FAQ On Issues Affecting California Small Businesses
This is an unprecedented time for all. Van Beurden Insurance wants to help everyone navigate through this unknown territory. What is covered? What is not? What are your options as a business owner?
Does Workers’ Compensation insurance apply to COVID-19?
Workers’ Compensation insurance could apply in cases where a person contracted the illness through workplace exposure, such as health care workers.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s March 12th, Executive Order stats that “if workers are unable to do their usual job because they were exposed to and contracted COVID-19 during the regular course of their work, they may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits.”
Working remotely does not suspend the application of various employment laws, including wage and hour requirements, workplace safety obligations, and Workers’ Compensation coverage.
The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency have posted information regarding COVID-19 on their websites, including a chart of available benefits, FAQs, and information regarding available benefits such as disability insurance, paid family leave, and unemployment insurance seen here:
https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/2019-Novel-Coronavirus.htm (under Labor Law)
https://www.labor.ca.gov/coronavirus2019/
What help is available to businesses through the federal stimulus package passed by Congress?
Most businesses and non-profits with fewer than 500 employees will be able to apply for Small Business Administration 7(a) loans. Self-employed workers will also be able to apply for loans, as will workers employed by ride-sharing apps. Congress is expected to approve the package on March 27. Businesses will need to contact banks, credit unions and other lenders to apply for the loans. Loan underwriting guidelines are not yet available. For more information please visit the Small Business Administration website. I would be happy to help you navigate your way through all the stimulus package and the benefits for you.
What help is there for employees affected by COVID-19 closures?
Governor Newsom’s March 12 Executive Order spelled out several steps that employees can take if they lose their jobs or are unable to work due to COVID-19. These include disability and unemployment insurance, paid family leave for caregivers and Workers’ Compensation if you were exposed to and contracted COVID-19 during the regular course of your work. The Governor waived the one-week waiting period for employees who are unemployed or become disabled as a result of COVID-19.
Learn more here:
https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019.htm
Contact our office for more information.
