Small businesses: Business Relief Program depends on your correct information

Broadband providers encourage businesses to log in and update

Help is on the way for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Tennessee Broadband Association wants these companies to be ready.

The State of Tennessee is directing $200 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funds to assist small businesses as they struggle to overcome the loss of income brought about by the health crisis. The state’s broadband providers are encouraging small businesses to update their information with the Department of Revenue to ensure they are ready if they qualify for the aid.

“We are delighted to see Gov. Bill Lee and the legislative leadership take swift action toward helping Tennessee’s struggling small businesses,” says Levoy Knowles, TNBA executive director. “More than 18,000 small businesses depend on Tennessee’s cooperative and independent broadband companies for their connection. Small businesses are an important part of our communities, and they are also vital to our state’s economy through the jobs they provide and the revenue they produce.”

While no action is required by businesses to determine their eligibility, it is important that the state has their correct contact information. “The Tennessee Department of Revenue will identify those who qualify, and relief funds will be sent by check or direct deposit,” says Knowles. “Small-business owners should log into their accounts with the revenue department and check all their contact information to make sure it’s up to date. This will avoid delays in payments.”

Businesses can visit tntap.tn.gov/eservices to review the information on file for them.

The state will provide more guidance, including the program’s timeline, on the Department of Revenue’s website at www.tn.gov/revenue.html.

“This is another example of just how important it is for all Tennesseans to have access to reliable broadband,” says Knowles. “More than a matter of communication, broadband is the key to accessing government services and staying up to date on information that impacts small businesses across our state. That’s why our member companies are investing millions of dollars to build broadband networks into communities, small towns, and some of the most rural parts of Tennessee. More than ever, our work is vital to helping Tennessee rebound.”

To learn more about the TNBA’s work to support the economy, visit tennesseebroadband.com/rebound.