The American Rescue Plan Act Has Passed: Here's What You Need to Know
Help is on the way, and it's welcomed news for US households. In one of his first major moves in office, President Biden has signed the American Rescue Plan Act - a $1.9 trillion stimulus plan meant to extend, renew and implement relief for those affected by COVID-19.
Below is a breakdown of some important components of this legislation, including what business owners, families, and struggling individuals may need to know.
Stimulus Checks
Similar to previous relief bills, eligible American taxpayers will be receiving direct stimulus payments of $1,400 as part of the new bill. Similar to previous checks, those with incomes up to $75,000 will receive $1,400 payments, while families with children will receive $1,400 per dependent. Married couples with an income of $150,000 or less will receive $2,800.1
Phaseout Ranges for American Rescue Plan Act Stimulus PaymentsChild Tax Credit
Previously, the child tax credit offered eligible families a $2,000 tax credit per child under the age of 17. With changes made under the new legislation, the child tax credit is temporarily expanding for 2021. Eligible families may receive up to $3,600 for children 5 and under and up to $3,000 for children ages six to 17.1
Here is how the American Rescue Plan is changing conditions and stipulations regarding the child tax credit:1
- The $2,500 earning floor will be waived.
- The credit will be fully refundable.
- The federal government will send eligible families credit in advance between July and December 2021.
This is a major win for young families in America. Through these credits alone, it's estimated that child poverty could be nearly cut in half(!)
Unemployment Benefits
Eligible unemployed individuals may continue receiving an additional $300 in federal unemployment benefits through early September 2021.1
Small Businesses & The PPP
Overall, the bill allocates around $50 billion toward assisting small businesses affected by COVID-19.1
The Paycheck Protection Program will receive $7.25 billion, but the new legislation does not change the PPP’s end date of March 31, 2021.1 Bars, restaurants and entertainment venues heavily impacted by the pandemic will also be eligible to receive grants from the government.
Low-income communities have been some of the hardest hit financially during the pandemic. In response, the government will be allocating $15 billion toward Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advanced Grants. Eligible businesses in low-income communities may be able to receive up to $10,000 each.1
Employee Retention Credit
The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) will be extended through the end of 2021. With this refundable tax credit, business owners may claim up to $7,000 per employee per quarter.1
Here's a visual breakdown of how the stimulus package will be allocated:
Wondering how this recent legislation and other COVID-relief initiatives may benefit you? We're here to help. Send us a message here or schedule a call with Brett at your convenience.
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.
Brett Koeppel is a fee-only Buffalo financial advisor, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM , and the Founder/President of Eudaimonia Wealth. Eudaimonia Wealth is a fee-only, fiduciary, Buffalo financial planner and wealth management firm dedicated to helping families prepare for and transition into retirement by providing independent, objective financial planning and investment management advice.
[Photo by Louis Velazquez on Unsplash]