COVID-19 Information and Response

These are strange and unprecedented times. We understand our member’s concerns and are looking for ways to support our business community. We’ll be updating our website at masonchamber.com/covid-19 with resources as they become available. In the meantime, here are some informational resources as well as current closures and altered schedules.

News and Information
COVID-19 State & Federal Business Resources Conference Call hosted by Congressman Derek Kilmer is on Wednesday, March 18 at 10:30 AM via Zoom. Experts will discuss the new WA Commerce and SBA resources available to support small businesses. You can also call in by dialing (669) 900-6833 and enter Webinar ID 910 757 735.

Mason Health has launched a COVID-19 information page on their website. They remind patients to utilize virtual care services when possible and to call before visiting a clinic, urgent care center, or emergency room. Learn more.

Business Resources

SBA is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19.

WA Employment Security Department can provide support in the form of unemployment benefits, including Shared Work, Partial Unemployment, and Standby. Paid Family and Medical Leave can provide benefits for workers who need tot take time off due to a serious health condition or to care for a family member with a serious health condition. If COVID-19 disrupts a business and causes a mass layoff or closure, Rapid Response services and funding may be available.

WA Department of Revenue announced it will work with businesses that cannot file or pay their taxes on time due to the COVID-19 outbreak, including filing extension for excise tax returns and a late payment penalty waiver request.Businesses can request an extension or penalty waiver by sending a secure email in their My DOR account or by calling (360) 705-6705.

WA State Insurance Commissioner can help answer questions about insurance coverage for damages related to COVID-19. To be covered for against business losses due to a communicable disease, you would need to have purchased an additional endorsement to your policy; contact your agent/company directly.

WA Department of Commerce’s Export Assistance Team can help identify alternative markets and provide STEP vouchers to defray some costs.
WA LNI has issued a hazard alert to provide guidance to employers to help keep workers safe during the COVID-19 outbreak. Wondering about Paid Sick Leave and COVID-19? Check out these FAQ. Additional resources are listed online.

WA Governor Jay Inslee’s office has published a COVID-19 resource list for impacted businesses and workers; check often for updates.Remember to let your customers know if you’ve made changes to your daily operations.

Update your information for free with Google My Business.
Need to cancel a contract? Financial Poise Weekly discusses the legal concept of “force majeure” as it relates to the current pandemic.

Last updated: March 16, 2020, at 5:49 PM.