COVID19: Updates & Resources

Dear Wisconsinites,

We know a healthy economy is dependent on the health of its people. As we adapt to the Governor’s essential #SaferAtHome order, my office is working hard to provide the resources and information Wisconsinites and our small business community need.

Since my last email, there have been a number of emergency orders and actions to protect the economic security of individuals and small businesses during this public health crisis. A few notable updates are:

• Protection from Eviction/Foreclosure. In order to help ensure people are able to stay home and slow the spread of COVID-19, Governor Evers announced a temporary ban on evictions and foreclosures for 60 days. This includes both residential properties, as well as businesses. To read the full document, click here.

• Insurance for Restaurant Delivery Drivers. As many restaurants are adjusting to carry-out and delivery only, the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OCI) directed the insurance industry to cover delivery services on personal auto insurance policies. They must also offer coverage, if requested, for hired drivers and non-owned vehicles on a restaurant’s general liability service – both at no extra cost to policyholders. More information on this order here. 

• Prevention of Utility Shut-offs. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) has directed regulated utilities to stop disconnection for nonpayment for all customers, including commercial, industrial, and farm accounts. They have also halted late fees and eased a number of administrative rules to keep homes and businesses supplied with light, heat, and water. For help with utility disconnections, reach out to the PSC directly here.  

• Sales and Use Tax Extensions. Last week, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that small businesses can immediately request an extension to file sales and use tax returns. This comes along with extending the income tax payment and return due date to July 15th.  DOR has announced a series of steps to ease payment guidelines and postpone audit actions, more information can be found here. 

In addition, there have been updates to resources available through the US Small Business Administration (SBA): 

• SBA Express Bridge Loans. This program allows small businesses who have a current relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 with less paperwork. These loans can help small businesses access capital quickly and can be used to bridge the gap while applying for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan. For a list of Wisconsin SBA Express Lenders, click here. 

• Paycheck Protection Program. This program was rolled out under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and authorizes $349 billion toward job retention loans. They are specifically designed to help small business keep their workforce employed. If you maintain your workforce, the SBA may forgive the portion of the loan proceeds that are used to cover the first 8 weeks of payroll and certain other expenses following loan origination. 

The most current information on eligibility and the application process for all of SBA’s loans can be found at www.sba.gov/coronavirus. 

We know that COVID-19 will continue to impact our lives and our community. We are working with our partners to provide the tools and information Wisconsinites need to help navigate this uncertainty. Please feel free to reach out to my office via email at treasurer@wisconsin.gov with questions. 

We are in this together.