Menu
Log in

News

<< First  < Prev   1   2   3   4   5   ...   Next >  Last >> 
  • 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.


  • 27 May 2026 6:30 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Heat Damage During Pressing: Understanding Fabric Sensitivity in Garment Finishing

    Professional garment finishing requires more than simply removing wrinkles. Proper pressing techniques depend heavily on understanding how different fibers respond to heat, moisture, and pressure. Using the wrong temperature setting can permanently damage a garment, while using insufficient heat may leave fabrics looking unfinished or unprofessional.

    Knowing how fabrics react during pressing is essential for maintaining garment quality, avoiding costly claims, and delivering consistent results to customers.

    Why Heat Control Matters

    Each fabric type has its own tolerance for heat exposure. Some fibers can withstand high temperatures with minimal risk, while others can scorch, shine, melt, or distort if pressed improperly. In many cases, the damage caused during finishing is irreversible.

    Professional cleaners should always evaluate:

    • Fiber content
    • Fabric construction
    • Surface texture
    • Manufacturer care label instructions
    • Appropriate moisture and steam levels

    A careful approach helps reduce re-cleans, customer complaints, and garment replacement costs.

    High-Heat Tolerant Woven Fabrics

    Woven cotton, linen, ramie, and many silks generally tolerate higher pressing temperatures well. These fabrics often require higher heat to achieve a crisp, professional appearance.

    Typical finishing practices include:

    • Using a hot-head press while the garment is damp
    • Applying sizing agents when appropriate
    • Using steam to help shape and smooth the fabric

    When using a steam iron on these fabrics, some operators may remove the Teflon shoe to increase direct heat transfer. However, this should only be done if:

    • The soleplate is completely clean
    • The steam valve is not activated
    • The fabric is known to tolerate direct heat safely

    Certain specialty fabrics still require caution, including:

    • Silk knits
    • Sueded silks
    • Embossed or textured silk designs

    These materials may be more vulnerable to marking or texture distortion.

    Wool Fabrics Require Lower Heat

    Wool is significantly more heat sensitive than cotton or linen. Excessive heat can flatten the yarn structure and create unwanted shine across the fabric surface. In severe cases, scorching may occur.

    Both worsted wools and wool knits should typically be finished using:

    • Steam presses rather than hot-head presses
    • Moderate heat settings
    • Controlled moisture and pressure

    When using a steam iron on wool garments, keeping the Teflon shoe attached helps diffuse direct heat and reduce the risk of shine or scorching.

    Careful handling is especially important on:

    • Dark wool garments
    • Fine worsteds
    • Tailored jackets and trousers
    • Wool blends with delicate finishes

    Thermoplastic Synthetic Fabrics

    Synthetic thermoplastic fibers are among the most vulnerable fabrics during pressing. Excessive heat can cause these materials to:

    • Melt
    • Fuse
    • Glaze
    • Shrink
    • Distort permanently

    Common thermoplastic fibers include:

    • Polyester
    • Acetate
    • Triacetate
    • Acrylic
    • Nylon
    • Polyurethane
    • Spandex

    These fabrics should always be pressed according to the garment care label instructions. Even brief exposure to excessive heat can create irreversible damage.

    Extra caution should be used around:

    • Decorative trims
    • Pleats
    • Bonded fabrics
    • Stretch panels
    • Synthetic linings

    Blended Fabrics Present Unique Challenges

    Blended fabrics can be particularly difficult because they combine fibers with different heat tolerances. A garment may contain:

    • Natural fibers
    • Synthetic fibers
    • Thermoplastic fibers
    • Stretch materials

    Because of this, pressing temperatures must be selected carefully to accommodate the most heat-sensitive component in the blend.

    For blended garments:

    • Always review the care label
    • Test questionable fabrics in an inconspicuous area
    • Use lower temperatures when uncertain
    • Increase heat gradually if needed

    Assuming all blended fabrics behave like cotton or wool can lead to preventable damage.

    Best Practices for Preventing Heat Damage

    To reduce pressing-related garment damage:

    • Follow manufacturer care label instructions
    • Use the correct press or iron for the fabric type
    • Keep Teflon shoes clean and properly attached when required
    • Avoid excessive dwell time on sensitive fabrics
    • Test unfamiliar fabrics carefully
    • Train finishing staff on fiber identification and heat sensitivity

    A strong understanding of fabric behavior during pressing not only protects garments but also reinforces professionalism and customer trust.

    Proper finishing is not simply about appearance. It is about preserving the integrity of the garment while delivering the quality customers expect.


  • 26 May 2026 8:34 PM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)

    The Notes That Prevent Rework, Reduce Claims, and Protect Production During Busy Weeks

    Busy weeks in a dry-cleaning operation are rarely ruined by lack of effort.

    Most teams are already working hard.

    The real problem is that critical information often fails to move through the operation clearly and consistently. When that happens, employees are forced to stop, interpret, guess, or redo work that could have been prevented earlier in the process.

    That is where operational visibility becomes one of the most important systems inside a dry-cleaning business.

    Operational visibility is not just software. It is not another dashboard or report.

    It is the discipline of making sure the right information follows the garment from intake to spotting, finishing, assembly, route delivery, and customer pickup.

    When visibility breaks down, the entire operation slows down.

    What Rework Actually Looks Like in a Dry-Cleaning Plant

    Rework rarely starts with a catastrophic mistake.

    Most of the time, it starts with missing or incomplete intake information.

    Examples include:

    • a stain concern that was never documented
    • missing notes about customer expectations
    • no photo showing pre-existing damage
    • no warning about delicate trims or unstable dyes
    • production staff not knowing what was already discussed with the customer
    • route drivers lacking enough information to answer callbacks confidently

    The result is operational guessing.

    The spotter is guessing what the customer originally noticed.

    The presser is guessing whether a shine mark was already present before finishing.

    The CSR is guessing why the order is delayed.

    The route driver is guessing how to respond to a frustrated customer.

    The owner is guessing which breakdown is happening repeatedly because the operation lacks visibility into where errors are originating.

    This is why many dry cleaners feel busy all day but still struggle with:

    • repeated callbacks
    • preventable claims
    • inconsistent quality
    • production bottlenecks
    • employee frustration
    • customer communication breakdowns

    The issue is often not effort.

    The issue is missing operational structure.

    Why Operational Visibility Matters in Dry Cleaning

    In garment care, information matters just as much as cleaning quality.

    Every garment carries operational risk:

    • stain risk
    • dye instability
    • heat sensitivity
    • trim damage risk
    • customer expectation risk
    • timeline pressure
    • alteration confusion
    • route handling concerns

    Without visibility, every department works from partial information.

    That creates inconsistent decisions throughout the plant.

    Strong operational visibility creates:

    • faster production decisions
    • fewer stop-and-ask interruptions
    • better communication between departments
    • improved claim prevention
    • reduced rework
    • more consistent customer experiences
    • lower operational stress during peak volume

    Visibility is what allows speed and consistency to exist together.

    Without visibility, speed creates mistakes.

    With visibility, speed creates operational control.

    The Most Common Intake Categories That Create Rework

    Most cleaners already know which garment categories generate the highest number of callbacks, claims, or internal production questions.

    Common examples include:

    White Shirts

    Issues often include:

    • collar and cuff expectations
    • yellowing
    • deodorant buildup
    • starch preferences
    • missing button concerns

    Light Dresses and Formalwear

    Risk areas include:

    • makeup stains
    • perspiration
    • delicate fabrics
    • hidden discoloration
    • timeline pressure for events

    Beaded Garments

    Operational concerns include:

    • loose embellishments
    • heat sensitivity
    • trim deterioration
    • manufacturer construction quality
    • bead loss during processing

    Bright or Unstable Dyes

    Potential problems include:

    • color migration
    • bleeding
    • texture changes
    • moisture sensitivity
    • customer expectation management

    Wedding Garments

    High-risk areas include:

    • emotional customer expectations
    • invisible stains
    • delicate trims
    • long train handling
    • preservation discussions

    Each of these categories requires stronger intake visibility because the downstream production risk is higher.

    One Practical Operational Step This Week

    Instead of trying to fix the entire operation at once, start with one intake category that consistently creates problems.

    Then define the three notes that must ALWAYS be captured at intake.

    Think of this as your operational “ALWAYS.”

    Not optional.

    Not when there is extra time.

    Always.

    The Three Notes That Prevent Production Guessing

    1. What the Customer Is Worried About

    This captures the customer’s actual concern before assumptions begin.

    Examples:

    • “Needs for wedding Saturday”
    • “Customer worried about beadwork”
    • “Stain on front not removed last time”
    • “Odor under arms”
    • “Do not over-press collar”

    This note protects communication.

    2. What Staff Can Already See

    This documents the garment’s visible condition before processing begins.

    Examples:

    • loose hem
    • broken beadwork
    • shine marks
    • worn fabric
    • discoloration
    • missing buttons
    • seam stress
    • perspiration staining

    This note protects visibility across departments.

    Photos should be taken whenever:

    • pre-existing damage exists
    • embellishments are present
    • claim risk is elevated
    • discoloration is visible
    • customer concern may later become disputed

    This protects both the cleaner and the customer relationship.

    3. What Limitations Were Discussed Before Processing

    This is one of the most overlooked operational protections in garment care.

    Examples:

    • stain may not remove completely
    • dye stability concern reviewed
    • beadwork may be delicate
    • heat sensitivity discussed
    • timeline limitations explained
    • previous damage acknowledged

    This note protects expectation management.

    Many customer conflicts happen because limitations were never clearly documented before work began.

    Why Photos Matter More Than Ever

    Photos are no longer optional operational tools.

    They are part of modern intake visibility.

    A simple intake photo can:

    • prevent claims
    • reduce disagreements
    • support staff communication
    • improve consistency
    • document pre-existing conditions
    • help route staff communicate confidently
    • reduce owner involvement in preventable issues

    Photos create operational clarity that memory alone cannot provide.

    Operational Visibility Is Really About Reducing Guessing

    Every time an employee has to guess:

    • production slows down
    • inconsistency increases
    • stress increases
    • mistakes become more likely

    Operational visibility reduces guessing.

    That is why structured intake systems are becoming increasingly important in modern dry-cleaning operations.

    The goal is not to create more paperwork.

    The goal is to create fewer surprises.

    A Better Operational Standard for Busy Weeks

    Most cleaners already have habits that experienced employees follow naturally.

    The problem is that those habits often live only in someone’s head.

    Operational visibility turns tribal knowledge into a repeatable system the entire team can follow consistently.

    That consistency matters most during:

    • prom season
    • wedding season
    • seasonal storage transitions
    • holiday rush periods
    • staffing shortages
    • high-volume weeks

    The stronger the visibility, the calmer the operation becomes under pressure.

    Final Thought

    Busy weeks will always create pressure.

    But pressure alone does not create operational chaos.

    Missing visibility does.

    When information follows the garment correctly:

    • decisions become faster
    • communication becomes clearer
    • rework decreases
    • claims decrease
    • employees feel more confident
    • customers receive a more consistent experience

    Speed without visibility creates rework.

    Speed with visibility protects the week.


  • 20 May 2026 6:00 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)

    Recurring services are becoming more common in garment care.

    Many dry cleaners now offer recurring pickup and delivery, wash-and-fold subscriptions, storage programs, membership-style services, route plans, or automatic billing for regular customers. As these programs become more common, the Federal Trade Commission’s ongoing focus on recurring charges and subscription practices is becoming more relevant to the industry.

    The FTC has continued reviewing what it calls “negative option” marketing practices. Negative option programs generally include subscriptions, automatic renewals, continuity plans, and free trials where a customer’s silence or failure to cancel can result in ongoing charges.

    In 2024, the FTC announced a final “Click-to-Cancel” rule intended to make it easier for consumers to cancel recurring subscriptions and memberships. The rule focused on disclosure requirements, informed consent, and making cancellation processes easier to complete.

    However, the rule was later vacated by a federal appeals court in 2025 on procedural grounds. Even so, the FTC restarted rulemaking activity in 2026 and continues prioritizing recurring billing and subscription enforcement under existing consumer protection laws, including ROSCA and Section 5 of the FTC Act.

    For dry cleaners, the operational lesson is simple:

    If a customer is being charged automatically, the terms should be clear before they agree.

    Customers should understand:

    • what they are signing up for
    • how often they will be charged
    • whether the service renews automatically
    • how to cancel the service
    • whether there are recurring charges after a trial or promotional period

    The cleaner should also be able to show that the customer agreed to the recurring billing arrangement.

    This is not only a compliance issue. It is a customer trust issue.

    As route delivery, recurring garment care programs, and membership-style services continue expanding across the industry, transparency becomes increasingly important. Customers who do not understand recurring charges are more likely to dispute payments, cancel services, leave negative reviews, or lose trust in the business relationship.

    The practical step now is simple:

    Review recurring billing, membership, route plan, and storage program language before problems occur. Make sure:

    • customer consent is documented
    • billing terms are clearly explained
    • cancellation instructions are easy to understand
    • recurring charges are not hidden in fine print
    • employees understand how the programs work

    This is not about eliminating recurring customer programs.

    It is about making recurring services transparent, easy to manage, and clearly communicated to the customer.

    Dry cleaners that build trust through clear communication and operational consistency will be in a stronger position as subscription and recurring-service models continue growing across the industry.

    Sources


  • 13 May 2026 6:30 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)

    The EPA’s PCE rule remains one of the most significant long-term regulatory issues facing the dry-cleaning industry.

    PCE, also known as perc or perchloroethylene, has long been used in dry cleaning. In December 2024, EPA issued a final rule regulating PCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).

    In March 2026, EPA proposed extending certain compliance dates related to parts of the Workplace Chemical Protection Program.

    The proposed extended dates are:

    • Initial monitoring: June 21, 2027
    • Meet the ECEL, establish a regulated area, provide required respiratory PPE, and establish a respiratory PPE program: September 20, 2027
    • Establish and implement an exposure control plan: December 20, 2027

    Important Clarification for Cleaners

    EPA states that the current deadlines remain effective until they are officially changed through the rulemaking process.

    That means cleaners should not assume the extension is final until EPA formally completes the process.

    For many cleaners, the challenge is not just understanding the dates. The larger issue is understanding how the rule affects equipment planning, future investment decisions, compliance procedures, and long-term operational strategy.

    EPA also states that the proposed timeline adjustment does not change the agency’s underlying determination that PCE presents unreasonable risk. The agency says it is working to revise portions of the rule so they are practical and implementable while still maintaining health and environmental protections.

    The Larger Industry Issue

    For dry cleaners, the larger issue has not gone away.

    EPA’s PCE rule still includes a long-term phaseout of PCE use in dry cleaning. EPA describes this as a 10-year phaseout. The rule also restricts the use of PCE in newly acquired dry-cleaning machines after the applicable deadline.

    This means cleaners should continue paying attention to:

    • Equipment planning
    • Compliance documentation
    • Future operational costs
    • Alternative cleaning technologies
    • Long-term business strategy

    What Members Should Do Now

    Dry cleaners should:

    • Identify whether their plant still uses PCE
    • Know what type of machine they operate
    • Review EPA’s dry-cleaning compliance materials
    • Keep records organized
    • Speak with equipment providers, suppliers, or compliance advisors
    • Continue monitoring EPA updates carefully before making assumptions about future deadlines

    This is not a reason to panic.

    It is a reason to begin planning before decisions become urgent.

    The cleaners who will be in the strongest position are the ones who understand their equipment, know their obligations, and prepare before deadlines become operational emergencies.

    Sources:


  • 13 May 2026 4:30 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    Heat exposure is becoming a larger workplace safety issue across the country, and dry cleaners should be paying attention.

    OSHA has been working on a proposed rule called Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. The rule is not final yet, but it is important because it includes both outdoor and indoor workplaces.

    That matters for dry cleaners.

    Even though dry cleaning is not usually viewed as an outdoor heat-risk industry, many plants experience significant indoor heat exposure. Boilers, presses, finishing equipment, spotting areas, poor ventilation, summer temperatures, and production pace can all contribute to heat stress inside the workplace.

    During summer production periods, some plants can experience sustained high temperatures around presses, boilers, and finishing areas for hours at a time.

    According to OSHA, the public hearing on the proposed heat rule was held from June 16 through July 2, 2025. The post-hearing comment period ended on October 30, 2025. As of now, OSHA continues to describe the rule as being in the rulemaking process.

    What This Means for Dry Cleaners

    This is not a new final rule that requires immediate compliance today. However, it is a strong reminder that heat exposure should already be part of workplace safety planning.

    Dry cleaners should review:

    • Where heat builds up inside the plant
    • Whether employees have access to water
    • Whether employees can take breaks when needed
    • Whether ventilation systems are functioning properly
    • Whether new employees are trained to recognize heat stress symptoms
    • Whether managers know how to respond if someone becomes dizzy, weak, confused, or overheated

    Heat safety is not just a summer issue. It is an operational issue.

    A plant that is too hot can affect employee health, production speed, finishing quality, concentration, and decision-making. When employees become fatigued or overheated, mistakes increase and production consistency can suffer.

    Practical Next Steps

    The practical step for members is simple:

    Walk through the plant this week and identify the hottest operational areas. Then identify one improvement that can reduce heat stress before summer production pressure increases further.

    Small operational improvements now can help reduce risk later.

    Source: OSHA Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rulemaking


  • 22 Apr 2026 6:30 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    How SmartCare OS Helps Dry Cleaners Move from Reactive to In Control

    SmartCare OS for dry cleaners email header

    Most dry cleaners are not struggling because they lack effort.

    They are working hard. They are showing up every day. They are solving problems as they come. They are doing everything they can to keep their business moving forward.

    But effort alone is not the issue.

    The real issue is structure.

    Across the industry, many operations are running in a disconnected way. Pricing lives in one place. Staff knowledge lives in someone’s head. Processes change depending on who is working that day. Problems are addressed as they appear rather than prevented altogether.

    Over time, this creates inconsistency, inefficiency, and unnecessary pressure on the owner.

    That is not a people problem.

    It is a systems problem.

    The Shift: From Running a Plant to Running a System

    There is a fundamental difference between running a plant and running a system.

    When you are running a plant, the business depends on experience, memory, and constant oversight. Decisions are reactive. Processes are flexible, but often inconsistent. The owner becomes the central point of control.

    When you are running a system, the business operates differently. Structure replaces guesswork. Visibility replaces assumptions. Consistency replaces variability.

    This is the shift SmartCare OS was designed to create.

    Instead of relying on how things have always been done, SmartCare OS introduces a framework that organizes how your business operates, how your team performs, and how decisions are made.

    What SmartCare OS Changes

    SmartCare OS brings structure, visibility, and control back into your operation.

    Rather than managing separate pieces of the business independently, it connects them into one unified system. Daily operations, customer experience, financial performance, staff training, and decision-making are no longer siloed.

    They work together.

    This connection makes the business easier to manage and easier to improve. When you can see how everything fits together, you can identify problems faster, make better decisions, and create more consistent results across your operation.

    What It Actually Does

    SmartCare OS is not just another tool or piece of software. It is a working operating system built specifically for garment care businesses.

    At its core, it provides clear standard operating procedures for your most important tasks. Your team no longer has to rely on memory or interpretation. They know exactly what good execution looks like.

    It also introduces AI-powered support that helps guide decisions in real time. Whether it is identifying profit leaks, improving workflow, or addressing operational challenges, you are no longer guessing your way through decisions.

    Training becomes structured and repeatable, ensuring that every team member operates with the same expectations and standards. At the same time, you gain visibility into your business performance, allowing you to see where money is being made and where it may be slipping through the cracks.

    All of this is supported by workflows designed to reduce mistakes, limit rework, and improve overall efficiency.

    Why This Matters Right Now

    The environment around this industry is changing.

    Costs continue to rise. Customer expectations are higher than ever. Margins are tighter, and there is less room for inefficiency.

    Operating without structure in this environment creates risk. It slows down decision-making, increases inconsistency, and limits your ability to adapt.

    The businesses that will succeed are not simply the ones working harder to keep up.

    They are the ones operating with clarity.

    They know their numbers. Their processes are structured. Their teams are aligned. Their decisions are informed.

    What It Looks Like in Practice

    When SmartCare OS is in place, the difference becomes clear quickly.

    Instead of asking, “What should we do?” your team already knows, “This is how we do it.”

    Instead of reacting to problems after they happen, you begin to see them earlier and address them before they grow into larger issues.

    Instead of guessing, you are working from real information. You have the visibility needed to make confident, informed decisions about your business.

    The operation becomes more predictable, more efficient, and easier to manage.

    The Business Impact

    This shift is not theoretical. It has practical, measurable results.

    Operations become more consistent. Rework decreases. Efficiency improves. Teams perform with more confidence. Customers experience a higher level of service.

    Most importantly, the owner gains control.

    Instead of constantly reacting to the business, you are leading it.

    The Bottom Line

    SmartCare OS helps you move from inconsistent to repeatable, from reactive to proactive, and from busy to productive.

    It is not about adding more work.

    It is about removing friction, creating clarity, and building a business that runs with structure and intention.

    It is about finally running your business as a system.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is SmartCare OS for dry cleaners?

    SmartCare OS is an operating system designed specifically for dry cleaning businesses. It helps connect operations, training, customer experience, financial visibility, and decision-making into one clear system.

    How does SmartCare OS help a dry cleaning business?

    SmartCare OS helps dry cleaners standardize processes, train staff consistently, reduce mistakes, improve decision-making, and gain better visibility into how the business is performing.

    Is SmartCare OS software or a business system?

    It is both a practical operating framework and a system supported by tools. The focus is not just on software, but on helping the business run with more structure and less guesswork.

    Why do dry cleaners need better operational systems?

    Without a clear system, businesses rely too much on memory, individual employees, and reactive decision-making. This creates inconsistency, rework, and owner dependency.

    Can SmartCare OS improve team consistency?

    Yes. One of its main benefits is helping teams follow clear processes, understand expectations, and execute more consistently across daily operations.

    Does SmartCare OS help with profitability?

    Yes. By improving visibility, reducing inefficiency, and helping identify where money is being made or lost, SmartCare OS supports better financial performance.

    How is SmartCare OS different from just working harder?

    Working harder can keep the business going, but it does not fix structural issues. SmartCare OS is designed to improve how the business runs, so results do not depend entirely on constant effort or owner intervention.

    Related Resources

  • 22 Apr 2026 5:00 AM | Dawn Hargrove-Avery (Administrator)


    The Seasonal Mistake Most Cleaners Make

    One of the most overlooked operational shifts in garment care happens every spring.

    The fabrics change, but the pressing habits often do not.

    Winter garments are heavier, more forgiving in structure, and sensitive to excessive heat and pressure. Spring garments are lighter, more delicate in appearance, and require a completely different finishing strategy.

    Failing to adjust leads to inconsistent results, reduced garment quality, and customer dissatisfaction.

    Understanding Fabric Behavior

    Winter Fabrics

    Heavier materials can:

    • Develop shine under excessive heat
    • Become harsh with added sizing
    • Hold structure without additional moisture

    Spring and Summer Fabrics

    Lightweight materials such as:

    • Cotton
    • Linen
    • Ramie
    • Silk

    Require:

    • Increased heat
    • Controlled moisture
    • Strategic pressure
    • Restored sizing

    These fabrics rely on external support to achieve a crisp, finished appearance.

    The Role of Sizing in Fabric Performance

    Sizing is not optional for many spring fabrics. It is essential.

    Vegetable-based fibers depend on sizing agents to:

    • Restore body
    • Create crispness
    • Improve hand feel

    If sizing is not reapplied:

    • Garments appear limp
    • Structure is lost
    • The finish looks incomplete

    Best Application Methods

    Most effective:

    • Injection during laundering or wet cleaning

    Less effective:

    • Spray application before pressing

    Spray sizing is useful but does not penetrate evenly and can create inconsistency.

    Special Considerations for Silk

    Silk behaves differently than other lightweight fabrics.

    • Drycleaning typically preserves existing sizing
    • Wet cleaning can remove sizing completely
    • Incorrect processing leads to a flat, lifeless appearance

    Important rule:

    • Do not use spray sizing on silk
    • Use only a fine mist of water

    Proper moisture control is critical to avoid water rings and surface damage.

    Pressing Techniques That Work

    Hot Head Utility Press Method

    For best results:

    1. Apply bottom steam to relax fibers
    2. Ensure fabric is damp and properly sized
    3. Lower the press head and apply vacuum for 3 to 5 seconds
    4. Release and perform detail finishing with a hand iron

    If fabric is dry:

    • Lightly mist with water
    • Apply spray sizing where appropriate
    • Avoid over-application

    Utility Press Method

    1. Apply bottom steam
    2. Lightly mist fabric
    3. Apply spray sizing if needed
    4. Bring head down and apply top steam
    5. Vacuum briefly before releasing
    6. Use light pressure on seams and button areas
    7. Finish with hand ironing

    Equipment Matters

    Using the correct press setup improves results significantly.

    Recommended:

    • Teflon grid plate for better heat transfer

    Avoid:

    • Fabric-covered grid plates that insulate heat

    This small adjustment can improve consistency across all lightweight garments.

    Avoiding Common Finishing Mistakes

    • Over-saturating garments with water
    • Applying too much pressure on delicate areas
    • Using spray sizing on silk
    • Pressing dry fabrics without proper preparation
    • Treating all fabrics the same regardless of season

    Operational Insight for Owners and Managers

    This is not just a technical adjustment. It is an operational one.

    When pressing teams do not adjust for seasonal fabric changes:

    • Rework increases
    • Finishing time slows down
    • Quality becomes inconsistent
    • Customer perception declines

    Training your team on these seasonal differences creates:

    • Better garment outcomes
    • Faster production
    • Stronger customer confidence

    Final Takeaway

    Spring fabrics require a more deliberate approach.

    Success comes from balancing:

    • Heat
    • Moisture
    • Pressure
    • Sizing

    When done correctly, garments do not just look pressed. They look finished.

    That difference is what customers notice.


<< First  < Prev   1   2   3   4   5   ...   Next >  Last >> 

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 


Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software