Keeping you informed and prepared amid the coronavirus crisis

The spread of the novel coronavirus presents serious concerns and challenges for many around the world. To help, below we’re gathering the latest news stories along with relevant columns, tips, podcasts, and videos from the Journal of Accountancy. You can also read the latest news on advocacy and tax reliefthe CARES Act, and the Paycheck Protection Program.

The Association, the global voice of the American Institute of CPAs and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, is continually monitoring the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on members, staff, exam candidates, students, and the profession. Visit this page on AICPA.org for updates and details about where to find the information you need.

COVID-19 news and resources

AICPA asks for guidance on S corp. and partnership PPP loan forgiveness

In a letter dated March 15, the AICPA asked for IRS guidance on how S corporations and partnerships should treat tax-exempt income from PPP loan forgiveness, especially when it occurs during a different tax period.

SBA defers EIDL payments until 2022

The SBA extended deferral periods for all disaster loans, including those made through the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. With the deferral, small businesses that received a COVID-19 EIDL loan won’t have to make a first payment on the loan until next year.

SBA targets early April for Shuttered Venue Operators Grant launch

The SBA expects to begin accepting Shuttered Venue Operators Grant applications early next month, an agency spokesperson confirmed. The SBA also released an updated pre-application checklist clarifying the requirements for applicants to submit audited financial statements and single audits.

American Rescue Plan Act passes with many tax components

The $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief bill that passed Congress contains many tax provisions, including changes to the child tax credit and many other credits, making certain unemployment benefits tax-free in 2020, and a $1,400 recovery rebate credit for many individuals.

House gives final approval to $1.9 trillion pandemic aid bill

The bill contains numerous tax provisions, including a $1,400 rebate for individuals. It also extends federal unemployment benefits and provides funds for small businesses, COVID-19 vaccination and testing, K-12 schools and colleges and universities, and state and local governments.

AICPA’s Simpson pushes for PPP deadline delay at congressional hearing

The AICPA’s vice president for Firm Services, Lisa Simpson, CPA, CGMA, told a congressional committee during a hearing that Congress should push back the application deadline for the Paycheck Protection Program by at least 60 days.

AICPA takes case for PPP deadline delay to Congress

The AICPA sent a letter encouraging congressional leaders to push back the Paycheck Protection Program’s March 31 application deadline at least 60 days.

SBA issues guidance but no start date for Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program

The SBA recently released fresh guidance for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program, but the agency still cannot say when the $15 billion program will start accepting applications.

CPAs urged to be voice of calm in PPP storm

Rule changes, deadline pressures, and ongoing processing problems with the Paycheck Protection Program are causing high levels of frustration and anxiety among many small businesses. This creates an opportunity for CPAs to provide calm guidance for stressed clients.

Senate passes amended $1.9 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill

The Senate approved a $1.9 trillion pandemic economic relief bill on Saturday. The bill will be sent back to the House of Representatives because the Senate changed the legislation originally approved by the House.