Do you know what grinds my gears? Taxes. All those forms, calculations, and rules—it’s enough to make your head spin! But one tax credit makes the headache worthwhile: the Employee Retention Credit (ERC). This bad boy can score employers up to $26,000 per employee for keeping workers on payroll during COVID-19. Cha-ching!
Of course, claiming the ERC is a challenging street. You have to navigate a maze of eligibility rules and documentation requirements. Working with an ERC specialist can save you time and headaches. In this article, I’ll list the top 5 ERC companies and agencies to help maximize your credit. From customer service stars to ERC veterans, these tax pros will slide into your DMs and get your business money—no twerking required!
So grab some coffee, cozy up, and dive into the best places to get your ERC tax credit groove on. This info is hotter than Taylor Swift’s latest single! Please stick with me; you’ll be swimming in stimulus like Scrooge McDuck before you know it.
Best ERC companies and agencies:
- ERC Specialists – Best for Payroll Taxes
- ERC Today – Best for Affordability and Great Customer Service
- Innovation Refunds – Best for Small Business Owners
- Lendio – Best for Customer Satisfaction
- Omega Accounting Solutions – Best for Business Financing
What Is Employee Retention Credit?
Let’s start with the basics – what is this Employee Retention Credit thing anyway? When COVID first hit, it had a massive impact on businesses. The government introduced the Employee Retention Credit or ERC to help companies keep employees on payroll during the chaos.
The ERC is a tax credit that the IRS provides to business owners as an incentive to retain their staff through the pandemic madness. So, for every eligible employee you kept employed in 2020 and 2021, your business can claim a juicy tax credit of up to $26,000 per employee. Sweet deal, right?
The goal was to inject money into struggling businesses to cover employee wages. This helped keep folks off unemployment while also giving companies like yours a fighting chance at survival. It’s a pretty smart policy to stabilize the economy!
So, in a nutshell, the ERC was Uncle Sam’s way of saying, “Hey businesses, please don’t lay people off! Here’s some money to help you out so we can get through COVID without massive job losses.” And for employers who took advantage, the ERC has provided a significant money boost.
ERC Specialists – Best for Payroll Taxes
ERC Specialists is a specialty tax service company focused entirely on helping businesses claim the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC). With over 40 years of payroll tax expertise, ERC Specialists leverages its team of tax professionals and attorneys to maximize ERC refunds through a streamlined 4-step application process. This dedicated ERC focus is why they are regarded as one of the top ERC specialist firms.
ERC Specialists provide complete guidance through every step of claiming the credit – from initial eligibility analysis to filing amended returns to getting refunds. Their specialists have mastery of the complex 200+ page ERC tax code that most CPAs need more. ERC Specialists is exclusively dedicated to understanding the ERC program in-depth to unlock the maximum allowable refunds for clients affected by COVID-19.
Overall Rating Score (1/10)
9.4/10
Pricing
ERC Specialists use a transparent, contingency-based pricing model that provides a customized fee quote tied to a percentage of the estimated credit amount during a free analysis, ensuring their fees are justified by maximizing the refunds recovered.
Bridge Loans Available
ERC Specialists offers short-term bridge loans up to 80% of the expected ERC refund amount to provide operating capital with 10-15% fees while waiting for the tax credit refunds.
Qualifying Process
ERC Specialists uses a straightforward 4-step process to claim your Employee Retention Credit:
- Complete an online form to evaluate if you qualify for the ERC based on eligibility criteria.
- Upload supporting documents through ERC Specialists’ secure portal.
- ERC Specialists will analyze your information, determine your qualification status, and calculate your estimated refund amount and fees.
- Sign an agreement, and ERC Specialists will file your amended returns with the IRS, typically within 2-3 weeks.
After expediting the filing process, you must wait for the IRS to process your claim and issue a refund check. While ERC Specialists streamline submission, the IRS has a 20+ week backlog determining total timing.
Processing Time
The complete ERC claim process with ERC Specialists typically takes 2-3 weeks from start to finish. Once you approve the amended return, ERC Specialists file your claim, and the IRS refund release depends on their backlog, with the IRS estimating a 20+ week minimum turnaround currently. Expect a streamlined 2-3 week filing process, though total refund timing is subject to IRS processing delays.
Expertise/Specialist
- Focused Exclusively on ERC – As their name indicates, ERC Specialists only does Employee Retention Tax Credits.
- ERC Tax Code Mastery – Their specialists have in-depth knowledge of ERC qualifications, calculations, limitations, and IRS guidance.
- ERC Modeling – They evaluate payroll data to identify and model the optimal credit amount available.
- Credit Maximization – Their sole focus is helping clients claim the maximum allowable ERC refund.
- CPA Experience – Many of their experts have accounting qualifications and tax expertise.
- IRS Audit Support – Assist with any IRS inquiries or audits related to ERC claims.
- Client Advocacy – They work directly with clients, not through intermediaries or other firms.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly online platform for secure document upload
- Clear, responsive communication via email, phone, and portal
- Professional, knowledgeable team with payroll expertise
- Fast document preparation and filing, typically 2-3 weeks
- Clients report receiving substantial ERC refunds
- Deep expertise in navigating complex, changing ERC rules
- Proactively maximize eligible ERC amounts
- Provide audit support as needed
- Specialize exclusively in ERC versus other credits
- Have filed thousands of successful ERC claims
- Offer a reasonable percentage-based fee structure
- Positive reviews praise excellent customer service
>> Access ERC Specialists <<
Cons:
- Long phone hold times
- High percentage-based fees
- Delayed refunds due to IRS backlog
Other Features
- Maximum Refund Guarantee ensuring all eligible credits are claimed.
- Free Eligibility Analysis performed to estimate your credit amount.
- Application Status Dashboard providing real-time updates on your claim.
- Secure Online Portal for easy document submission.
- ERC Resources like FAQs, tables, and blog articles to build knowledge.
- Referral Program to potentially earn rewards for client referrals.
- Direct Communication with ERC Experts for any questions.
- Audit Defense services providing support in case of an IRS audit.
- Fully Transparent Fees disclosed upfront before engagement.
- Pay Only from Refund so fees are tied directly to credits secured.
- ERC Expertise focused solely on maximizing these tax credits.
- Streamlined, Client-Focused Process for a smooth experience.
ERC Today – Best for Affordability and Great Customer Service
ERC Today is a specialized tax service focused on helping companies nationwide maximize Employee Retention Credit (ERC) refunds. Their expertise in ERC filings provides in-depth knowledge to secure businesses’ optimal tax credit returns. ERC Today offers a complimentary initial analysis to evaluate eligibility and fast refund processing completed in 1-2 weeks. They prepare and submit all amended quarterly payroll tax forms to the IRS on the client’s behalf.
A standout feature of ERC Today is its exceptional customer support resources. They provide helpful videos, FAQs, blog content, and multiple contact options via email, phone, and social media. This ensures an easy experience getting professional guidance on ERC claims when needed. ERC Today is known for affordability compared to competitors, with specialized services to assist large businesses with 500+ employees. Their online visibility and expertise in ERC filing intricacies make them a trusted choice.
Overall Rating Score (1/10)
7.5/10
Pricing
ERC Today offers an initial free analysis to assess your eligibility and estimate your potential Employee Retention Credit (ERC) amount.
If you proceed with having ERC Today file for credits on your behalf, their fee is a percentage of the total refund received.
Bridge Loans Available
While waiting for Employee Retention Credit refunds, ERC Today provides short-term financing options to eligible businesses through bridge loans. Companies that filed ERC claims with ERC Today may qualify for loans up to 80% of their expected refund amount.
Based on the loan size, fees range from 7.5% to 15%, with lower rates for higher amounts. No deposit is necessary and the loans are structured to be repaid once the IRS distributes the refund, typically within 6 to 12 months. ERC Today’s bridge loan capital can help cover operating expenses and cash flow needs until the tax credit reimbursement arrives.
Qualifying Process
The Employee Retention Credit eligibility is determined based on the following:
- Employers of any size, including non-profits, that fully or partially suspended operations due to a COVID-19 governmental order.
- Employers that experienced a 50%+ decline in gross receipts when comparing 2020 quarterly revenue to the same 2019 quarter.
- For affiliated employer groups, the entire group only qualifies if all entities combined had either a full suspension or 50%+ decline in receipts.
- Eligible employers must have carried on trade/business in 2020/2021 calendar years.
- Applies to tax-exempt organizations that meet the criteria.
ERC Today will evaluate your specific situation to determine if you meet these thresholds to qualify for the tax credits. Their experts will analyze your operations, shutdowns, revenue declines, and affiliation status to identify your eligibility.
Processing Time
ERC Today can prepare and file ERC applications in under one week, though total refund timeframes depend on the IRS workload and typically take 2-8 months.
Expertise/Specialist
- ERC Application Experts – With deep knowledge of ERC qualifications, calculations, and IRS guidance, specialists maximize credits claimed.
- Payroll Data Analysts – Review payroll records to identify and document eligible wage data to support ERC claims.
- Gross Receipts Analysts – Help demonstrate quarterly revenue declines in 2020/2021 to qualify clients.
- Client Service Managers – Dedicated point of contact for each client throughout the ERC process.
- IRS Enrolled Agents – Authorized tax practitioners represent clients in all ERC matters before the IRS.
- Refund Advance Officers – Offer funding based on expected ERC refunds for short-term capital needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Competitive fee structure from 7.5% – 15%
- No upfront payments required
- Specialized expertise in ERC filings only
- Offers ERC bridge loans while waiting for refunds
- Extensive experience assisting many businesses
- Handles clients with just one employee
- Accessible phone and email support system
- Proactive follow-up on claim status
- High 4.9 star Google rating
- Quick 1 week turnaround on filing documents
- Simple, streamlined application process
>> Access ERC Today <<
Cons:
- Higher fees for refunds under $1 million
- It may take a few weeks for complex cases
- No advance on the expected refund amount
Other Features
- Free Eligibility Consultations to evaluate potential ERC qualification.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee ensuring no credits are left unclaimed.
- Streamlined 4-Step Application Process for a smooth experience.
- Ready-to-File Tax Forms take the work out of filing.
- Secure Online Portal for easy document submission.
- ERC Resources like videos, FAQs, and blog articles.
- Real-Time Application Status Dashboard providing updates.
- Direct Communication with ERC Specialists for any questions.
- No Upfront Fees, and only pay fees tied to the refund received.
- Supply Chain Disruption Expertise assisting affected businesses.
- Audit Support and defense services if audited by the IRS.
- Refund Advance Eligibility once the application is filed.
Innovation Refunds – Best for Small Business Owners
Innovation Refunds is an Employee Retention Credit (ERC) tax specialist driven by a customer-focused approach and accomplished leadership. Their mission is to assist businesses nationwide in recovering owed COVID relief through ERC payroll tax refunds. With a pay-for-performance pricing model, you only pay if you receive refunds, ensuring mutual success.
With an efficient and secure process, Innovation Refunds simplifies the complex ERC guidelines and IRS requirements businesses face. Their expertise has helped over 14,000 clients recoup over $4 billion in refunds by leveraging CPAs, tax attorneys, and software to guarantee accurate, audit-proof filings. From determining eligibility to receiving your funds, Innovation Refunds is there each step of the way to unlock your maximum credits. Their seasoned tax professionals have facilitated thousands of successful ERC claims, streamlining documentation, calculations, amended tax forms, and refund payouts.
Overall Rating Score (1/10)
9/10
Pricing
Innovation Refunds offers a straightforward pricing model for their Employee Retention Credit (ERC) filing services.
Their fee is 25% of the total refund amount recovered for your business. There are no hidden costs or upfront payments required.
Bridge Loans Available
Innovation Refunds focuses entirely on securing your tax refunds and does not offer any bridging loans or financing options. This allows them to concentrate their full efforts on expediting your IRS refund. Your bank can provide short-term financing solutions if you need funding assistance while waiting for your check.
Qualifying Process
Applying for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) can be complicated for businesses to maneuver on their own. The eligibility conditions and required documentation, like amending Form 941 and supplying over 170 pages of supporting materials, make the process cumbersome.
Innovation Refunds aims to simplify ERC applications for small business owners through the following process:
- Complete a short online application with basic information about your business.
- Innovation Refunds’ team of tax professionals will evaluate if you qualify for the ERC based on your details, at no upfront cost.
- You’ll receive a free, no-obligation analysis of your estimated tax credit amount if eligible.
- To move forward, Innovation Refunds will work with you to handle all documentation, form amendments, and application requirements.
- If successful, the company charges a 25% fee on the total refund or credit amount for their services.
Processing Time
While Innovation Refunds does not specify total processing times, user reviews suggest the filing process is typically fast and efficient. You can expect it to take less than 10 minutes to submit your application and determine eligibility. After opting to move forward, document submission is also seamless through their portal. The longest wait time is the minimum 4 months required for the IRS to review claims and issue refund checks after Innovation Refunds submits your forms. However, Innovation Refunds aims to expedite the process as much as possible through expert preparation and filing of your ERC paperwork.
Expertise/Specialist
- ERC Specialists – With deep knowledge of ERC qualifications, calculations, and latest IRS guidance, specialists maximize credits.
- Payroll Integration Experts – Seamlessly connect to all major payroll systems to extract key data for ERC filings.
- Accounting Software Integrators – Sync with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero to import financial data.
- Tax Attorneys – Provide complimentary audit support and tax code and regulations guidance.
- CPAs – Financial professionals with accounting qualifications advise on documentation and ERC nuances.
- Client Service Managers – Dedicated point of contact for each client throughout the ERC process.
- IRS Enrolled Agents – Authorized tax practitioners represent clients before the IRS.
- Refund Advance Professionals – Offer funding based on expected ERC refunds for short-term capital needs.
- Business Valuation Analysts – Help determine COVID-19 impact on gross receipts.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Simple, streamlined process for applying for ERC refunds
- Free, no obligation ERC eligibility analysis
- No upfront or hidden fees
- Team of CPAs and tax attorneys on staff
- Dedicated account specialist assigned
- Strong expertise in ERC rules and regulations
- Handles all documentation and form filling
- Provides audit support if needed
- Integrates with major accounting software
- Positive customer reviews and testimonials
- Helped recover $4 billion+ in refunds already
- Clear communication and status updates
>> Access Innovation Refunds <<
Cons:
- 25% fee from refunds is steep compared to competitors
- Only works with businesses that have 4+ employees
Other Features
- Dedicated Account Specialists provide individualized guidance through the full ERC claim process.
- Free Eligibility Analysis helps determine if your business qualifies for the credit with no commitment.
- Zero Upfront Fees means you pay something once your ERC refund arrives.
- Complimentary Audit Support gives access to tax attorneys for audit defense at no added cost.
- Secure Online Portal lets you easily submit documentation needed for your claim.
- Payroll Integrations automatically pull relevant data to support your application.
- Accounting Integrations sync with top accounting software platforms.
- Basic Refund Calculator gives an initial estimate of your potential ERC refund.
- Referral Rewards allows you to earn gift cards for referring new ERC clients.
Lendio – Best for Customer Satisfaction
Lendio is an online lending marketplace that aims to make financing easy and accessible for small business owners. Founded in 2011, Lendio leverages its network of over 75 lenders to match applicants with the ideal business funding solutions.
Through their streamlined application process, small businesses can complete one form and quickly receive tailored loan offers from multiple lenders—loans available via Lendio range from short-term working capital to long-term SBA loans over $5 million. They have facilitated over 300,000 loans totaling more than $12 billion in financing for small business clients across 700 industries. Lendio’s experts provide guidance on selecting the right loan product at the best rate for each borrower’s needs. Their personalized approach and network of lenders simplifies accessing capital for any growth or operational expenses.
Overall Rating Score (1/10)
8.5/10
Pricing
Short Term Loans
- $2,500 to $500K
- APR starting at 8%
- Funding in as soon as 24 hours
Business Term Loans
- $5,000 to $2M
- APR starting at 6%
- Funding in as soon as 24 hours
Business Lines of Credit
- $1,000 to $500K
- 8% to 60% APR
- Funding in 1-2 days
Business Cash Advances
- $5,000 to $1M
- APR starting at 18%
- Funding in as soon as 24 hours
Accounts Receivable Financing
- Tied to receivables
- APR starting at 3%
- Funding in as soon as 24 hours
SBA Loans
- Up to $5M
- Prime + APR
- 1-3 months for funding
Startup Loans
- Up to $150K
- Up to 31% APR
- 2-4 weeks for funding
Equipment Financing
- $5,000 to $5M
- APR starting at 7.5%
- Funding in as soon as 24 hours
Bridge Loans Available
Lendio offers short-term bridge loans up to 65% of the expected ERC refund amount, with 8%+ APR.
Qualifying Process
Step 1 – Apply Online Fill out Lendio’s online application to get matched with lenders. The application is short and easy – most businesses qualify if operating for at least 1 year.
Step 2 – Connect with Lenders Lendio will match you with loan offers. A consultant will help compare and select the right loan product.
Step 3 – Provide Documents Your loan officer will request documents like bank statements, tax returns, and profit and loss statements to verify finances.
To apply for the ERC, you will also need:
- Payroll reports
- Gross receipts by quarter for 2020 and 2021
- Details on government orders impacting your business
- Documentation on other grants, credits, or PPP loans received
- Quarterly payroll tax filings
Respond promptly so your application can be swiftly processed.
Step 4 – Lender Review The lender will review your documents and information to approve your loan, usually in 1-3 days.
Step 5 – Funding Once approved, you’ll receive funding within the timelines outlined, often as fast as 24 hours.
Processing Time
Lendio files most ERC applications within 25 days, then the IRS review takes 2-8 months, depending on workload, so the total estimated time from engaging Lendio to receiving the ERC refund is typically 3-9 months.
Expertise/Specialist
- ACH Financing: Specialists guide businesses in securing financing against receivables
- Lines of Credit: Experts help access revolving credit facilities
- Cash Advances: Dedicated staff help obtain advances against credit card sales
- Term Loans: Officers find the right long-term loan program
- Short-Term Loans: Experts provide access to temporary installment loans
- Commercial Mortgages: Real estate financing advisors help secure mortgages
- Equipment Financing: Staff help find the ideal leasing or financing programs
- SBA Loans: Loan officers have mastery of government-backed programs
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Free access to many features like accounting, invoicing, cash flow insights, and more
- Slick, user-friendly interface makes the platform easy to navigate
- Extra invoice customization and tools vs competitors
- Cash flow analysis helps track financial health over time
- Integrated payroll through Gusto for convenience
- Loans up to $750k available for qualifying startups
- Choice of over 75 lenders increases approval chances
- High maximum loan amounts for scaling businesses
- Low minimum loan amounts accommodate early-stage businesses
>> Access Lendio <<
Cons:
- Many formerly free features now relegated to paid tiers with increased pricing
- Lengthy documentation required for online loan applications
- Lack of personalized support compared to a dedicated small business banker
- Mixed customer reviews on ease and speed of loan process
Other Features
- Estimate Creation: Easily create project estimates and quotes to send to prospects.
- Discount & Refund Processing: Automatically apply discounts and process refunds on invoices.
- Bank Reconciliation: Reconcile bank accounts within the platform.
- Bank Statement Import: Securely import bank statement data.
- Tax Management: Manage state sales tax rates and tax reporting.
- Multi-Currency Support: Invoice and receive payments in multiple currencies.
- Custom Invoicing: Create customized invoices with branding and messaging.
- Online Payments: Clients can pay invoices online through the platform.
- Email Invoicing: Invoices can be emailed directly to customers.
- Reporting & Analytics: Robust reporting provides business insights.
- Mobile Access: Manage invoices and payments on the go.
- Integration Support: Integrates with popular accounting software.
Omega Accounting Solutions – Best for Business Financing
Omega Accounting Solutions was founded in 2007 by Jay Woods in a small Laguna Niguel, CA office. What started as a regional accounting firm providing corporate controller services has grown into a national business advisory. Woods gained insight into clients’ daily financial challenges and started identifying innovative fractional solutions to offer significant business resources at an affordable cost.
Today, Omega Accounting offers accounting, tax, and data services tailored to each client’s needs. One area getting attention is their Employee Retention Credit (ERC) services, helping businesses claim this lucrative tax credit from the IRS. Omega Funding Solutions, their ERC offshoot, is considered one of the top ERC companies. Over the past 15 years, Omega has expanded to tax advisory and business intelligence services while retaining a loyal client network. In 2020, Woods leveraged the firm’s expertise to secure over $1 billion in tax credits for small businesses impacted by the pandemic.
Overall Rating Score (1/10)
8/10
Pricing
Omega Accounting Solutions provides customized quotes outlining potential ERC filing fees after conducting eligibility consultations and credit maximization analyses tailored to each business’s unique situation. Their experts calculate maximum credit amounts first, then offer transparent, personalized estimates so companies can assess the value. However, Omega does not disclose upfront fees publicly or explain if fees can be paid upfront at a discount versus when you receive the refund.
Bridge Loans Available
Omega Accounting Solutions also provides easy access to bridge loans while you wait for your credit refunds.
Omega offers business bridge loans of up to 60% loan-to-value based on your expected ERC amount. This provides quick cash flow relief while you go through the ERC process.
Qualifying Process
Getting started with Omega Accounting Solutions website for your ERC is simple.
First, you’ll want to ensure you meet the base criteria. Your US-based business may qualify for ERC if:
- You employed at least 5 W-2 employees in 2020 or 2021.
- You employed less than 500 full-time employees in 2019.
- You suffered a significant revenue decline in any quarter of 2020 or 2021 compared to 2019.
- Or a government order caused you to modify operations.
If you meet these thresholds, you can upload key documents like payroll records, 941s, and financial statements through Omega’s secure online portal. Their team of experts will review your documentation to calculate the maximum ERC amount you qualify for.
Next, Omega prepares and audits all the amended 941X tax forms required to claim your credits. Their CPAs handle completing the ERC application paperwork end-to-end.
Finally, once filed, you’ll receive your ERC refund check directly from the IRS in 60-90 days. Omega guides you through every step from initial calculation to getting that retention credit money in hand.
Processing Time
The ERC process with Omega Accounting Solutions begins by completing a short online form, which takes about 10 minutes. Omega will then call you back quickly to evaluate eligibility and get started on securing your credits in the most expedient way possible.
Expertise/Specialist
- Fractional CFOs provide strategic financial leadership for growth, acquisitions, and fundraising.
- Industry specialist CPAs understand the unique accounting needs of your vertical.
- QuickBooks experts can set up, configure, and train your team.
- As Xero Partners, they leverage Xero for enhanced financials.
- Tax planning pros maximize deductions using the latest code changes.
- Analysts provide tailored dashboards, models, and business insights.
- Payroll team handles everything from setup to compliance filings.
- Experienced audit CPAs represent you in the case of IRS or state audits.
- Fractional controllers act as virtual finance departments.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Fast, easy, and secure process to claim ERC refunds
- Offer ERC loans for quick access to funds
- Provide additional tax and business services
- Excellent customer support reported
- Strong focus on accuracy, compliance, and ensuring businesses get benefits
- Payroll system integrations for convenience
- ERC funds are available today through the advanced program
>> Access Omega Accounting Solutions <<
- Competitive fees compared to large accounting firms
- Secure client portal
Cons:
- Pricing not readily available or transparent
- Potentially higher pricing compared to some competitors
Other Features
- Tax Preparation Services: Omega Accounting helps businesses prepare and file annual tax returns. Their CPAs and tax professionals can handle everything from basic 1040s to complex corporate returns.
- Payroll Services: Omega offers full-service payroll processing for businesses. This includes payroll tax filings, direct deposit, and access to a cloud-based payroll dashboard.
- Year-Round Tax Planning: The tax experts at Omega provide proactive tax planning and advice all year long, not just during tax season. This can help businesses maximize deductions and tax credits.
- Audit Support: If your business is facing an IRS or state tax audit, the professionals at Omega can represent you and provide audit defense. Their expertise can help reduce fines and penalties.
- Accounting System Installation: Omega can set up and configure popular small business accounting systems like QuickBooks Online and Xero. This ensures your system is optimized for reporting and tax compliance.
- Forecasting and Budgeting: Omega’s financial experts can create cash flow forecasts, profit/loss projections, and other budgets tailored to your business. This supports better planning and decision-making.
- Cloud-Based Document Storage: Omega offers secure, online document storage to access your tax and accounting records from anywhere. This creates convenience while ensuring compliance.
How to Hire an ERC Company?
Step 1: Research ERC Companies. Spend time identifying and making a list of reputable employee retention tax credit ERC companies to consider. Search online directories and check out ERC company websites like Omega Accounting Solutions. Look for firms with proven experience successfully filing ERC amendments for businesses in your industry.
Step 2: Compare Services & Pricing
Take a close look at what specific services each ERC provider offers. Some handle the complete ERC process, from calculating credits to filing amendments, while others provide more limited services. Also, compare pricing models – some charge flat/fixed rates while others take a percentage of your credit as a contingency fee or have upfront fees. Weigh the pros and cons of a few top options.
Step 3: Check Credentials Vet the credentials of any ERC company you consider. You want to confirm tax professionals on staff are highly qualified – look for CPAs, Enrolled Agents (EAs), attorneys, or those with IRS/government experience. Checking credentials ensures you’re working with experts.
Step 4: Ask Questions
Schedule calls to interview a few top ERC company contenders or ERC specialists. Come prepared with questions about timelines, processes, deliverables, and more. Get clarity on what precisely they will do for you if engaged. The right ERC funding company partner will take time to address all inquiries.
Step 5: Read Reviews Search for client reviews and testimonials for the ERC companies you’re interested in. Look beyond the company website for third-party platforms with detailed, in-depth reviews. This can provide valuable insight into real customer service experiences.
Step 6: Compare & Choose. With your research completed, compare your top options side-by-side. Consider services, pricing, credentials, and reviews. Then, select the best ERC company you feel most confident in based on expertise and fit.
Benefits of ERC Consulting
- Effective Process
Working with ERC experts means an effective, streamlined process to maximize employee retention credits and ERC claims. Consultants handle everything from using an ERC calculator to determine your exact credit amounts to preparing amended returns, managing documentation, and more. They optimize the process using best practices.
- Fast Time Processing
You can get your ERC tax credits processed in as little as 60-90 days by using a consultant versus trying to handle it in-house. Their expertise expedites the complex application process and follow-ups with the IRS. You get your ERC refund rapidly by working with a dedicated ERC refund specialist.
- Online Support
Top ERC funding companies offer 24/7 online portals so you can submit documents and track your status anytime. Their tech platforms create convenience, transparency, and easy communication throughout the ERC process.
- Secure Application
Reputable ERC partners guarantee the security of your sensitive tax information. They utilize top data protection software and encryption to keep your business data safe. You avoid risks handling the complex application yourself.
- Easy Application Process
Make sure to tackle the complex ERC application. Consultants demystify the process and paperwork. Their step-by-step guidance makes maximizing innovation refunds easy. They handle the heavy lifting for you.
- Discount Policy
Many ERC consultants offer discounts for multiple amended tax returns or other add-on services. Bundling ERC with other credits/incentives equals more savings. Discounts create optimal value.
- IRS Audit Support
Reputable ERC companies provide full audit support in the rare case of an IRS inquiry. Their tax experts respond to information requests, compile documentation, and represent your business during an audit.
- Maximum Credit Guarantee
Top ERC consultants guarantee the maximum credit amount possible based on your eligibility. Their team will thoroughly audit and calculate your revenue declines across all applicable periods to identify the optimal credit amounts. These experts know how to leverage qualification nuances to your advantage legally and ethically. Their optimized calculation methods ensure you get every dollar available. No leaving potential credits on the table.
- Ongoing Tax Planning
The right ERC partner will provide ongoing tax planning and projections beyond the one-time credit filing. Their CPAs and tax professionals will advise you on additional credits, incentives, and strategies to minimize your tax liabilities now and in future years. Their guidance leads to extra savings and optimal tax reduction.
- Error Protection
ERC experts have the skills and meticulous quality control checks to avoid costly errors that could delay or jeopardize getting your credits approved. A minor miscalculation or missed form can derail your entire application. ERC consultants safeguard the process through every step to prevent potential missteps or oversights.
- Multiple Filings Assistance
If your business requires amended returns across multiple quarters or tax years, reputable ERC firms can handle all filings for a consolidated approach. There is no need to go through the piecemeal process yourself across separate periods. Your ERC partner will orchestrate and optimize the full spectrum of amended returns required.
Who’s Qualified to Get an ERC Tax Credit?
The Employee Retention Tax Credit was designed to help employers retain staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. Who can qualify to determine eligibility and claim the credit?
The ERC applies to employers of all sizes, across all industries, who kept employees on payroll during the chaos of COVID-19. Whether you run a restaurant, retailer, manufacturer, or any other type of business, you may be eligible.
Specifically, it is for employers whose operations were disrupted by government orders or who saw a significant revenue decline during COVID. If your business experienced either of these situations in 2020 or 2021 and kept people employed, you likely qualify.
The key is your business needed to be impacted by COVID-19, and you needed to retain staff despite challenges. This tax credit is squarely focused on those employers who kept people gainfully working through the pandemic.
So, if your business fits that description, the ERC was essentially created with you in mind. Those who navigated COVID disruptions yet still paid employees are entitled to significant ERC tax savings and ERC funds under this program. Connecting with a reputable ERC funding company for ERC services can help maximize your credit.
FAQs on ERC Companies and Agencies for Tax Credit
How Long Will It Take the Filling Process?
The ERC filing process typically takes 60-90 days from the start to receiving your credit when using a reputable company.
Is It Safe to Hire ERC Companies and Agencies?
Yes, it’s safe to hire a legitimate ERC company. Just vet their credentials and reviews first.
What Companies Accept Bridge Loans?
Banks like JP Morgan Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America offer bridge loans. Credit unions and some alternative online lenders may also provide bridge loans.
Should I Pay Any Commission to the ERC Companies?
Most reputable ERC companies work on contingency, taking a percentage of the employee retention credit claims received. Others may charge flat fees for their ERC funding services. Get full pricing details upfront before engaging a company for your ERC claim. Understanding the fee structure and percentage or flat rate costs allows you to budget accordingly and avoid surprises.
Can I Claim the ERC Without Assistance From a Company or Agency?
You can claim the ERC yourself, but the process is complex. Most businesses use a specialist for optimal results.
How Do I Find a Reliable ERC Company or Agency?
Ask people in your network for referrals to find a reputable ERC partner. Check online review sites and the Better Business Bureau for highly-rated, established companies. When researching options, vet both credentials and expertise. Look for firms with CPAs, EAs, and tax attorneys on staff. Interview top contenders about their process, timeline, fees, and services. Clearly understand their expertise in amended returns. Compare options side-by-side and read in-depth online reviews. Choose an ERC company with proven success in maximizing credits, customer service, and reasonable pricing.
Who Is Eligible for the ERC?
Private businesses impacted by COVID-19 that retained employees during 2020/2021 are generally eligible for significant ERC credits.
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Bottom Line
The bottom line is getting money back from the Employee Retention Credit can be a huge help for businesses impacted by COVID. But navigating the eligibility requirements, calculating your maximum credits, and amending all your IRS filings is complicated to tackle alone.
That’s where partnering with an ERC specialist makes the process so much smoother. They know all the ins and outs of qualifying, documenting your claim, filing amended returns, and getting your cash refund. An ERC company takes this complex tax credit process and makes it simple.
Whether you need help checking your eligibility, figuring out your possible credit amounts, or handling all the IRS paperwork from start to finish, an ERC specialist has you covered. They maximize returns while minimizing the effort required on your end.
Don’t leave potential thousands of dollars on the table by trying to claim these credits solo. Connect with an ERC pro to make tax relief easy. Check your eligibility for free and let the experts do your hard work!