Insights + Resources

5 Stimulus Package Highlights

Jan 6, 2021

After a bit of political posturing on stimulus details in December, the $900 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (2021 CAA) was signed into law by President Trump as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact employers and employees.

Here’s a quick recap of five key highlights providing stimulus to those that need it:

Stimulus Checks:

The new law authorized a second round of $600 stimulus checks for people with income that meets the criteria. The checks start to phase out for individuals who earned at least $75,000 in 2019 and $150,000 for joint filers.1

Unemployment Benefits:

The law provides up to $300 per week in enhanced benefits through March 2021. The benefits extend to self-employed individuals and gig workers.2

Student Loan Repayment:

The 2021 CAA extends the provision that allows employers to repay up to $5,250 annually towards an employee’s student loan payments. The payments are tax-free to the employee.3

Small Businesses:

The 50% limit on the deduction for business meals has been lifted. Business meal expenses after December 31, 2020, and before January 1, 2023, may now be fully deductible. Please consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional for more specific information regarding this provision.4

PPP Loans:

The new law contains $284 billion in relief for a second round of Payment Protection Program loan funding. Businesses with 300 or fewer employees may be eligible for a second loan. “Second-draw” loans are available through March 31, 2021.5

As 2021 gets underway, expect some additional guidance from regulators on 2021 CAA. Our office will keep an eye out for updates and pass information as it becomes available.

For more insights and resources, be sure to sign up for our Weekly Market Commentary. Follow our YouTube channel where we regularly post our Epic Market Minute videos. Follow us on LinkedIn, or like us on Facebook. And as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a dedicated service professional at Epic Capital.

More Insights

Market Update – Volatility Likely to Bring Opportunities as Trade Uncertainty Continues
Jun 4, 2025

As June begins, markets continue to navigate a complex landscape shaped by trade policy shifts, an uncertain economic and earnings outlook, and bond market headwinds. Several key developments in recent weeks may have implications for markets:

Market Update – Tariffs Bring April Showers
Apr 4, 2025

April showers came a month early as stocks fell in March. Tariffs were the primary cause of the market jitters, although that uncertainty became too much for markets to shrug off once economic data started to weaken.

Six Keys to Investing
Apr 2, 2025

A successful investor maximizes gain and minimizes loss. Though there can be no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal, here are six basic principles that may help you invest more successfully.

Organizing Your Finances When Your Spouse Has Passed
Mar 31, 2025

Losing a spouse is a stressful transition. And the added pressure of having to settle the estate and organize finances can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make dealing with these matters less difficult.

Retirement and Adult Children
Mar 28, 2025

Families are one of the great joys in life, and part of the love you show to your family is making sure that their basic needs are met. While that’s only to be expected from birth through the high school years, many households are helping their adult children well into their twenties and beyond at … Continue reading “Retirement and Adult Children”

Insights + Resources >