Unfortunately, the status of this program is somewhat tentative in that the Infrastructure Bill before Congress would strike the program (yet industry groups are advocating for the continuation of the program via the Build Back Better bill).  So, what should businesses contemplating applying for the tax credit do?

This program’s funds were to be used to pay employees and cover costs associated with remaining in business.  A unique feature of this program was the ability to have some or all of the debt forgiven as long as the borrower provided their lender and the SBA with proof the proceeds were used as required in the approval guidelines. 

All small business owners understand the theory of maintaining a positive cash flow in order to keep their businesses afloat.  Slow or non-existent sales and/or ever-increasing expenses cause a shortfall in available capital.  This lack of capital severely impacts their ability to respond to opportunities for growth as they are unable to purchase the equipment and or inventory necessary to meet the increased demand these opportunities bring.  Unfortunately, in every case, reality trumps theory.