Irene’s amazing Professional Development Instructor, Paul Mattson, did some research to help our graduates. Here is the latest information on resources to help massage therapists get through this unpredictable pandemic. Read this to find where to look for help.

Thanks to Paul for his research! Click the link below to download his full document.

(Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Securities Act)* *Passed 3/27/2020

Earnings must have been $75,000 or less if you filed your tax return as an individual ($150,000 or less if married, filing jointly) annually.  Payment is expected to be $1,200 per individual, and $500 per child, per household.

Proof of income is based on your Federal Income Tax return, 2018 or 2019 (if you’ve already filed).

Funds will be deposited electronically to your bank account if this information has already been provided to the IRS, otherwise expect a paper check in the mail.

If you were an employee (had taxes, FICA, and Social Security taken out of your paycheck by the company you worked for) you will likely qualify under the expanded benefits, even if you were part-time.  If this is you, it is recommended you apply for benefits.

Applying online is recommended.  If you are applying for unemployment in Michigan and are having difficulty doing so on online, it is recommended to apply during off-peak hours, between 8PM and 8AM.

Also under the CARES Act, unemployment insurance benefits will temporarily be available to “an eligible self-employed individual”…”an individual who regularly carries on any trade or business” which, under IRS definitions, would cover a large proportion of massage therapists.  Although the language is somewhat vague, the best advice at this time is to apply to see if you qualify.