Business Update for Unemployment, Taxes, and Building Inspections

Dear friends,
Based on the questions we have been receiving, we have updated information that we want to pass on to New Bedford business owners.
Below please find information and important links regarding unemployment claims for employees, federal and state business related taxes, and local building inspections.
Please be well and continue to follow all social distancing and other best practices offered by local, state, and federal officials.
Derek


Unemployment Claims
Your employees should know that MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center is now providing virtual services via phone and email between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. There are two ways for those laid off to file an immediate unemployment claim. First, the most popular method is to file online here between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. UI Online is designed to be accessed from a desktop computer or a laptop. Second, for those unable to access a desktop or laptop, the UI Call is: 877-626-6800.
Federal and State Taxes
The Trump administration announced this morning that it would move tax day from April 15 to July 15, giving American individuals and businesses an extra three months to file their taxes amid the disruptions caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Here is the direct link to the IRS for Coronavirus Information.
The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) has stated they will offer similar relief to what the IRS issues. Here is the link for the most current information on DOR requirements.
The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission has stated that they recognize the hardship posed to § 12 licensees to comply with the sixty-day credit terms on invoices as outlined in M.G.L. c. 138, § 25. The Commission has now ordered that the credit terms for all invoices issued on or after January 18, 2020 to § 12 licensees are extended by thirty (30) days to a total of ninety (90) days for payment of those invoices. Here is the link to the full order.
We also know that the state is crafting emergency regulations that would allow small businesses to delay payment of sales and other taxes until June. It is our understanding that eligible businesses would not have to remit sales, meals or room occupancy taxes for the months of March, April and May until June 20. The regulations are to be finalized today and we will pass them along as soon as possible.
Local Building Permits and Inspections
New Bedford’s Department of Inspectional Services (DIS) is continuing inspections, as long as they can abide by the six feet social distance requirement. If someone is sick at that location that requires an inspection, they can email DIS the pictures, or if the job has a registered design professional they can send the documentation. Certificates of Occupancy can be completed online with payment done online as well.
Folks can also apply for permits online and DIS will process and e-mail them with questions as needed. Click here for the City’s online permit center.


Massachusetts COVID-19 Resources and Information

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