The deadline for filing amended returns to claim the ERC for calendar year 2021 quarters is fast approaching. If you have been on the fence regarding filing a refund claim due to the IRS moratorium on processing ERC claims, now is the time to act.
At Tanner, we’ve helped many employers evaluate eligibility for the ERC—money that businesses have reinvested in their people, operations, and growth. If you’re still unsure whether you qualify, you’re not alone. Many businesses have wrongly assumed they don’t meet the criteria, only to find out they’re eligible for significant refunds.
What is the ERC and Why Does it Matter?
The ERC is a refundable payroll tax credit designed to reward businesses that retained employees during the pandemic in the face of government ordered suspension of operations or significant revenue decreases. Eligible companies can still claim up to $21,000 per employee for qualifying wages paid in 2021. The ERC is no longer available for 2020 as the filing deadline for that year was April 15, 2024.
Who Qualifies?
If your business experienced any of the following, you could be eligible:
- A 20% decline in quarterly revenue during 2021 compared to the same calendar quarter in 2019
- Full or partial suspension of operations due to government mandates
- Supply chain disruptions that affected your ability to operate
- A reduction in customer capacity due to pandemic-related restrictions
Many businesses initially overlooked eligibility because they didn’t experience revenue loss or worried about increased IRS scrutiny when the ERC was added to the 2023 Dirty Dozen tax scam list. Others relied upon ERC boutiques who did not file the paperwork, have stopped responding to inquiries, or are no longer filing ERC claims.
Why Act Now?
The statute of limitations deadline to amend payroll tax returns and claim the ERC is just weeks away. After that, any amended returns will not be accepted. Absent legislation retroactively enacting an earlier statute of limitations date, it is expected that the IRS will continue processing amended returns filed on or before April 15, 2025.
Additionally, the IRS has stepped up its scrutiny of ERC claims, making it essential to work with a trusted, experienced tax advisor to ensure compliance. At Tanner, we don’t just calculate your credit—we’ll provide eligibility memorandum and applicable government orders to support your claim under IRS review.
How Tanner Can Help
With a track record of returning $80 million+ to Utah businesses, our team knows how to navigate the ERC process with precision. We’ve helped companies across industries identify eligibility, maximize refunds, and ensure compliance—even those who initially thought they didn’t qualify.
Final Reminder: This is Your Last Chance
If you haven’t explored your eligibility, don’t wait any longer. The window is closing, and once it does, this opportunity is gone for good.
Let’s talk. Our team is ready to help you determine eligibility and submit a compliant claim before the deadline. Contact us now to secure your refund.