC Financing Team will guide you through the application process, clarify the timeline for fund disbursement, determine the loan amount you qualify for, and address any inquiries you may have.
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Accept Loan Terms and Receive Funds: Once your application gains approval, and you accept the loan terms, funds are typically disbursed within 24 hours, although certain banks may take up to three business days.
Additional Considerations for ERC Bridge Financing
It's crucial to note that ERC Bridge Financing is a type of loan, not a grant. Consequently, lenders typically require extensive documentation and conduct thorough due diligence, which may include background checks for liens, UCC filings, outstanding tax debts, and criminal activity. Businesses should be prepared to meet these requirements during the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to receive funds for an ERC Advance?
The process typically results in funds being available within 24 hours, but it may take up to three business days with certain lenders.
2. How can I use ERC Bridge Financing proceeds?
ERC Bridge Financing proceeds can be used to meet various financial obligations, including payroll, vendor payments, marketing, and growth initiatives.
3. Who qualifies for an ERC Bridge Loan or ERC Claim Buyout?
Qualification criteria vary among lenders, but typical requirements include compliance with IRS guidelines, proof of ERC claim submission, and a minimum ERC claim value.
4. Why should I apply for ERC Bridge Financing?
ERC Bridge Financing offers immediate access to ERC funds, improving cash flow, ensuring business continuity, and supporting employee retention. Additionally, some fees may be tax-deductible.
5. What is ERC Bridge Financing, or an ERC Advance?
ERC Bridge Financing, also known as an ERC Advance Loan, is a financial product that provides businesses eligible for the ERC program with a cash advance on a portion of their ERC funds.
Final Thoughts on ERC Bridge Financing
The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and ERC Bridge Financing together form a powerful combination of financial support for eligible businesses. By comprehending the benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and other essential aspects, businesses can make informed decisions about whether ERC Bridge Financing aligns with their financial needs and objectives.
Ready to Explore ERC Bridge Financing?
Take the first step by applying online in less than four minutes. There's no upfront cost, commitment, or impact on your credit score to get started. Swift SBF is here to empower your business with financial solutions tailored to your needs.
https://www.swiftsbf.com/blog/erc-advance-loan-get-your-erc-faster-in-2023
https://www.swiftsbf.com/blog/what-is-an-erc-bridge-loan-and-how-can-it-help-your-business
https://www.swiftsbf.com/blog/ertc-advance
Swift SBF's Comprehensive Guide to ERC Bridge Financing In a world where small businesses face ongoing challenges like cash flow shortages, supply chain disruptions, high-interest rates, and limited access to capital, the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) has emerged as a crucial lifeline. However, the IRS's processing time for ERC claims can stretch up to a…