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  • 22 Jul 2026 5:00 PM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Every business has hidden costs that quietly reduce profitability. Some appear as re-cleans, production delays, customer complaints, or unnecessary labor. Others are harder to recognize because they've become part of the daily routine.

    This week's Intent helps business owners use AI to identify recurring operational problems, uncover their root causes, and recommend practical systems that improve consistency and profitability.

    Most Profit Leaks Don't Look Like Profit Leaks

    When business owners think about losing money, they usually think about rising costs or declining sales.

    In reality, many of the biggest profit leaks happen one small decision at a time.

    A garment is cleaned twice.

    An employee spends fifteen minutes searching for an order.

    A customer calls because an order isn't ready.

    The spotting technician isn't given enough information.

    The press department waits for work.

    Individually, these problems don't seem significant.

    Collectively, they quietly reduce profitability every day.

    Ask Better Questions

    One of the biggest mistakes people make with AI is asking it to solve the wrong problem.

    Instead of asking:

    "How do I increase profits?"

    Ask:

    "Help me identify one operational problem that quietly costs my business money every week. Determine why it continues happening, identify the root cause, and recommend practical systems that will prevent it from recurring while improving consistency for both employees and customers."

    Notice the difference.

    You're not asking for random ideas.

    You're asking AI to investigate your business.

    This Is Intent Engineering

    You're not telling AI:

    • who to be
    • how to think
    • what format to use

    You're simply defining the destination.

    The AI determines the route.

    That's why Intent Engineering often produces more thoughtful, more practical business recommendations.

    Where to Start

    Try using this Intent with information about your own operation.

    Include:

    • Production numbers
    • Customer complaints
    • Re-clean records
    • Staffing information
    • Equipment issues
    • Marketing performance
    • Financial trends

    The more context you provide about your business, the more useful the recommendations become.

    This Week's Intent

    Help me identify one operational problem that quietly costs my business money every week. Determine why it continues happening, identify the root cause, and recommend practical systems that will prevent it from recurring while improving consistency for both employees and customers.

    Continue Learning

    Explore more practical AI strategies for garment care professionals by visiting the growing Intent Library and learning how the SmartCare Method helps businesses make better decisions through AI and operational visibility.



  • 22 Jul 2026 4:57 PM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    AI Has Changed. The Way We Use It Should Change Too.

    By Dawn Hargrove-Avery
    Executive Director & Chief AI Officer
    National Cleaners Association

    Executive Summary

    For the past several years, AI users have focused on prompt engineering, learning how to write detailed instructions to get better results. As AI models have become significantly more capable, a new approach is emerging. Rather than telling AI exactly how to complete a task, users are finding greater success by clearly describing the outcome they want to achieve. This shift is what we call Intent Engineering, and it represents a more practical way for business owners to use AI every day.

    The Evolution of AI

    When ChatGPT and other generative AI tools first became available, users quickly learned that the quality of the answer depended on the quality of the prompt.

    People were encouraged to tell AI:

    • Who to be
    • How to think
    • What format to use
    • What steps to follow
    • What tone to write in

    The more detailed the prompt, the better the result.

    At the time, that made perfect sense.

    Today's AI models are different.

    Modern AI systems understand context more effectively, reason through complex problems, and often determine the best approach without requiring detailed step-by-step instructions.

    That's changing how we should interact with AI.

    From Prompt Engineering to Intent Engineering

    Prompt Engineering focuses on the process.

    Intent Engineering focuses on the outcome.

    Instead of telling AI exactly how to complete a task, tell it what you're trying to accomplish.

    For example, instead of writing:

    "Act as a business consultant. Analyze this report. Summarize it. Rewrite it for my staff. Make it motivational."

    Try writing:

    "I need my production team to understand the three operational changes that will have the biggest impact this month. Create the most effective communication to make that happen."

    The destination is clear.

    The AI determines the best route.

    Why This Matters for Dry Cleaners

    Most dry cleaners don't need AI to write poetry.

    They need AI to solve business problems.

    For example:

    • Reduce re-cleans
    • Improve customer communication
    • Create employee training
    • Write marketing emails
    • Build standard operating procedures
    • Analyze production bottlenecks
    • Improve profitability

    These are outcomes.

    When you focus on the outcome instead of the instructions, AI has more flexibility to generate creative, useful, and complete solutions.

    A Better Way to Think About AI

    Think about hiring a new employee.

    You probably wouldn't explain every single step they should take throughout the day.

    Instead, you'd explain the result you expect.

    "I need customers greeted professionally."

    "I need garments inspected carefully."

    "I need production completed on schedule."

    The employee determines many of the individual actions necessary to achieve that goal.

    AI works much the same way.

    When you clearly communicate the destination, today's AI is often capable of determining the best path.

    Introducing Intent of the Week

    At the National Cleaners Association, we've decided to reflect this shift in The Full Cycle.

    That's why Prompt of the Week is becoming Intent of the Week.

    Each week, we'll provide a practical business objective that members can use with AI to improve operations, strengthen customer service, develop employees, or make better business decisions.

    The goal isn't to become a better prompt writer.

    The goal is to become a better business leader who uses AI effectively.

    Key Takeaways

    • AI has become significantly better at reasoning.
    • Long, complicated prompts aren't always necessary.
    • Focus on describing the outcome you want to achieve.
    • Intent Engineering emphasizes objectives rather than instructions.
    • Business owners can use AI more effectively by clearly defining success.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is Intent Engineering?

    Intent Engineering is the practice of telling AI what outcome you want instead of providing detailed step-by-step instructions for how to complete the task.

    Is Prompt Engineering obsolete?

    No. There are still situations where specific formatting, constraints, or instructions are important. However, for many everyday business tasks, focusing on your objective produces better results.

    Why is NCA introducing Intent of the Week?

    Because AI has evolved. We want to help members use AI in practical ways that improve their businesses, not just teach them how to write longer prompts.

    Try This Week's Intent

    Help me identify one operational problem that quietly costs my business money every week. Determine why it continues happening, identify the root cause, and recommend practical systems that will prevent it from recurring while improving consistency for both employees and customers.

    Don't tell AI how to solve the problem.

    Tell it what success looks like.

    That's Intent Engineering.

    Continue Your AI Journey

    The SmartCare Method combines AI, operational visibility, and practical business systems to help garment care professionals make better decisions and build stronger businesses.

    Explore SmartCare OS: https://smartcareos.com

    Learn More About the SmartCare Business Snapshot: https://smartcareos.com/business-snapshot


  • 22 Jul 2026 9:46 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Every Business Has Opportunities. The Challenge Is Knowing Where To Focus First.

    Discover how the SmartCare Business Snapshot helps garment care business owners identify strengths, uncover opportunities, and prioritize the improvements that matter most.

    By Dawn Hargrove-Avery
    Executive Director & Chief AI Officer
    National Cleaners Association

    Executive Summary

    Every garment care business has opportunities to improve, but knowing where to begin is often the hardest part. The SmartCare Business Snapshot was developed by the National Cleaners Association to help owners organize information about their business, identify operational strengths, uncover hidden opportunities, and prioritize the improvements most likely to produce measurable results.

    Every Business Has a Long To-Do List

    Ask any dry cleaner what they'd like to improve, and you'll probably get a long list.

    Increase sales.

    Reduce re-cleans.

    Improve customer service.

    Train employees.

    Boost production.

    Strengthen marketing.

    Upgrade equipment.

    Lower costs.

    The problem isn't finding something to improve. The challenge is deciding which improvement should come first.

    Many business owners spend time solving the loudest problem instead of the most important one.

    That's where the SmartCare Business Snapshot comes in.

    What Is the SmartCare Business Snapshot?

    The SmartCare Business Snapshot is a decision-support tool developed by the National Cleaners Association specifically for independent garment care businesses.

    It's designed to help owners step back from the daily demands of running the business and take a broader look at how the operation is performing.

    Rather than relying on assumptions or guesswork, the Snapshot organizes key business information into a structured assessment that highlights strengths, identifies opportunities, and helps determine where improvements are likely to have the greatest impact.

    Whether you operate a dry cleaning plant, wet cleaning operation, commercial laundry, route service, or specialty garment care business, the Snapshot provides a practical starting point for continuous improvement.

    How It Works

    The process begins with the SmartCare Business Profile.

    Business owners answer a series of questions about their operation, including areas such as:

    • Services offered
    • Production
    • Staffing
    • Customer experience
    • Marketing
    • Technology
    • Financial practices
    • Equipment
    • Business goals

    That information is then evaluated using the SmartCare Method to identify patterns, strengths, and opportunities.

    The result is a practical business snapshot that helps owners focus on the improvements that matter most.

    Why It Matters

    Running a garment care business requires making hundreds of decisions every week.

    Without a clear picture of the operation, it's easy to spend time solving symptoms instead of addressing root causes.

    The SmartCare Business Snapshot helps answer questions like:

    • Where should I focus first?
    • What's holding my business back?
    • Which improvements will have the biggest impact?
    • Where are we already performing well?
    • What opportunities are we missing?

    Instead of guessing, you'll have a clearer direction.

    Who Should Complete a Snapshot?

    The SmartCare Business Snapshot is valuable for:

    • Independent dry cleaners
    • Wet cleaning operations
    • Commercial laundries
    • Route operators
    • Multi-store businesses
    • New owners
    • Established businesses planning for growth

    Whether you've been in business for five years or fifty, every operation benefits from seeing itself more clearly.

    Included with NCA Membership

    The SmartCare Business Snapshot is included as a member benefit of the National Cleaners Association.

    It's one more way NCA is helping members move beyond simply solving today's problems and toward building stronger, more resilient businesses.

    Key Takeaways

    • Every business has opportunities for improvement.
    • The biggest challenge is knowing where to start.
    • The SmartCare Business Snapshot provides a structured assessment of your operation.
    • It helps identify strengths, uncover opportunities, and prioritize improvements.
    • It's included as a benefit of NCA membership.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the SmartCare Business Snapshot?

    A business assessment designed specifically for garment care businesses that helps identify operational strengths and improvement opportunities.

    Who should complete one?

    Any owner or manager who wants a clearer understanding of where to focus improvement efforts.

    Is it included with membership?

    Yes. The SmartCare Business Snapshot is an NCA member benefit.

    Ready to Discover Your Next Best Opportunity?

    The first step toward improving your business is understanding it.

    Complete your SmartCare Business Snapshot and discover where your greatest opportunities for growth may be waiting.

    Start Your SmartCare Business Snapshot


  • 22 Jul 2026 9:43 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    The Operation Only Improves When You Can See It

    Why Operational Visibility Is the First Step Toward Building a Better Garment Care Business

    By Dawn Hargrove-Avery
    Executive Director & Chief AI Officer
    National Cleaners Association

    Executive Summary

    Every garment care business has opportunities for improvement. The challenge isn't finding something to fix. The challenge is knowing which problem deserves your attention first.

    Most operational problems don't announce themselves with alarms or flashing lights. They appear one re-clean at a time, one delayed order at a time, one customer complaint at a time. Individually, they seem minor. Collectively, they cost businesses thousands of dollars each year.

    The businesses that improve the fastest aren't necessarily the ones with the newest equipment or the largest budgets. They're the ones that develop operational visibility. They learn to recognize patterns, understand what those patterns mean, and make better decisions because of them.

    The Hardest Problems to Solve Are the Ones You Can't See

    Independent dry cleaners work incredibly hard.

    Every day, owners manage employees, customers, equipment, routes, production schedules, vendors, marketing, payroll, compliance, and countless unexpected challenges. Most days are spent solving the problem that's directly in front of them.

    That approach keeps the business moving, but it doesn't always move the business forward.

    Many of the issues that quietly reduce profitability never appear as emergencies. Instead, they become part of the daily routine.

    A garment comes back for a re-clean.

    A customer calls asking why an order isn't ready.

    The press department waits while another department falls behind.

    An employee spends twenty minutes looking for a misplaced garment.

    The same customer service issue happens again and again.

    Each event seems isolated.

    In reality, they're connected.

    Every Business Leaves Clues

    Operations are constantly generating information.

    Every re-clean tells a story.

    Every customer complaint points to a process.

    Every production delay highlights a bottleneck.

    Every equipment breakdown reveals a maintenance trend.

    The question isn't whether your business has data.

    It does.

    The question is whether you're paying attention to it.

    Businesses that consistently improve learn to recognize these clues before they become expensive problems.

    Instead of reacting to today's issue, they identify the system that's creating tomorrow's issue.

    Stop Solving Symptoms

    Imagine a cleaner that has five re-cleans every week.

    The obvious response is to clean those five garments again.

    The better question is:

    Why are those garments coming back in the first place?

    Was the stain identified correctly?

    Was the garment inspected thoroughly?

    Was the proper stain removal sequence followed?

    Was there enough communication between departments?

    Was the customer given realistic expectations?

    Finding the root cause prevents the next five re-cleans.

    That's where real improvement happens.

    Visibility Creates Better Decisions

    Operational visibility isn't about collecting more reports.

    It's about organizing information so you can recognize patterns.

    When you begin tracking:

    • Re-cleans
    • Customer concerns
    • Production delays
    • Equipment downtime
    • Labor trends
    • Order accuracy
    • Quality issues

    something remarkable happens.

    Problems stop feeling random.

    Patterns begin to emerge.

    Those patterns tell you where to focus first.

    The SmartCare Method

    This principle is one of the foundations of the SmartCare Method.

    The goal isn't to create more work.

    The goal is to make better decisions.

    When you understand where your operation is performing well and where it isn't, improvement becomes intentional instead of reactive.

    That's how consistency develops.

    That's how customer confidence grows.

    That's how profitable businesses are built.

    Why NCA Created the SmartCare Business Snapshot

    One of the questions we hear most often from members is:

    "Where should I start?"

    Should they improve production?

    Marketing?

    Customer experience?

    Training?

    Pricing?

    Technology?

    The answer depends on the business.

    That's why the National Cleaners Association developed the SmartCare Business Snapshot.

    The Snapshot helps business owners organize operational information, identify strengths, uncover hidden opportunities, and prioritize improvements based on what their own business is telling them.

    Instead of guessing where to begin, owners gain a clearer picture of where their greatest opportunities exist.

    Key Takeaways

    • Every garment care business has opportunities for improvement.
    • Most operational problems develop gradually.
    • Visibility helps identify patterns before they become expensive.
    • Better decisions come from understanding your operation.
    • The SmartCare Business Snapshot helps members focus on what matters most.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is operational visibility?

    Operational visibility is the ability to clearly understand what's happening throughout your business by identifying patterns in production, customer service, quality, and financial performance.

    Why do so many problems go unnoticed?

    Most operational issues develop gradually. They often become accepted as "the way things are" until someone steps back and recognizes the pattern.

    What is the SmartCare Business Snapshot?

    The SmartCare Business Snapshot is an NCA member benefit that helps garment care businesses organize operational information, identify improvement opportunities, and prioritize their next steps using the SmartCare Method.

    Start Your SmartCare Business Snapshot

  • 22 Jul 2026 9:38 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Summer barbecue stains may look simple, but they're often among the most difficult stains professional cleaners encounter. Understanding what causes these stains and treating each component in the proper sequence can improve stain removal, reduce re-cleans, and deliver better results for your customers.

    By Alan Spielvogel
    Director of Technical Services
    National Cleaners Association

    Summer Means More Than Sunshine. It Means Tougher Stains.

    Summer is one of the busiest seasons for outdoor entertaining. Backyard barbecues, family picnics, company cookouts, festivals, and holiday celebrations all have one thing in common: food stains.

    Garments arrive at the plant with ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, hamburger grease, ribs, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, and countless other food spills. While these stains often appear straightforward, they frequently become some of the most challenging stains to remove successfully.

    The reason is simple.

    Most summer food stains are not a single stain. They're combination stains.

    Understanding Combination Stains

    A barbecue stain may contain several different staining substances at the same time.

    For example, a single drop of barbecue sauce can include:

    • Grease and cooking oils
    • Tomato-based ingredients
    • Sugars or corn syrup
    • Molasses
    • Vinegar
    • Mustard
    • Food coloring
    • Spices
    • Protein from meat

    Each of these materials responds differently to stain removal chemicals.

    Trying to remove the entire stain with one procedure often leaves behind part of the stain because only one component was treated.

    Professional stain removal begins by understanding exactly what you're trying to remove.

    The Proper Removal Sequence

    Because barbecue stains contain multiple staining substances, they should be treated in the proper order.

    Begin with a dryside procedure to remove grease and oils from the fabric.

    Once the oily portion has been removed, follow with a tannin procedure to remove the vegetable-based ingredients found in ketchup, barbecue sauce, mustard, and other condiments.

    If protein remains from meat, dairy products, or similar food sources, continue with a protein (albuminous) stain removal procedure.

    If a slight shadow of the stain is still visible after these steps, an appropriate bleaching agent, such as 3% hydrogen peroxide, sodium perborate, or sodium percarbonate, may be used to complete the removal process.

    Treating each component individually produces much better results than attempting to solve the entire stain with one procedure.

    Preventing Unnecessary Re-Cleans

    Many re-cleans happen because only part of a combination stain was removed during the first cleaning.

    When the garment returns to the customer, the remaining portion of the stain becomes visible, leading to additional labor, customer frustration, and reduced profitability.

    Taking a few extra moments to identify the type of stain before beginning the removal process often prevents a second cleaning altogether.

    The goal isn't simply removing what you can see.

    The goal is removing every component of the stain.

    Customer Communication Matters

    Summer is also an excellent opportunity to educate customers.

    Many people assume that if a stain looks small, it should be easy to remove. Explaining that barbecue stains often contain several different staining substances helps customers understand why professional garment care is so valuable.

    Good communication builds trust and demonstrates the expertise that separates professional cleaners from home stain removal attempts.

    Key Takeaways

    • Most summer food stains are combination stains.
    • One stain may contain grease, proteins, sugars, tomato products, and food coloring.
    • Treat stains in the proper sequence rather than relying on a single procedure.
    • Proper stain identification reduces re-cleans.
    • Customer education reinforces the value of professional garment care.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why are barbecue stains so difficult to remove?

    Barbecue stains usually contain multiple staining substances, including grease, proteins, sugars, tomato products, spices, and food coloring. Each component requires a different stain removal approach.

    What is a combination stain?

    A combination stain contains more than one type of staining substance. Summer food stains are among the most common examples.

    Why is stain removal sequence important?

    Removing grease first allows the remaining stain components to be treated more effectively, improving the likelihood of complete stain removal.

    Alan's Technical Tip

    When a barbecue stain doesn't come out the first time, don't assume the garment needs another cleaning. It may simply need the next stain removal procedure in the proper sequence.


    About the National Cleaners Association

    The National Cleaners Association provides technical education, garment analysis, compliance resources, and business tools to help professional garment care businesses improve operations and better serve their customers.


  • 30 Jun 2026 4:43 PM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)



    A Practical Heat Safety Guide for Dry Cleaning Operations

    Summer is one of the busiest seasons for garment care businesses. It is also one of the most physically demanding.

    Long production days, increased customer volume, and higher temperatures combine to place additional stress on both employees and equipment. While many people associate heat illness with outdoor occupations, dry cleaning plants present their own unique challenges.

    Boilers, shirt units, presses, steam tunnels, finishing stations, mechanical rooms, loading docks, and delivery vehicles can all create environments where temperatures rise well above what employees experience outside.

    Heat affects far more than comfort.

    It affects judgment.

    It affects productivity.

    It affects safety.

    For business owners, heat management should be viewed as another operational system that deserves planning, accountability, and daily attention.

    Why Heat Matters

    Heat stress develops when the body cannot cool itself efficiently.

    As employees become overheated, they may experience fatigue, dehydration, dizziness, slower reaction times, and reduced concentration. These conditions increase the likelihood of production errors, equipment accidents, customer service mistakes, and workplace injuries.

    The busiest weeks of the year are often the hottest weeks of the year.

    That combination deserves attention.

    Heat Is an Operational Issue

    Many owners think of heat as simply another uncomfortable part of summer.

    Successful operations treat it differently.

    They recognize that excessive heat affects:

    • Productivity
    • Employee morale
    • Decision-making
    • Quality control
    • Workplace safety
    • Customer service

    The goal is not simply keeping employees comfortable.

    The goal is maintaining safe, consistent performance throughout the day.

    Start Every Morning with a Heat Assessment

    Before production begins, supervisors should evaluate working conditions for the day.

    Daily Heat Planning Checklist

    □ Review today's forecast and heat index.

    □ Identify the hottest work areas.

    □ Confirm drinking water is available throughout the plant.

    □ Verify fans and ventilation systems are operating correctly.

    □ Adjust production schedules if extreme heat is expected.

    □ Rotate employees working in high-heat locations whenever practical.

    Planning takes only a few minutes but can significantly reduce heat-related problems later in the day.

    Monitor Conditions Throughout the Shift

    Heat conditions change as production increases.

    Supervisors should regularly observe employees rather than waiting for someone to ask for help.

    Supervisor Checklist

    □ Encourage employees to drink water frequently.

    □ Schedule regular cooling breaks.

    □ Rotate employees between hot and cooler workstations.

    □ Monitor new employees closely as they acclimate.

    □ Watch for signs of fatigue, confusion, or dizziness.

    □ Modify workloads if temperatures continue to rise.

    Know the Warning Signs

    Recognizing symptoms early can prevent a medical emergency.

    Heat Exhaustion

    Common symptoms include:

    • Heavy sweating
    • Fatigue
    • Weakness
    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Muscle cramps
    • Nausea
    • Cool, clammy skin

    Employees experiencing these symptoms should move to a cool area, drink water, loosen restrictive clothing, and be monitored until they recover.

    Heat Stroke

    Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency.

    Watch for:

    • Confusion
    • Slurred speech
    • Loss of consciousness
    • Seizures
    • Hot skin
    • High body temperature

    Call emergency medical services immediately if heat stroke is suspected.

    While waiting for responders, begin cooling the individual using cool water, ice packs, or other available cooling methods.

    High-Risk Areas Inside the Plant

    Certain areas should receive additional attention during the summer months.

    Daily Plant Walkthrough

    □ Boiler room

    □ Shirt unit

    □ Utility presses

    □ Steam tunnels

    □ Finishing stations

    □ Mechanical rooms

    □ Loading dock

    □ Delivery vehicles

    Conditions can change throughout the day, making regular walkthroughs important.

    Every Plant Needs a Heat Plan

    One of the most common management mistakes is assuming someone else is paying attention.

    Heat safety should have clear ownership.

    Weekly Management Review

    Ask these questions:

    • Who is responsible for monitoring heat conditions?
    • Have employees received heat illness training?
    • Is drinking water always available?
    • Are cooling breaks being taken?
    • Are supervisors actively monitoring employees?
    • Does everyone know emergency procedures?

    If any answer is uncertain, the plan needs improvement.

    Good Systems Reduce Risk

    Strong operations do not wait for problems before taking action.

    They build systems that prevent problems from occurring.

    Heat management follows the same principle.

    A written plan, clear supervisory responsibility, regular monitoring, and consistent communication help reduce injuries while supporting better operational performance.

    The objective is not simply OSHA compliance.

    The objective is protecting your people while maintaining the quality, consistency, and professionalism your customers expect.

    Practical Action for This Week

    Choose one manager or supervisor to own heat safety each day.

    Before production begins:

    • Review temperatures.
    • Inspect high-heat areas.
    • Confirm water availability.
    • Monitor employee conditions throughout the shift.
    • Adjust workloads as needed.

    When responsibility is clear, heat safety becomes part of your operational system rather than an afterthought.

    Additional Resources

    Visit OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention resources for current guidance, educational materials, and planning tools, and review them alongside your company's existing safety procedures. Adapt the recommendations to fit your facility, equipment, staffing, and local working conditions.


  • 28 Jun 2026 6:11 PM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)



    Why the SmartCare SOP Framework Is Changing How Independent Garment Care Businesses Operate


    By Dawn Hargrove-Avery
    Executive Director & Chief AI Officer
    National Cleaners Association

    Most independent garment care businesses do not struggle because they lack experience.

    They struggle because too much of that experience exists only inside people's heads.

    A master presser knows exactly how to finish a difficult garment.

    A spotting technician knows the sequence for removing an unusual stain.

    A customer service representative knows how to calm an upset customer.

    The owner knows why certain decisions are made.

    But what happens when those people are absent?

    What happens when new employees are hired?

    What happens when the business begins to grow?

    Knowledge that is never documented cannot be consistently repeated.

    That is why Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) matter.

    SOPs Are More Than Written Instructions

    Many businesses think of SOPs as manuals sitting on a shelf.

    The SmartCare Method approaches them differently.

    An SOP is a repeatable operating system.

    It captures:

    • Best practices
    • Decision points
    • Quality standards
    • Safety requirements
    • Customer experience expectations
    • Accountability
    • Continuous improvement

    The goal is not paperwork.

    The goal is consistency.

    Why Traditional SOPs Often Fail

    Many businesses spend weeks writing procedures that no one reads.

    Others create manuals that become outdated almost immediately.

    The SmartCare SOP Framework was designed differently.

    Instead of creating static documents, it creates living operational systems that can evolve alongside the business.

    Procedures become:

    • Workflow guides
    • Decision trees
    • Checklists
    • Training tools
    • AI-assisted coaching resources
    • Performance standards

    This allows employees to learn faster while reducing variation across the operation.

    The SmartCare SOP Framework

    Within SmartCare OS, SOPs become part of a larger operational intelligence system.

    Every process can be documented using the same structure:

    Purpose

    Why does this process exist?

    Scope

    Who performs the task?

    When does it apply?

    Standard Process

    The repeatable steps required to complete the work correctly.

    Decision Points

    When should employees stop?

    When should they escalate?

    What conditions require management approval?

    Quality Standards

    What defines success?

    How is quality measured?

    Customer Experience

    How should the customer experience this process?

    Continuous Improvement

    How is the procedure updated as the business learns?

    AI Makes SOPs More Useful

    Artificial intelligence does not replace Standard Operating Procedures.

    It makes them easier to create.

    Easier to organize.

    Easier to search.

    Easier to improve.

    Within SmartCare OS, AI helps owners:

    • Build new SOPs
    • Improve existing procedures
    • Identify missing documentation
    • Organize operational knowledge
    • Recommend improvements
    • Support employee training

    The result is not automation replacing people.

    It is better systems supporting people.

    Preserving Knowledge Before It Is Lost

    Many independent businesses are approaching a significant workforce transition.

    Experienced employees are retiring.

    Owners are preparing succession plans.

    New employees enter the workforce with little industry experience.

    Without documented operating systems, decades of expertise disappear.

    The SmartCare SOP Framework helps preserve that knowledge for future generations.

    Why This Matters for Associations

    Trade associations have traditionally focused on education.

    The next evolution is implementation.

    Instead of simply teaching best practices, associations can help members build operational systems that make those best practices repeatable.

    That is the philosophy behind SmartCare OS.

    It helps businesses move from knowing what to do to consistently doing it.

    A Better Business Begins With Better Systems

    Every successful business eventually reaches the same conclusion.

    People matter.

    Technology matters.

    But systems determine whether success can be repeated.

    The SmartCare SOP Framework helps independent garment care businesses build those systems one process at a time, creating organizations that are more consistent, more profitable, easier to train, and better prepared for the future.

    Because operational excellence is not built by chance.

    It is built by design.

    SEO Metadata

    Title:
    The SmartCare SOP Framework | Building AI-Ready Standard Operating Procedures

    Meta Description:
    Learn how the SmartCare SOP Framework helps garment care businesses create AI-ready Standard Operating Procedures, improve consistency, preserve operational knowledge, and build repeatable business systems.

    URL Slug:
    /smartcare-sop-framework

    I would also make this article the foundation of an entire "SmartCare Frameworks" library on SmartCareOS.com. That library could include:

    • The SmartCare SOP Framework
    • The SmartCare Method
    • The Readiness Reset
    • The AI Readiness Gap
    • Intent Engineering
    • The SmartCare Business Snapshot
    • Operational Intelligence
    • Decision Intelligence
    • AI Governance for Small Business

    Together, those frameworks become one of the strongest bodies of evidence supporting your award nominations while also establishing SmartCare OS as a methodology, not just a technology platform.


    Frequently Asked Questions About Standard Operating Procedures

    What is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)?

    A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is a documented, repeatable process that explains how a task should be completed consistently. Effective SOPs help organizations improve quality, reduce errors, accelerate employee training, and preserve operational knowledge.

    Why are SOPs important for small businesses?

    Small businesses often rely on employee experience rather than documented systems. SOPs reduce dependency on individual knowledge by creating repeatable processes that improve consistency, accountability, and business continuity.

    How does AI improve Standard Operating Procedures?

    Artificial intelligence helps businesses organize, update, search, and improve SOPs faster. AI can identify missing procedures, recommend improvements, create first drafts, and make operational knowledge easier for employees to access.

    What is the SmartCare SOP Framework?

    The SmartCare SOP Framework is a structured methodology developed as part of SmartCare OS that helps garment care businesses transform operational knowledge into standardized procedures, workflows, decision trees, quality standards, and AI-supported business systems.

    What industries benefit from the SmartCare SOP Framework?

    The SmartCare SOP Framework was designed specifically for:

    • Dry cleaning
    • Wet cleaning
    • Commercial laundry
    • Textile care
    • Garment restoration
    • Route operations
    • Alterations
    • Uniform services

    The methodology can also be adapted to other service businesses.

    What should every SOP include?

    Every effective SOP should contain:

    • Purpose
    • Scope
    • Responsibilities
    • Standard process
    • Decision points
    • Quality standards
    • Customer experience expectations
    • Safety requirements
    • Continuous improvement process

    How does SmartCare OS use SOPs?

    SmartCare OS combines SOPs with AI-powered operational intelligence to help businesses:

    • Standardize workflows
    • Train employees
    • Preserve institutional knowledge
    • Improve customer experience
    • Increase operational consistency
    • Support continuous improvement
    • Strengthen business performance

    Can AI replace Standard Operating Procedures?

    No. AI does not replace SOPs.

    Instead, AI makes SOPs more valuable by helping businesses create, organize, update, and improve operational procedures while keeping human expertise at the center of decision-making.

    AEO Meta Information


  • 10 Jun 2026 8:33 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Heat Changes the Operation Before It Changes the Schedule

    Summer changes more than the weather.

    It changes the risk profile of the garments entering your plant.

    Most cleaners prepare for summer by thinking about volume, staffing, vacations, route schedules, and seasonal demand. Those are all important considerations. However, one of the biggest operational shifts during the summer months often goes unnoticed until a problem appears in production.

    Heat changes what arrives inside the garment.

    Perspiration, sunscreen, deodorants, body oils, insect repellents, cosmetics, and extended outdoor exposure all create forms of contamination that may not be immediately visible during intake. In many cases, the damage is already developing long before a garment reaches the spotting board.

    This is why summer is not simply a stain removal challenge.

    It is a recognition challenge.

    The strongest operators understand that successful cleaning begins with identification. Before a stain can be removed, a risk must first be recognized.

    Summer Damage Often Starts Invisible

    A white polo shirt may appear clean at first glance.

    A silk blouse may show no obvious staining.

    A special-event garment may look perfectly wearable.

    Yet beneath the surface, perspiration may already be weakening dyes, sunscreen may be interacting with fabric finishes, and body oils may be beginning the oxidation process.

    By the time visible discoloration appears, the damage has often been developing for weeks or months.

    The issue is not whether the contamination exists.

    The issue is whether someone recognized the possibility before processing began.

    Information Must Travel With the Garment

    Many operational mistakes occur because information stops at the counter.

    The customer tells the CSR that the garment was worn during an outdoor wedding.

    The customer mentions heavy perspiration.

    The customer explains that sunscreen was used throughout a vacation.

    The information is gathered, but it never reaches production.

    As a result, spotters, cleaners, and finishers are forced to make decisions without understanding what may already be developing inside the fabric.

    Recognition only creates value when information moves through the operation.

    A simple note indicating:

    • Heavy perspiration exposure
    • Sunscreen contact
    • Outdoor event use
    • Noticeable odor
    • Color change concerns
    • Areas of visible weakening

    can dramatically improve downstream decision-making.

    Technology Cannot Replace Recognition

    Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital intake tools can help organize information and improve consistency.

    They can create better notes.

    They can improve documentation.

    They can help standardize communication.

    What they cannot do is replace professional judgment.

    The cleaner still owns the inspection.

    The cleaner still owns the process.

    The cleaner still owns the customer conversation.

    Technology works best when it supports a clear process. If the workflow is inconsistent, automation simply makes the inconsistency happen faster.

    Start Small This Week

    Choose one high-risk summer garment category.

    Examples might include:

    • White polo shirts
    • Silk blouses
    • Golf apparel
    • Wedding guest attire
    • Special-event garments

    Then define three things:

    What should the counter inspect?

    What should production document?

    When should the customer be warned about potential limitations?

    A simple process followed consistently is often more effective than a complicated process followed occasionally.

    One Rule To Remember

    Summer problems rarely begin in production.

    They begin when a risk was present but never identified.

    Identify before you act.


  • 10 Jun 2026 8:10 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    SmartCare OS

    Compliance Is a Visibility Problem

    Most compliance problems do not occur because business owners intentionally ignore requirements.

    They occur because people get busy.

    Production schedules change. Customers need attention. Equipment requires maintenance. Employees need training. Deadlines compete for attention. What seemed important last week suddenly becomes urgent today.

    That is why the most successful operators do not treat compliance as a separate activity.

    They build it into the operating system.

    At its core, compliance is not a paperwork problem.

    It is a visibility problem.

    A missed inspection, expired posting, overdue training record, forgotten waste log, or lapsed insurance renewal rarely happens because someone made a conscious decision to ignore it. Most compliance issues occur because the information was not visible at the right time.

    SmartCare OS is built around a simple principle:

    What gets seen gets managed.

    When critical operational information remains visible, people take action. When information disappears into file cabinets, email folders, sticky notes, or someone's memory, risk increases.

    The strongest operations create systems that make important tasks visible before they become urgent.

    For many cleaners, compliance visibility should include:

    • Safety training records

    • Required workplace postings

    • Equipment inspection logs

    • Waste and environmental documentation

    • Insurance renewal dates

    • Employee records

    • Vendor and contractor documentation

    • Facility maintenance schedules

    The exact requirements vary based on your operation, location, equipment, employee count, and applicable regulations. However, the underlying principle remains the same.

    Visibility reduces risk.

    Instead of relying on memory, SmartCare OS encourages operators to create a weekly operational rhythm.

    Monday:
    Review upcoming deadlines and open compliance items.

    Wednesday:
    Verify records are current and documentation is complete.

    Friday:
    Confirm completion, file supporting records, and identify upcoming requirements.

    The process does not need to be complicated.

    It simply needs to be consistent.

    When compliance becomes part of the weekly operating rhythm, it becomes easier to manage, easier to delegate, and easier to prove when questions arise.

    SmartCare OS Action Item

    Choose one compliance-related task that currently relies on memory.

    Create a checklist.

    Assign ownership.

    Schedule a recurring review.

    Document completion.

    Repeat weekly.

    Small systems create consistent results.

    Compliance Visibility Check

    Ask yourself:

    • Do we know what deadlines are approaching in the next 30 days?

    • Can we locate required records quickly?

    • Is ownership assigned for compliance-related tasks?

    • Would we be prepared if an inspector arrived tomorrow?

    If any answer is uncertain, that uncertainty may represent an opportunity for improvement.

    One Rule To Remember

    Compliance works best when it becomes part of the system, not part of someone's memory.

    SmartCare OS Perspective:
    Visibility creates accountability. Accountability creates consistency. Consistency reduces risk.

    Human Review Note: Verify all OSHA, EPA, TSCA, state, local, insurance, and employment requirements before publishing specific deadlines, thresholds, exemptions, penalties, or regulatory interpretations.


  • 10 Jun 2026 8:07 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    The Stain You Can't See May Be The One Causing The Damage

    Most customers judge a garment by appearance.

    If it looks clean, smells fine, and has only been worn once or twice, they often assume it does not need cleaning.

    Unfortunately, some of the most damaging contamination found in garments cannot be seen at all.

    Perspiration is one of the most common examples.

    Fresh perspiration is often colorless and may leave little or no visible evidence on a garment. However, perspiration contains acids and chloride salts that continue to interact with fabric long after the garment is removed. Antiperspirants add another layer of risk because many contain metallic salts and alcohols that can react with dyes and fibers over time.

    The result is often delayed damage.

    A white blouse may begin to yellow in the underarm area.

    A dark garment may develop discoloration or fading.

    A favorite shirt may weaken and tear long before its expected lifespan.

    By the time these changes become visible, the damage has often been developing for months.

    Certain fabrics are especially vulnerable. Silk, acetate, rayon, sulfur-dyed cottons, and fabrics containing optical brighteners can all be affected by prolonged exposure to perspiration. In some cases, the fibers themselves begin to weaken while the garment still appears perfectly normal from the outside.

    This is one reason professional cleaning should never be based solely on appearance.

    Cleaning removes more than visible stains. It removes the invisible contaminants that continue working against the fabric after each wearing.

    The risk becomes even greater when garments are stored without cleaning. Seasonal clothing, formalwear, uniforms, and special-occasion garments often sit in closets for months while perspiration and body oils slowly oxidize within the fabric.

    Customers are frequently surprised when yellowing suddenly appears after storage.

    The truth is that the discoloration often started long before the garment was put away.

    What This Means For Cleaners

    This is an excellent customer education opportunity.

    When customers request a garment to be "pressed only" because it looks clean, explain that the absence of visible staining does not mean the garment is free from contamination.

    Invisible soils can become visible stains later.

    One Rule To Remember

    Clean based on wear, not appearance.


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News Update:

We have been made aware that National Waste sold its facility to Clean Earth.

www.cleanearth.com/contact

If you visit, www.cleanearth.com/contact and fill out the form, you can get registered as a customer.

Clean Earth Phone Number: 866-303-7644

Another option for waste removal is.

Clean Harbors- Clean Harbors recently purchased Safety Clean

Visit www cleanharbors.com/locations for a complete list of the facilities.

example NY  631-703-3451     Bridgeport NJ 856-467-3103

ERC FAQ's



I already received PPP. Can I still get the ERC?

The simple answer is YES! On December 27, 2020, The Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020 was enacted. This Act modified the ERC credit rules. One change included a modification that permits a company to have a PPP loan, and also be able to take advantage of the ERC credit. But, you may not use the same dollar for dollar funds. We consider this when we process your ERC credit.

How will my ERC tax credit be disbursed?

We are proud to have established the ERC Master Trust for the benefit of our clients’ Tax Refunds. Eastern Point Trust Company (EPTC) — the same prestigious Trust Company that assisted in disbursing the Flint Contaminated Water Fund, The NFL CTE Concussion Fund, the Bernie Madoff Settlement Fund, and many other nationally known Escrow accounts — is our trust company. Feel safe knowing that all funds received are deposited directly into the Eastern Point Trust Company and are placed into the ERC Master Trust; then dispersed into separate sub-trust accounts for each individual client.

How do I repay the ERC Credit?

Another simple answer…You don’t! The ERC credit IS NOT A LOAN! The ERC credit is a refundable tax credit that you are eligible to receive if you meet the criteria. If you do not file for the ERC credit and are eligible for it, you will lose out on receiving thousands, or even millions of dollars that are actually owed to you.


How long does it usually take to get my ERC Credit?

The process works in 5 easy steps:

  • You submit our pre-qualifying questionnaire.
  • You will receive a link to upload the documents we will request.
  • Within 2-7 days (and at no charge), we provide you the exact dollar amount of the credit you are owed.
  • If you decide to contract with us, you will select a payment option, and your claim will be filed.
  • Your refund will be generated by the IRS (there is currently a 20-week minimum backlog for ERC refunds).

Why should I contract ERC Helpdesk…can’t my CPA file for me?

The only service ERC Helpdesk provides is the calculation and filing for ERC refunds—which is based on your payroll. Your CPA likely handles your business income tax returns. ERC is likely not their specialty. While your CPA can file for your ERC, it is highly likely that because of their unfamiliarity with The Cares Act and ERC credit, they might miss important findings that can make your ERC refund greater. To put it in simpler terms, we are ERC credit experts; your CPA is a tax specialist. You need an ERC expert to maximize the opportunity for a greater ERC refund. In fact, many CPAs and payroll companies do not want to file ERC and refer their clients to us.

Can I qualify for the ERC program if my 2020 revenue went up?

Another resounding, “YES!” There are two qualifiers for 2020: either revenue reduction, or a “full or partial shutdown of your business due to COVID-19.” The IRS describes this as “A government authority required partial or full shutdown of your business during 2020 or 2021. This includes your operations being limited by commerce, inability to travel or restrictions of group meetings.” These are some examples of possible qualifying events:

A business that ordinarily met with clients in person had to cancel meetings due to COVID-19.

A restaurant was forced to close and/or limit its on-site dining capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Supply chain interruptions caused your business to have delayed production timelines.

COVID-19 restrictions lowered the amount of people who could attend an event with your business.

Your business had to reduce operating hours due to COVID-19 cleaning requirements and restrictions.

Will the IRS run out of ERC funds?

The government has funded $400 billion for the ERC credit program. When the funds are exhausted, the program will end. If you are an eligible employer, currently, there are funds available, and you will receive the ERC credit. The faster you file, the more likely you are to receive your credit.

As an owner, do my wages or the wages of any family member I employ qualify?

Maybe. Wages of owners who have majority ownership, defined as over 50%, do not qualify, nor do the W2 wages of any immediate family members of the owner. In the case an owner has 50% or less ownership, their W2 wages qualify, as do the W2 wages paid to immediate family members.

Is the ERC Credit taxable?

For federal income tax purposes, you will need to provide the credit information to your CPA and report it on your tax return.

We have researched the Employee Retention Credit, but we do not offer accounting or legal advice. Please contact your attorney and CPA regarding this program.

Blog posts

According to the record, The City Council took this action based on the recommendation of the Workplace Taskforce, of which the NCA was an active member.

On July 18, 2021, the City enacted Local Law 80 of 2021, which repeals the licensing requirement for retail laundries. This repeal goes into effect on December 31, 2021.

Beginning December 31, 2021, you will no longer need a Retail Laundry license from DCWP to operate your retail laundry business. Because the license is no longer required, DCWP will no longer accept new or renewal license applications.

NOTE: Industrial Laundry and Industrial Laundry Delivery businesses will continue to be licensed. The license repeal is only for Retail Laundries.

NEXT STEPS:

On December 31, 2021, your current Retail Laundry license will expire and you may take down DCWP’s license sign. You will not need to surrender or renew your Retail Laundry license.

Even though you will no longer need a license for your retail laundry, you will still be required to comply with other laws DCWP enforces, such as:

  • Your business’s bills, tickets, business cards, advertising and stationery must list your business name and address;
  • Every document (example: receipt, delivery ticket, invoice, statement, etc.) that contains charges to a consumer must accurately and clearly state each of the laundry charges, not just the total charge;
  • All vehicles used for delivery of laundry must include your business’s name, address, and telephone number in letters at least 2 inches in height;
  • You must post a price list where orders are placed or payments are made by consumers;
  • Your price list must contain a list of services offered, the minimum price charged for each service, and a description of any factors that may cause the price to be higher than the minimum. Your price list must not contain different prices for men and women for the same services;
  • If scales are used to weigh laundry on the premises, each scale must have a DCWP seal and must be inspected annually;
  • If your business offers self-service laundry machines to the general public:
  • an attendant must be on site from 8:00 P.M. until closing or 6:00 A.M. the following day, whichever is earlier; and
  • you must post a sign in a location that is clearly visible to consumers which states to whom complaints and claims for refunds must be made.


Repeal of Retail Laundry License


COVID-19 Response Document


https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20213-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

Sections 3203 and 4510 of the Insurance Law are modified to extend the grace period for the payment of premiums and fees to 90 days for any life insurance policyholder or fraternal benefit society certificate holder, as those terms are used in such sections, facing a financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic;  

Sections 3203, 3219, and 3220 of the Insurance Law are modified to provide a life insurance policyholder or annuity contract holder or a certificate holder, as those terms are used in such sections, under a group policy or contract with 90 days to exercise rights or benefits under the applicable life insurance policy or annuity contract for any policyholder or contract holder or certificate holder under the group policy or contract who is unable timely to exercise rights or benefits as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic;

Section 1116 and Articles 34, 53, 54, and 55 of the Insurance Law and Sections 54 and 226 of the Workers’ Compensation Law are modified to impose a moratorium on an insurer canceling, non-renewing, or conditionally renewing any insurance policy issued to an individual or small business, or, in the case of a group insurance policy, insuring certificate holders that are individuals or small businesses, for a period of 60 days, for any policyholder, or in the case of a group insurance policy, group policyholder or certificate holder, facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The foregoing relief shall also apply to the kinds of insurance set forth in paragraphs (16), (17), (20), (21), (24), (26), and (30) of Section 1113(a) of the Insurance Law.  For purposes of this Executive Order, a small business shall mean any business that is resident in this State, is independently owned and operated, and employs one hundred or fewer individuals;

City

New York City – 5 Boroughs

NY Hero Act, Model Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan

Protecting New York Workers from Airborne Diseases

On May 5, 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) into law. The law mandates extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the NY HERO Act is to protect employees against exposure and disease during a future airborne infectious disease outbreak.

Under this new law, the New York State Department of Labor (NYS DOL), in consultation with the NYS Department of Health, has developed a new Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Standard, a Model Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Plan, and various industry-specific model plans for the prevention of airborne infectious disease. Employers can choose to adopt the applicable policy template/plan provided by NYS DOL or establish an alternative plan that meets or exceeds the standard’s minimum requirements.

The airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plans must go into effect when an airborne infectious disease is designated by the New York State Commissioner of Health as a highly contagious communicable disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health. 

Currently, while employers must adopt plans as required by the law, as of the date of this writing no designation has been made and plans are not required to be in effect.

The standard and model plans are available in English and will be available in Spanish in the coming days. Employers are required to provide a copy of the adopted airborne infectious disease exposure prevention plan and post the same in a visible and prominent location within each worksite.

Templates that apply to the Dry Cleaning Industry

Eviction Updates by State


Economic Injury Disaster Loan Assistance:

https://www.sba.gov/disaster/apply-for-disaster-loan/index.html

Online Application:

https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOAN SUPPORTING INFORMATION

https://www.sba.gov/disaster/apply-for-disaster-loan/pdfs/Economic%20Injury%20Disaster%20Loan%20Supporting%20Information%20(P-019).pdf

Additional Forms

A Disaster Assistance loan officer may request you to fill out the following additional forms:

Home Loans or Sole Proprietor Loans

Download corresponding forms below:

Mailing Instructions

All required documents listed below under Forms must be returned. All forms requiring signature must be signed and dated. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

U.S. Small Business Administration

Processing and Disbursement Center

14925 Kingsport Rd.

Ft. Worth, TX 76155-2243

If you have any questions, please contact 1-800-659-2955 or (TTY) (800) 877-8339

Use this form to upload your disaster loan application.

the 100 most active SBA 7(a) lending banks

https://www.sba.gov/article/2020/mar/02/100-most-active-sba-7a-lenders

State

New York- Insurance

NYS Executive Order 202.13   Re-Insurance Law Modifications

Insurance Carriers must allow a 60 day grace period

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20213-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

Sections 3203 and 4510 of the Insurance Law are modified to extend the grace period for the payment of premiums and fees to 90 days for any life insurance policyholder or fraternal benefit society certificate holder, as those terms are used in such sections, facing a financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic;

• Sections 3203, 3219, and 3220 of the Insurance Law are modified to provide a life insurance policyholder or annuity contract holder or a certificate holder, as those terms are used in such sections, under a group policy or contract with 90 days to exercise rights or benefits under the applicable life insurance policy or annuity contract for any policyholder or contract holder or certificate holder under the group policy or contract who is unable timely to exercise rights or benefits as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic;

• Section 1116 and Articles 34, 53, 54, and 55 of the Insurance Law and Sections 54 and 226 of the Workers’ Compensation Law are modified to impose a moratorium on an insurer canceling, non-renewing, or conditionally renewing any insurance policy issued to an individual or small business, or, in the case of a group insurance policy, insuring certificate holders that are individuals or small businesses, for a period of 60 days, for any policyholder, or in the case of a group insurance policy, group policyholder or certificate holder, facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The foregoing relief shall also apply to the kinds of insurance set forth in paragraphs (16), (17), (20), (21), (24), (26), and (30) of Section 1113(a) of the Insurance Law.  For purposes of this Executive Order, a small business shall mean any business that is resident in this State, is independently owned and operated, and employs one hundred or fewer individuals;

Small Business

Federal

CARES

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program, the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses who maintain their payroll during this emergency.

What will lenders be LOOKING FOR?

In evaluating eligibility, lenders are directed to consider whether the borrower was in operation before February 15, 2020, and had employees for whom they paid salaries and payroll taxes or paid independent contractors.

Lenders will also ask you for a good faith certification that:

1. The uncertainty of current economic conditions makes the loan request necessary to support ongoing operations

2. The borrower will use the loan proceeds to retain workers and maintain payroll or make mortgage, lease, and utility payments

3. Borrower does not have an application pending for a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here

4. From Feb. 15, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2020, the borrower has not received a loan duplicative of the purpose and amounts applied for here (Note: There is an opportunity to fold emergency loans made between Jan. 31, 2020 and the date this loan program becomes available into a new loan)

If you are an independent contractor, sole proprietor, or self-employed individual, lenders will also be looking for certain documents (final requirements will be announced by the government) such as payroll tax filings, Forms 1099-MISC, and income and expenses from the sole proprietorship.

Revised PPP application form (4/2/2020)

https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Paycheck-Protection-Program-Application-3-30-2020-v3.pdf

Revised PPP Loan Updated (6/2020)

As of Thursday morning, the Senate unanimously approved a new bill that makes PPP loans more flexible in how and when they’re used. The House passed its version last week. Now, the bill just needs to be signed by the president for it to become law.

The centerpiece of the CARES Act, the PPP, was intended to prop up small businesses like dry cleaners and help keep small business employees on the payroll. Loans can be for 2.5 times payroll costs, with no collateral. Most significantly, PPP loans can be forgiven, fully or in part, depending on if borrowers maintain headcounts and payrolls at pre-pandemic levels and use their loan for permitted expenses.  Many cleaners applied for, and some received this assistance

The money can be used for payroll (no more than $100,000 annual salary per employee) as well as benefits (including paid sick leave and insurance premiums) and taxes on compensation. The new bill passed by the Senate allows for up to 40% (rather than 25%) of the loan to be used to cover mortgage interest, rent, and utilities.

The new bill also expands the amount of time borrowers have to spend their loan and have them forgiven. Before, covered expenses had to be incurred over the eight weeks right after loan disbursement. Now, small business owners have 24 weeks. Also, they have until December 31, 2020 (instead of June 30) to rehire or restaff up to their pre-pandemic level.

Any portion of the loan that is not forgiven will carry an interest rate of 1.0% and is due to be paid back within five (instead of two) years. However, payments are deferred for the first six months. There’s no pre-payment penalty.


PPP Loan Forgiveness

Borrowers will have their loans forgiven if they use the money for designated expenses. Participants are eligible for loan forgiveness for the amounts spent on authorized expenses over 24 weeks after loan disbursement.

Total payments for payroll may be forgivable. Mortgage interest, rent, and utilities are also forgivable, up to 40% of the PPP loan. (Note that if your loan is forgiven, these expenses covered by the loan are not tax-deductible, the IRS recently stated in Notice 2020-32.)

To get the entire amount of the loan forgiven (assuming that at least 60% is spent on payroll and the rest on permitted expenses), you must meet two criteria. 

First, the full-time employee headcount cannot decline from average monthly levels during 2019 or during the past 12 months. If your business launched in the second half of 2019, you can use average headcounts from January 1, 2020, to February 29, 2020. If your business is seasonal, you can base your monthly averages on numbers from February 15, 2019, or March 1, 2019, to June 30, 2019.

Second, for loans to become full grants, employers cannot cut salaries or wages. If they do, the forgiven amount will be reduced. Employers who already let workers go (between February 15 and April 26, 2020) have until December 31 to restaff.

The SBA has released the application for PPP loan forgiveness. It is two pages, plus nine pages of instructions and worksheets.  Three big changes to note:

1.      Instead of having to use your loan to cover the eight weeks right after loan disbursement, borrowers can start with the first pay period after the loan disbursement. (So if you receive the loan on Thursday, and your next pay period starts on Sunday, you can start with that Sunday pay period.)

2.      Borrowers are not required to report all allowed non-payroll costs (i.e., rent, mortgage interest, and utilities) if they don’t want to include them in the forgiveness amount. Before, there was some confusion over this; the flexibility may help borrowers keep their non-payroll costs within the required percentage (25%).

3.      The SBA recognizes that some employees who have been let go may get new jobs, or some may be fired with cause. So now there is a safe harbor for these situations.

--  The SBA has a summary of loan terms here.  link address.....https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/PPP--Fact-Sheet.pdf 

If you were wary of applying for PPP money before due to the nebulous information regarding forgiveness, consult with your accountant about whether the new terms make it a more comfortable fit for your business.

To increase your likelihood of getting money in the new round of funding, you should line up a bank and apply right away. Applications have slowed down compared to the first round, but the program is first-come, first-served. The deadline is June 30.  


Small Business Continuity Fund

1. As of March 27th, applications are open for INTEREST-FREE LOANS through the Small Business Continuity Fund. Go to https://www1.nyc.gov/nycbusiness/article/nyc-small-business-continuity-loan-program

The Fund, a public-private partnership between Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Tapestry, Inc.’s Coach Foundation and Pursuit, offers loans of up to $75,000 to small businesses in New York City as they deal with various challenges in response to the novel coronavirus. To qualify, businesses must:

• Be located within the five boroughs of New York City

• Demonstrate that the COVID-19 outbreak caused at least a 25% decrease in revenue

• Employ 99 employees or fewer in total across all locations • Demonstrate ability to repay the loan

• Have no outstanding tax liens or legal judgments

As part of the application, businesses will be required to demonstrate a revenue decrease by providing documentation such as: point-of-sales reports, bank statements, quarterly sales tax filings, 2019 tax returns, or CPA-certified profit & loss statements. Goldman Sachs Foundation will provide a grant to support technical assistance and capacity-building for the Small Business Continuity Fund.


The Employee Retention Grant Program

2. The Employee Retention Grant Program is available to help small businesses deal with the impact of COVID-19. Go to https://www1.nyc.gov/nycbusiness/article/nyc-employee-retention-grant-program

The City has launched the Employee Retention Grant Program to help retain employees as businesses face decreased revenue.

This program is available to New York City businesses with:

a. one to four employees and

b. can demonstrate at least a 25% decrease in revenue as a result of COVID-19.

Eligible businesses will receive a grant covering up to 40% of their payroll for two months. Businesses can access up to $27,000.

Who Can Apply?

Businesses must:

  • Be located within the five boroughs of New York City

  • Demonstrate that the COVID-19 outbreak caused at least a 25% decrease in revenue

  • Employ 1-4 employees in total across all locations

  • Have been in operation for at least 6 months

  • Have no outstanding tax liens or legal judgments

3. Northern Manhattan Emergency Recovery Fund

The Northern Manhattan Emergency Recovery Fund has received $2 million from Presbyterian Hospital for immediate relief to aid in the recovery and development of the community. The Fund will be administered by the Hispanic

 Federation. Go here for details https://hispanicfederation.org/nomafund/


For Employees

Federal

State 

City 


Things to Consider

Miscellaneous

The New York State ban on plastic bags has been postponed from April 1st toMay 15th Utilities have been ordered to not shut off service for gas, water, or electricity.

For NYC Employees

Verizon, Spectrum, and other cable providers' offer for free internet for households with school-age children. Verizon is also offering other learning tools and some premium TV channels offered to customers at no additional cost. Read the release: http://verizon.com/about/news/verizon-customers-learning-tools-premium-tv

Con Ed has halted all meter reading and installation of smart meters; stopped shutoffs of electric, natural gas or steam service due to non-payment resulting from the health crisis; waived new late-payment charges; and suspended the fee charged to a customer who is unable to grant access to their property. They WILL continue to shut off service when there is a safety issue. Customer service walk-in centers are shut. Residential customers can choose one of the alternate ways to pay their bill, including online at My Account, by mail with a check or money order, or by phone at 1-888-925-5016,

SNAP ASSISTANCE. The nonprofit expensify.org will reimburse SNAP participants $50 after they use their EBT card for approved purchases and submit a receipt. They are allocating these funds to help families in need to purchase essential groceries during the COVID-19 outbreak. There's no "catch" and the money is directly deposited into the participant's bank account. Employees should visit Expensify.org/hunger for more information.

Beginning Monday, March 23rd, free meals will be distributed at more than 400 sites across the city. Students may pick up three meals at one time. Find a location near you.

The New York State ban on plastic bags has been postponed from April 1st to May 15th 


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