Were You Self-Employed During COVID-19?

You may be eligible for up to $32,200 from the IRS

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Unlock the Potential of the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC)


Welcome to the
forefront of financial empowerment for the self-employed in the era of COVID-19. Our in-depth guide on the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC) is your key to understanding and accessing crucial financial support during these unprecedented times. Initially part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and expanded under the CARES Act, the SETC is not just a lifeline but a powerful tool designed to counteract the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic.

How Much Can You Get? Discover how to calculate your SETC credit based on your daily average self-employment income and the number of workdays missed. With a potential credit of up to $32,220, understanding your entitlement could be a game-changer for your financial health.

Claiming Made Easy: Navigating the claim process is straightforward with our guidance. We recommend professional assistance to ensure you get the most out of your claim. Our user-friendly system is designed to help you amend your tax returns efficiently, ensuring you claim the credit you deserve.

SETC vs. PPP: Understand the differences between the SETC and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and how each serves distinct aspects of pandemic relief.

Inclusive and Accessible: The SETC isn’t just for the traditionally self-employed. If you have mixed income sources, you might still be eligible. We'll help you navigate the intricacies of eligibility and ensure you don’t miss out on what you’re entitled to.

Freelancer calculating Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC) benefits using a calculator and financial charts on a desk, symbolizing strategic tax planning for self-employed individuals.

Who Exactly Qualifies?

Self-employed Uber Eats driver reviewing financial documents on a smartphone, potentially exploring benefits of the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC).

Status as a Self-Employed Individual

To determine eligibility based on self-employment for certain benefits or programs, you need to meet specific criteria for the years 2020 and/or 2021. The criteria include:

  • Sole proprietors operating businesses, including those with employees.
  • Individuals working as 1099 subcontractors and those owning single-member LLCs.
  • If your federal tax returns for 2020 and/or 2021 included a “Schedule C” or were filed as a Partnership (Form 1065).

Impact of COVID on Your Work

Eligibility extends to those who directly faced COVID challenges. Whether you suffered from COVID, showed similar symptoms, were under quarantine, went for COVID testing, or looked after family members impacted by the virus, the SETC is designed to provide financial support.

Important Clarification

Please note, businesses structured as Sub S or True S Corporations/C Corporations do not qualify for the SETC. This tax credit is specifically intended for business owners who filed a “Schedule C” or a Partnership (Form 1065) with their federal tax returns for the years 2020 and/or 2021.

A Simple 3-Step Process

Complete Estimate & See The Total You Qualify For

Have your tax expert submit your forms

Get Your Funds Deposited In As Little As 10 Days

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've got A's for your Q's

What if I already filed my 2020 & 2021 taxes?

Our CPA and EA's will need to file an amendment on your tax return. All we require from you is a copy of your 2019, 2020 and 2021 tax returns and a copy of your driver's license, and we’ll handle the rest. 

What Documentation Do I Need To Provide?

For the most part, all we require is your 2019, 2020 and 2021 tax return including your schedule C and a copy of your driver's license for identification.

How much money can I expect to receive?

There are a few factors that go into calculating your tax credit refund amount. The biggest factors would be:

  • Your net income from your schedule C on your 2019, 2020 and 2021 tax returns.
  • How many days you were out sick or told to quarantine with Covid-19
  • How long you might have cared for a loved one affected by Covid-19.
  • How long any schools or daycare centers were closed (and you were forced to care for a minor child during the closings).

How is the amount calculated?


Eligibility for Self-Employed
: Applicable if unable to work/telework due to:Government quarantine ordersSelf-quarantineCOVID-19 symptoms and seeking a medical diagnosis

  • Credit Calculation for Personal Leave:Based on the lesser of:Average daily self-employment income$511 per day
  • Eligibility for Family Care:Applicable if caring for:A family member under quarantineA child with unavailable childcare
  • Credit Calculation for Family Care:Based on the lesser of:⅔ of average daily self-employment income$200 per day
  • Determining Daily Rate:Calculated from annual pay on line 6 of Schedule SEDivided by 260 (standard working days in a year)
  • Rates Based on Leave Reason:Personal leave: Full daily rate up to $511/dayFamily/childcare leave: 2/3rds of pay up to $200/day

What are all the ways to qualify?

To qualify for FFCRA credits you must have missed work because of COVID-related issues. If you were unable to work because of one of these reasons, you may be eligible:

  • A government agency imposed a quarantine or isolation order.
  • Your doctor recommended you self-quarantine.
  • You were having COVID-19 symptoms while also waiting for an appointment with your doctor.
  • You were waiting for COVID-19-related test results.
  • You were getting vaccinated against COVID-19.
  • You were experiencing side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine.
  • You took care of your children who were affected by school or daycare shutdowns.
  • You took care of someone else/family members who had COVID-19 issues.

What are the eligible dates?

The dates you can claim under FFCRA (SETC) income tax credit are between April 1, 2020 – March 31, 2021 and up to 10 days for dates between April 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021.

Here is a breakdown of the days:

Childcare related time off – up to 110 days

  • 50 days between April 1,2020 and March 31, 2021
  • 60 days between April 1, 2021 and September 30, 2021

Yourself or loved one (other than child) – up to 20 days

  • 10 days between April 1,2020 and March 31, 2021
  • 10 days between April 1, 2021 and September 30, 2021 

What is a "child or other dependent" tax credit?

The Child Tax Credit helps families with qualifying children get a tax break. To have received a Child Tax credit or a credit for other dependents, you would have had to submit a Schedule 8821. 

Can I claim tax credits if I am also a W-2 employee?

We’re sorry but we are unable to help W2 employees with filing for the FFCRA. You may still qualify for credit depending on if your employer filed for the FFCRA on your behalf. Consult a CPA for your specific situation. 

"I recently sought help for claiming the Self-Employed Tax Credit and was amazed by the smooth, efficient process. The team made what seemed a daunting task incredibly simple, providing clear guidance every step of the way. Their expertise helped me secure a significant tax credit, offering much-needed financial relief during these challenging times. Highly recommend for anyone navigating self-employment tax complexities."

— Kathy S.

ALMOST EVERYBODY WITH SCHEDULE C INCOME QUALIFIES