Latest News https://www.trcri.org/news/default.asp Sat, 6 Jun 2026 06:30:23 GMT Fri, 1 May 2026 13:42:00 GMT Copyright © 2026 Resource Center for Religious Institutes CLINIC - Parish Toolkit Supporting Immigrants in a Time of Need https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=726449 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=726449 CLINIC’s new toolkit provides immediate steps that parishes and faith-based organizations can take to promote the safety and security of their members and to accompany and support immigrants who are detained or threatened by deportation. It includes:

  • Essential Know Your Rights information for immigrants.
  • Emergency preparedness planning resources.
  • Accompaniment and educational resources for staff and volunteers.

Many people of faith and conscience are asking how they can help immigrants in this crisis. This resource is aimed at Catholic audiences but is relevant for other communities of faith as well.

Please find the toolkit here: https://www.cliniclegal.org/resources/catholic-social-teaching/parish-toolkit-supporting-immigrants-time-need

]]> Fri, 1 May 2026 14:42:00 GMT STEWARDSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES 2026 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=725910 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=725910

To view full registration information: Click Here

]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:33:00 GMT Avila Institute - New Program Available https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=725298 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=725298 Geriatric Certificate Program.  Congregations have an opportunity to take advantage of the scholarships that the Conrad Hilton Foundation is funding. 

View the full information here: Flyer

]]> Mon, 13 Apr 2026 21:32:00 GMT NRRO - Engaging Aging https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=724584 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=724584 We are pleased to share with you the NRRO Spring issue of Engaging Aging. This year, rather than featuring perspectives and experiences of individual authors and congregations, NRRO has  invited four national organizations to share from their respective vantage points on religious life nationwide. RCRI is featured in this first issue.  

To view the full article: Click Here

]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:30:00 GMT 2025 Group Ruling Available Now https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=682936 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=682936 The IRS released the 2025 USCCB Group Ruling Determination Letter and Memo.

To view them: CLICK HERE

]]> Wed, 8 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT DHS Issues Alien Registration Requirements for Noncitizens Effective April 11, 2025 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=698619 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=698619
In order to formalize this program, USCIS issued an interim final rule (IFR) on March 12, 2025. The program begins effective April 11, 2025.

USCIS is requiring that all aliens 14 years of age or older who were not fingerprinted or registered when applying for a U.S. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, must apply for registration and fingerprinting. Parents will be responsible to schedule their children’s registration and fingerprinting. 

In addition, DHS is requiring that all noncitizens who move update their address with USCIS within 30 days of the move. Failure to register or update address information could render someone deportable.

Anyone who has applied for, and received, a benefit (i.e. visa or other status) from DHS, USCIS or the Department of State (DOS) and is over 14 years of age is already considered registered. 

For instance, USCIS is considering the following individuals as already registered:

• Lawful permanent residents;
• Aliens paroled into the United States under INA 212(d)(5), even if the period of parole has expired;
• Aliens admitted to the United States as nonimmigrants who were issued Form I-94 or I-94W (paper or electronic), even if the period of admission has expired;
• All aliens present in the United States who were issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas prior to arrival;
• Aliens whom DHS has placed into removal proceedings;
• Aliens issued an employment authorization document;
• Aliens who have applied for lawful permanent residence using Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700, even if the applications were denied; and,
• Aliens issued Border Crossing Cards.

The following individuals must apply for registration:

• All aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a visa to enter the United States and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer. They must apply before the expiration of those 30 days.
• The parents and legal guardians of aliens less than 14 years of age who have not been registered and remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, prior to the expiration of those 30 days.
• Any alien, whether previously registered or not, who turns 14 years old in the United States, within 30 days after their 14th birthday.

Once a noncitizen has been registered, DHS will issue evidence of registration. Noncitizens over the age of 18 must carry and keep this evidence of registration in their possession at all times.

For the most part, the enforcement of this law should not impact most noncitizen employees of religious institutes and sponsored ministries. However, these requirements may impact on the underage children of such employees who are not US Citizens and who may not be considered registered. Noncitizen employees should keep a copy of their I-94 in their person at all times.

In addition, in the IFR, DHS makes clear that DHS will prosecute cases of noncitizens who fail to update their addresses within 30 days of moving. Under 8 USC 1227(a)(3)(A-B), noncitizens who fail to update their addresses or register are subject to deportation. As a result, if a religious institute or sponsored ministry has noncitizen employees that have moved addresses, ascertain that an AR11 is submitted to update the address on file with USCIS. This requirement will exist until the person in question becomes a citizen.

Failure to comply with the requirements of the IFR will be treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority for deportation.

Alien Registration Form and Evidence of Registration, RIN 1615-AC96, 90 FR 90 FR 11793 (Mar. 12, 2025). Click here.
]]> Mon, 14 Apr 2025 18:52:00 GMT STANDARD MILEAGE RATES FOR 2025 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=690395 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=690395 On December 19, 2024, the Internal Revenue Service announced that the optional standard mileage rate (click here) for automobiles driven for business will increase by 3 cents in 2025, while the mileage rates for vehicles used for other purposes will remain unchanged from 2024.

Optional standard milage rates are used to calculate the deductible costs of operating vehicles for business, charitable and medical purposes, as well as for active-duty members of the Armed Forces who are moving (click here).

Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car, van, pickup or panel truck will be: · 70 cents per mile driven for business use (click here), up 3 cents from 2024.

· 21 cents per mile driven for medical purposes, the same as in 2024.

· 21 cents per mile driven for moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, unchanged from last year.

· 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations, equal to the rate in 2024.

The rates apply to fully-electric and hybrid automobiles, as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles. See IRS Notice 2025-5 for further information (click here).

]]> Mon, 6 Jan 2025 17:53:00 GMT STEWARDSHIP AND MANAGEMENT OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES 2024 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=666333 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=666333 RCRI WEBINAR SERIES FOR
ADMINISTRATORS AND LEADERSHIP OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES

In 1985, NATRI initiated an annual seminar, Orientation to Management of Religious Institutes, which was continued by RCRI in 2009 following the merger of NATRI and LRCR. The seminar was intended for new treasurers or CFOs, finance personnel and leadership who had oversight responsibilities for the institute’s finances. In 2014 the seminar was discontinued due to changing needs and other factors. 

Ten years later, building on the foundation and purpose of the OMRI seminar, RCRI will present a Webinar Series on topics related to Stewardship and Management of Religious Institutes 2024 to address current issues faced by administrators, fiscal personnel, and canonical leadership of religious institutes.

 

Recordings and Handouts Available Now: Click Here

]]> Fri, 1 Mar 2024 15:06:00 GMT TAX FILING DEADLINE REMINDER AND NAVIGATING THE COVERED PERIOD OF THE PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=516596 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=516596 Reminder: July 15, 2020 IRS Filing Deadline
 
Religious institutes and their sponsored works are reminded that certain forms which may be filed with the IRS are due on July 15, 2020. For religious institutes and sponsored works that operate on a calendar-year basis, this includes the 2019 Form 990 that would have normally been filed on May 15, 2020. The upcoming July 15, 2020 deadline applies to many forms that were originally due May 15, 2020 including:
 
  • Form 990-series annual information returns (Forms 990, 990-EZ, inter alia)
  • Form 990-N, Electronic Notice (e-Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations Not Required to File Form 990 or Form 990-EZ
  • Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return
 
A religious institute or sponsored work that needs additional time to file beyond the July 15, 2020 deadline can request an automatic extension by filing Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time to File an Exempt Organization Return. An organization will be allowed a six-month extension beyond the original due date. For a calendar-year 2019 return, this means the extended deadline would be November 15, 2020. In situations where tax is due, extending the time for filing a return does not extend the time for paying tax.
 
The exclusively religious activities of a religious institute are exempt from filing a Form 990 EZ/N report, as spelled out in the IRS regulations. At the same time, there is no automatic exemption from the Form 990/EZ/N requirement simply because an organization is included in the Group Ruling or listed in the Official Catholic Directory. Organizations should exercise caution if they choose not to file a Form 990/EZ/N because they believe they are not required to do so.  For more information, see USCCB Group Ruling Memorandum dated October 10, 2019, especially number 8 at page 5.
 
http://www.usccb.org/about/general-counsel/upload/2019-GR-Memo-FINAL-2.pdf
 
The IRS urges all organizations to take advantage of the speed and convenience of filing their returns electronically when possible.
 
 
 
Navigating the Covered Period of the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”)
 
As religious institutes are reviewing their application for loan forgiveness under the PPP program of the CARES Act, as well as the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (“Flexibility Act”) of June 5, 2020, numerous questions have been received related to the Covered Period. The Covered Period is the original 8-week period created by the CARES Act, or the 24-week period or December 31, 2020 deadline created by the Flexibility Act.
 
Specifically, questions have been received regarding allowable payroll and non-payroll costs that must be expended within the Covered Period. When are payroll costs considered incurred? When are payroll costs considered paid? When does the Covered Period begin? What is the Alternative Payroll Covered Period? When and how are non-payroll costs (mortgage interest, rent, and utilities) considered incurred or paid, especially those costs which either pre-date or post-date the Covered Period?
 
While too expansive to address here, members are encouraged to contact RCRI with your questions related to navigating the Covered Period of the PPP.
]]> Thu, 9 Jul 2020 20:05:26 GMT COVID-19: The Impact of Isolation and Confinement on Religious Communities https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=516056 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=516056 Currently in the midst of a global pandemic, we are experiencing a scary time in our world's history. And with this pandemic comes serious side effects to consider. Members of many religious communities, who have gone through months of confinement, could potentially experience a significant impact on their cognitive and emotional health.  Do you find that your community is struggling with this concern? Communities are being challenged by this issue.

Free Webinar hosted by Hoffman and featuring Sr. Lynn Levo, CSJ

]]> Tue, 7 Jul 2020 16:38:25 GMT Latest on the TCJA and Qualified Transportation Fringe (QTF) Expenses Inbox https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513899 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513899 RCRI members may recall the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 does not allow deductions for qualified transportation fringe (QTF) expenses and does not allow deductions for certain expenses of transportation (such as parking) and commuting between an employee’s residence and place of employment.

 

At the same time, the TCJA originally provided that the unrelated business taxable income of a tax-exempt organization, such as a religious institute, was increased by the amount of the QTF expense that is nondeductible. However, on December 20, 2019, this provision was repealed as part of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2020. This repeal was retroactive to the original date of enactment by the TCJA, that is, January 1, 2018, as if the tax was never in the original TCJA.

 

On Friday, June 19, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service issued proposed regulations that provide guidance for the deduction of the qualified transportation fringe and commuting expenses. These proposed regulations specifically address the elimination of the deduction for expenses related to QTFs provided to an employee of the taxpayer. The proposed regulations also provide guidance and methodologies to determine the amount of QTF parking expense that is nondeductible.

 

The guidance also includes definitions and special rules to clarify and simplify the calculations underlying the methodologies. For more information about this and other TCJA provisions, visit IRS.gov/taxreform.

 

See also RCRI’s News In Brief from Spring 2020 on page 4 for additional information: Click Here

]]> Mon, 22 Jun 2020 21:00:48 GMT Timely Topic - IS THERE AN ALTERNATIVE? ADDRESSING COVID-19 CONTINUING EMPLOYMENT ISSUES BY RELIGIOU https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513371 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513371 IS THERE AN ALTERNATIVE?
ADDRESSING COVID-19 CONTINUING EMPLOYMENT ISSUES
BY RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES IN A POST PPP-WORLD
 
 
The sudden economic turbulence resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in religious institute and their sponsored works employers facing the prospect of reducing operating costs. This was initially accomplished for some religious institutes through participation in the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”).
 
However, the conclusion of the first 8-week period of the PPP is fast approaching on June 30, 2020. Some religious institutes and their sponsored works are beginning to ask: “What happens on July 1st?” Many religious institutes and their sponsored works are seeking alternatives to possible furloughs or even lay-offs.
 
This Timely Topics session, lasting approximately 30 minutes, will address possible alternatives, such as reductions in pay and hours of work, as well as possible work-share programs. There will also be a brief review of the avenues available for consideration in the FFCRA Act (“Phase 2”) and the CARES Act (“Phase 3”), as well as the new Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act. The associated legal and practical considerations associated with these possible alternatives will also be addressed.
 
This Timely Topics is scheduled for Wednesday, June 24th at 2PM Eastern Time.  
 
Please Click Here to register for the webinar.
 
*This webinar will be recorded and available later for viewing.
]]> Thu, 18 Jun 2020 17:06:10 GMT EEOC UPDATES WORKPLACE FAQ’s CONCERNING RETURNING EMPLOYEES https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513048 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=513048 On June 11, 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) posted an updated and expanded technical assistance publication addressing questions arising under the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Laws related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This technical assistance publication was referenced in RCRI’s “Timely Topic” presentation on June 5, 2020. The current update issued on June 11, 2020 is the seventh iteration since March 2020.
 
 
The publication, “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws,” provides approaches religious institute and sponsored works employers may adopt as they plan for employees returning to the workplace, including providing information to all employees about who to contact with requests for disability accommodation or other flexibilities, and inviting employees to make any requests in advance that the employer will consider on an individualized basis.
 
This information is provided in Q&A G.6.
 
The updates also address requests for accommodation in the employer’s process for workplace screening, as well as frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and age discrimination, pregnancy discrimination, and sex discrimination involving employees with caretaking or family responsibilities.
 
 
Finally, there are new questions about steps employers may take to prevent and address harassment of employees who are or are perceived to be of Chinese or other Asian national origin, including reminding employers that workplace harassment may occur while employees are teleworking.
 
 
In response to inquiries from the public, the EEOC has provided resources on its website related to the pandemic in an employment context. The agency will continue to monitor developments and provide assistance to the public as needed.
 
Please contact RCRI with any additional questions or concerns.
]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2020 04:25:42 GMT PPP Flexibility Act https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=511644 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=511644 JUNE 8, 2020: Members of religious institutes who are currently participating in the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) should be aware of legislation recently signed into law.
 
On June 5, 2020 President Donald Trump signed the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (“PPP Flexibility Act”) into law making several modifications to the Paycheck Protection Program. The bill, H.R. 7010, was passed by the US House of Representatives on May 28, 2020 with a vote of 417-1. The US Senate passed H.R. 7010 unanimously by voice vote on June 3, 2020.
 
The PPP Flexibility Act causes a number of changes to the Paycheck Protection Program including:
 
1.   An extension of the forgiveness from eight weeks to twenty-four weeks, which is optional for existing PPP borrowers. This will also presumably affect the relevant covered period for measuring reductions in employees or salary and wages.
 
2.   A requirement for forgiveness to use 60 percent of the PPP loan monies on permissible payroll costs. Previously, the percentage of payroll costs was 75 percent.
 
3.   The deadline to re-hire employees for an exemption to the forgiveness limitation is extended from June 30, 2020 to December 31, 2020.
 
4.   A five-year loan maturity term for all new PPP loans. Existing loans will remain at two years unless a mutual agreement to extend has been reached by both the borrower and the lender.
 
5.   All recipients of a PPP loan may now take advantage of the CARES Act provision which permits deferred payment of the employer’s share of Social Security taxes due on wages paid through the end of the year.
 
6.   The addition of an exemption for re-hiring employees based on a reduction in the level of business activity due to COVID-19 and governmental response.
 
7.   The addition of an extension of the payment deferral period until loan forgiveness is granted or a loan forgiveness application is not timely filed.
 
Please contact RCRI for additional information and analysis regarding the PPP Flexibility Act and how it could affect religious institutes. Additional guidance is expected from the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) and the Department of the Treasury in the near future.
 
Additional information from the SBA and Department of the Treasury regarding the PPP Flexibility Act will be shared by RCRI once it is received. 
]]> Mon, 8 Jun 2020 20:23:37 GMT Treasury, IRS issue final regulations providing relief for certain tax-exempt organizations https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=509805 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=509805 Treasury, IRS issue final regulations providing relief for certain tax-exempt organizations

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service today issued final regulations clarifying the reporting requirements generally applicable to tax-exempt organizations.

The final regulations reflect statutory amendments and certain grants of reporting relief announced by the Treasury Department and the IRS in prior guidance to help many tax-exempt organizations generally find the reporting requirements in one place.

 

To view the article: Click Here

]]> Wed, 27 May 2020 22:23:32 GMT Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=508459 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=508459 On May 15, 2020, the Small Business Association (“SBA”) issued its application and instructions for loan forgiveness under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”).
 
The borrower loan forgiveness application form, SBA Form 3508, “Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application,” is found at:
 
Click Here
 
The application has four components: (1) PPP Loan Forgiveness Calculation Form; (2) PPP Schedule A; (3) PPP Schedule A Worksheet; and (4) (optional) PPP Borrower Demographic Information Form. Borrowers are required to submit items (1) and (2) to their lender.
 
Members of RCRI are urged to consult the analysis of the loan forgiveness application entitled Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application: Information for US Religious Institutes and their Sponsored Works found in the members’ section of the RCRI website. Click Here
 
Both members and non-members of RCRI are invited and encouraged to contact RCRI with any questions, especially in regards to the prepared analysis.
]]> Wed, 20 May 2020 17:24:54 GMT LATEST DEVELOPMENTS ON PPP LOAN SAFE HARBOR RELIEF AND GUIDANCE ON GOOD-FAITH CERTIFICATION https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=507320 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=507320 MAY 13, 2020 – Earlier today, the US Treasury and Small Business Administration (“SBA”) updated its FAQ’s on the Payroll Protection Program (“PPP”) with the addition of FAQ #46.
 
FAQ #46 states: “"[a]ny borrower that, together with its affiliates, received PPP loans with an original principal amount of less than $2 million will be deemed to have made the required certification concerning the necessity of the loan request in good faith."
 
This safe harbor should provide religious institutes comfort if they borrowed less than $2 million dollars through the PPP.
 
Further, the FAQ further delineates that for borrowers who received PPP loans greater than $2 million dollars, “i]f SBA determines in the course of its review that a borrower lacked an adequate basis for the required certification concerning the necessity of the loan request, SBA will seek repayment of the outstanding PPP loan balance and will inform the lender that the borrower is not eligible for loan forgiveness. If the borrower repays the loan after receiving notification from SBA, SBA will not pursue administrative enforcement or referrals to other agencies based on its determination with respect to the certification concerning necessity of the loan request. SBA’s determination concerning the certification regarding the necessity of the loan request will not affect SBA’s loan guarantee."
 
This is a noteworthy enhancement for borrowers vis-a-vis the US Treasury’s and SBA’s earlier statements regarding eligibility. 
 
The link and full text of FAQ #46 may be found by Clicking Here
]]> Thu, 14 May 2020 15:54:36 GMT Deposit of Economic Stimulus Checks https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506896 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506896  
Several religious institutes have had a problem in depositing the economic stimulus checks. The issue is getting their bank to accept U.S. Treasury Department checks payable to an individual who is not a signer on the account (i.e. a third-party check).
 
Talk with the bank branch manager. You can make all members of the community co-owners by corporate resolution, then have the branch manager approve the deposits. They would not have signature authority over the checking or savings account, but would be listed with name, date of birth and Social Security number on the account.
 
The “Johnson Letter” on the RCRI web site refers to the deposit of Social Security pensions into a communal account. The economic stimulus checks might be considered in a similar manner. The letter may be a way to help convince the branch manager to accept the checks for deposit. They need to understand that a religious community holds all goods in common and the members take a vow of poverty. A copy of the LRCR memorandum and letter is available by Clicking Here.
 
ADDENDUM (5/12/2020) : The Johnson Letter is also codified in the POMS at GN 02402.050 Account Titles. Click Here
 
Reference to this section in the POMS might also be considered when working with your financial institution if this question should arise. It may be worthwhile to first share a copy of GN 02402.050 in POMS with your financial institution prior to following the "co-owners route" as reference to this title in POMS may resolve the question outright. Note especially Section B (2)(a), including the introductory paragraph, when sharing this title in POMS with your financial institution. Have a copy of GN 02404.050 from POMS with you when you visit your financial institution to deposit the stimulus checks.
 
The list of “co-owners” should be updated regularly and sent to a bank officer. SS checks or direct deposits would be routinely received and credited.
 
It is important that each individual endorse the check if possible. A restrictive endorsement would be best, such as “Pay to the order of (legal name, e.g.) Sisters of …, for deposit only, /x/ signed …”. If the person is not able to sign, hopefully someone in leadership has power of attorney to act for that person.
 
(Recently a member of a community got the economic stimulus check and endorsed it “Pay to the Order of Jesuit Community of …” and signed it. The bank was at first reluctant to accept it for deposit. The teller was told that he was a member of the community and an officer. The teller contacted a higher-up and got the deposit approved.)
 
Appeal to a higher-up at the bank if the local manager does not agree to accept the checks.
 
Also, if an economic stimulus check is received for an individual who is deceased, there is a box to check on the U.S. Treasury Department envelope “Deceased”. Then cover the address with a label and put it in the mail. The Treasury Department will receive the uncashed check and void it.
 
 
See More Information from I.R.S. below about Economic Stimulus Payments:
 
Act by Wednesday for chance to get quicker Economic Impact Payment; timeline for payments continues to accelerate
 
WASHINGTON – With a variety of steps underway to speed Economic Impact Payments, the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service urged people to use Get My Payment by noon Wednesday, May 13, for a chance to get a quicker delivery.
 
The IRS, working in partnership with Treasury Department and the Bureau of Fiscal Services (BFS), continues to accelerate work to get Economic Impact Payments to even more people as soon as possible. Approximately 130 million individuals have already received payments worth more than $200 billion in the program’s first four weeks.
 
Starting later this month, the number of paper checks being delivered to taxpayers will sharply increase. For many taxpayers, the last chance to obtain a direct deposit of their Economic Impact Payment rather than receive a paper check is coming soon. People should visit Get My Payment on IRS.gov by noon Wednesday, May 13, to check on their payment status and, when available, provide their direct deposit information.
 
“We’re working hard to get more payments quickly to taxpayers,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “We want people to visit Get My Payment before the noon Wednesday deadline so they can provide their direct deposit information. Time is running out for a chance to get these payments several weeks earlier through direct deposit.”
 
After noon Wednesday, the IRS will begin preparing millions of files to send to BFS for paper checks that will begin arriving through late May and into June. Taxpayers who use Get My Payment before that cut-off can still take advantage of entering direct deposit information.
 
How Get My Payment works
The Get My Payment tool provides eligible taxpayers with a projected Economic Impact Payment deposit date. The information is updated once daily, usually overnight. There is no need to check more than once a day. Taxpayers who did not choose direct deposit on their last tax return can use this tool to input bank account information to receive their payment by direct deposit, expediting receipt.
 
Non-Filers portal remains available
For those not required to file a federal tax return, the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here tool helps them submit basic information to receive an Economic Impact Payment quickly to their bank account. Developed in partnership between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, this tool provides a free and easy option for those who don’t receive Social Security retirement, survivor or disability benefits (SSDI), Railroad Retirement benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and VA Compensation and Pension (C&P) benefits. The Non-filers tool is also available in Spanish.
 
Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for 2019 or 2018 will receive the payments automatically. Automatic payments will also be sent to those receiving Social Security retirement, disability benefits, Railroad Retirement benefits, Veterans Affairs benefits or Supplemental Security Income soon.
 
Watch out for scams related to Economic Impact Payments
The IRS urges taxpayers to be on the lookout for scams related to the Economic Impact Payments. To use the new app or get information, taxpayers should visit IRS.gov. People should watch out for scams using email, phone calls or texts related to the payments. Be careful and cautious: The IRS will not send unsolicited electronic communications asking people to open attachments, visit a website or share personal or financial information.
 
Stay informed with Economic Impact Payment FAQs; Social Media platforms
Taxpayers should check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for more information.
]]> Tue, 12 May 2020 19:32:36 GMT Timely Topic - LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES CONDUCTING BUSINESS MEETINGS REMOTELY https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506461 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506461 LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES
CONDUCTING BUSINESS MEETINGS REMOTELY
 
 
Since the outbreak of the current COVID-19 pandemic, more and more religious institutes and their sponsored works are holding meetings of its civil board of directors as provided by the entity’s corporate by-laws through remote means, such as tele-conferencing or video-conferencing via Zoom, BlueJeans, Skype, FaceTime, GoToMeeting, etc. 
 
But are such meetings, and decisions undertaken at these meetings, in compliance with the corporate by-laws and state statute? This very brief, approximately 20-minute Timely Topics focused toward non-attorneys, will discuss questions leadership of a religious institute should consider when holding meetings of its civil corporate board of directors by remote means.
 
This Timely Topics is scheduled for Friday, May 15 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. 
 
 
Please Click Here to register for the webinar.
 
*This webinar will be recorded and available later for viewing.
]]> Fri, 8 May 2020 22:10:03 GMT SAFE HARBOR EXTENDED AND PPP DOCUMENTATION REMINDERS https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506460 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=506460
Late on May 5, 2020, the Small Business Administration (“SBA”), in consultation with the Department of the Treasury, updated its FAQ’s regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) with the inclusion of FAQ #43 and #44.

RCRI members may recall RCRI’s Timely Topics presentation of May 1, 2020 which included information regarding the May 7, 2020 safe harbor. FAQ #31 reminds borrowers to review carefully the required certification on the Borrower Application Form that “[c]urrent economic uncertainty makes this loan request necessary to support the ongoing operations of the Applicant.” The SBA guidance and regulations provide that, upon a review by a borrower who successfully applied for a PPP loan prior to April 24, 2020 and subsequently repays the loan in full by May 7, 2020 after having conducted such a review in determining the necessity of the loan, will be deemed by SBA to have made the required certification for the loan in good faith.

In the updated May 5, 2020 FAQ’s, the SBA at FAQ #43 extended the repayment date for this safe harbor to May 14, 2020. Borrowers do not need to apply for this extension. This extension will be promptly implemented through a revision to the SBA’s interim final rule providing the safe harbor. SBA intends to provide additional guidance on how it will review the certification prior to May 14, 2020. 

See: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Paycheck-Protection-Program-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf


Documentation

As the May 1, 2020 Timely Topics presentation shared, under the CARES Act, all eligible recipients of a PPP loan must “make a good faith certification: that the “[c]urrent economic uncertainty makes [the] loan request necessary to support the ongoing operations of the Applicant.” As such, the SBA has the opportunity to review a PPP loan, presumably at the time of forgiveness, as to not just the amount and use of a PPP loan received, but also as to its “necessity.” 

FAQ #31 stressed the “necessity” requirement for PPP applicants that are “businesses owned by large companies with adequate sources of liquidity to support the business’s ongoing operations.” Although FAQ #31 used a “public company with substantial market value and access to capital markets” as an example of an entity unlikely to make the required certification in good faith, FAQ #37 expanded the application of FAQ #31 to all borrowers, not necessarily just larger or public businesses. FAQ #39 provide that the SBA will automatically audit all PPP loans worth $2 million dollars or more. 

As RCRI members who have received PPP loans are well aware, the necessary certifications center on the borrower as an “eligible recipient;” the “necessity” of the borrower in receiving the loan; and, the qualified uses of the PPP loan. Please review the May 1, 2020 Timely Topics presentation for further discussion. 

As shared in the Timely Topics May 1, 2020 presentation, documentation is key. Documentation related to fiscal standing; availability of credit; benefactor support; resource questions; local governmental COVID-19 orders impacting the region; remote-working capacities (or lack thereof); and, challenges to current or future funding, as well as streams of income, should be accurately kept. Again, see the Timely Topics presentation for further discussion. 

Religious institutes should carefully review and support through documentation the PPP loan request, and its accompanying certification, so as to be prepared for any possible review by the SBA at the time of anticipated forgiveness. The extended safe harbor of May 14, 2020 provides a borrower to repay the loan in full and prior to the SBA deeming the required certification having been made in good faith as to the loan’s necessity.

Keep in mind it is not necessary to demonstrate likely closure of the religious institute and/or sponsored work’s civil corporation at the time of PPP application, nor does the religious institute and/or the sponsored work need to demonstrate that it had no other means of obtaining credit. Indeed, the US Treasury stated that it was waiving “the usual SBA requirement that [the applicant] try to obtain some or all of the loan funds from other sources.” However, the SBA does reserve the right to review and scrutinize the perceived need for the funding. See the Timely Topics May 1, 2020 presentation for more details. ]]> Thu, 7 May 2020 15:05:49 GMT Your Chapter of Elections Has Been Postponed: Now What? https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=505148 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=505148
Introduction

In the world of a global pandemic, plans fall like children’s toys. Government meetings, national conventions, international seminars – are all suspended until further notice. Even if the meetings were not cancelled, the transportation systems, the venues, the conference planners, the food services – all ceased operations. The world is at a standstill.

Religious communities who planned chapters of affairs and election are among the countless organizations impacted. Having made the decision to postpone a chapter, the major superiors and their councils confront questions that most have never thought they would need make. Included, of course, is the extension of their own terms.

As a facilitator, in conversation with other facilitators, leaders and canonists, I offer a suggested outline of questions to be weighed and options to be considered as councils discern their next best steps.

To view the full document: Click Here]]> Fri, 1 May 2020 18:50:25 GMT PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM AND HEALTH CARE ENHANCEMENT ACT https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=504098 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=504098
The PPP–HCA provides an additional $310 billion for PPP, plus $60 billion more for separate Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs). If religious institutes should decide to apply for an EIDL, they are reminded to note the restrictions vis-à-vis the PPP described in RCRI’s document of April 3, 2020 highlighting applicable parts of the CARES Act. Institutes will note that an EIDL is not subject to forgiveness. 

As a reminder, the PPP, administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), provides an opportunity for a religious institute and/or its sponsored work(s) with fewer than 500 employees and as a non-profit organization to obtain loans, the proceeds of which are intended to cover payroll and certain functioning expenses for an eight-week period during the current pandemic. The objective of the PPP is to assist employers to keep their employees instead of furloughing or dismissing them, while at the same time, continuing their salaries in the middle of the current economic climate that has been created by the circumstances of the pandemic. By following the loan guidelines during the eight-week period, the organization is eligible to apply for loan forgiveness, converting the loan into a nontaxable grant. 

If a religious institute decides to participate in PPP and did not participate in the first round of PPP prior to the exhaustion of funds by April 16, 2020, it is strongly suggested the institute apply as quickly as possible. It is expected the additional funding provided by PPP-HCA will also be quickly exhausted. 

If a religious institute has already submitted a loan application, RCRI is of the understanding that in most cases, there is no need to resubmit the application to the same lender. The lender most likely retained the information. 

However, you may wish to consider confirming this with your original lender as it seems some lenders have announced varying information. This may be accomplished by simply checking your lender’s website. By way of example, the following statements are found on the websites of two different lenders:

Lender A:

If you have already applied for the PPP program with [Lender A], please do not resubmit your application as this could lead to processing delays.

Lender B:

If you submitted an application during the first round of PPP between April 3-15, please watch your email for an important message. 

[Lender B] is currently focusing on those who applied in the first round and have resubmitted an electronic application. We are currently ONLY accepting new applications from customers and NOT accepting new applications from non-customers.

Please understand that in light of the volume of applications, [Lender B] has to reserve the right to change the order in which it prioritizes applications if needed. 

The good news is that we’ve built an automated system; This may help with accuracy and completeness and allow more PPP applications to be reviewed and submitted to the SBA for approval. 

We are assessing the backlog daily to determine if we can start accepting new applications. If we are able to open the application process, we will announce it on our website homepage. 

There is also reporting if an application was submitted prior to March 29, 2020 (the current SBA application form is dated April 2020) and no word has been forthcoming from your lender, it may be necessary to resubmit the application. Contact your lender for further details.

Members are reminded that a borrower is limited to one loan from the PPP. As those who have applied are well aware, the loan is registered under a Taxpayer Identification Number at SBA in order to prevent multiple loans to the same employer. 

The application for the PPP may be found at:

https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Paycheck-Protection-Program-Application-3-30-2020-v3.pdf

A list of lenders approved by the SBA to participate in the PPP is found at:

https://www.sba.gov/paycheckprotection/find

The SBA Interim Rules were updated on April 24, 2020. They may be found at:

https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Interim-Final-Rule-on-Requirements-for-Promissory-Notes-Authorizations-Affiliation-and-Eligibility.pdf


The SBA’s “Frequently Asked Questions” concerning PPP were updated on April 26, 2020. They may be found at:

https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Paycheck-Protection-Program-Frequently-Asked-Questions.pdf
]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2020 15:57:40 GMT IRS, Treasury issue guidance for applying UBTI ‘silo’ rules for tax-exempt organizations by identify https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503587 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503587 IRS, Treasury issue guidance for applying UBTI ‘silo’ rules for tax-exempt organizations by identifying separate trades or businesses

 

 

The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service today issued proposed regulations under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) that provide guidance for tax-exempt organizations that are subject to the unrelated business income tax with more than one unrelated trade or business on how to calculate their unrelated business taxable income (UBTI).

 

The proposed regulations  issued today provide guidance on identifying separate trades or businesses, including investment activities, as well as certain other amounts included in UBTI.

 

Changes under the TCJA require tax-exempt organizations subject to the UBTI tax to compute UBTI, including any NOL deduction, separately for each trade or business (referred to as a “silo”).

 

Under prior law, UBTI was the gross income of all unrelated trades or businesses less the allowed deductions from all unrelated trades or businesses. Starting in tax-year 2018 (tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2017), the loss from one trade or business may not offset the income from another, separate trade or business.

 

Updates on the implementation of the TCJA can be found on the Tax Reform page of IRS.gov.

 

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 18:14:54 GMT NEW FAQS ON SICK LEAVE https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503578 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503578 On Friday afternoon, April 17, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service posted new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding COVID-19-Related Tax Credits for Required Paid Leave by Small and Midsize Businesses – sick and family leave.
 
These FAQs may be of benefit to religious institutes regarding their employees. Go to:
 
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/covid-19-related-tax-credits-for-required-paid-leave-provided-by-small-and-midsize-businesses-faqs 


]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:04:59 GMT APRIL 16 UPDATE: Latest on the PPP and Stimulus Checks https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503576 https://www.trcri.org/news/news.asp?id=503576 APRIL 16 UPDATE: Latest on the PPP and Stimulus Checks
 
RCRI members may wish to be aware of the following:
 
Paycheck Protection Program
 
On April 14, 2020, the SBA released 28 updated FAQ's regarding the Paycheck Protection Program. Questions 26-28 were originally published on April 14, 2020. The FAQ's are available, please Click Here
 
 
The following FAQ's are noteworthy:
  1. QA#7: makes clear that the $100,000 compensation limit per employee applies only to cash compensation and not to retirement or insurance benefits.
  2. QA#14: discussed the time period used to determine the number of employees.
  3. QA#16: the SBA interprets the payroll cost to be gross payroll to employees.
  4. QA#20: the 8-week period begins the day that the PPP loan is disbursed to the borrower. 
 
Economic Impact Payments ("Stimulus Checks")
 
On April 15, 2020, the IRS unveiled the new Get My Payment with features to let taxpayers check on their Economic Impact Payment date and update direct deposit information.
 
With an initial round of more than 80 million Economic Impact Payments starting to hit bank accounts over the weekend and throughout this week, this new tool will help address key common questions. Get My Payment will show the projected date when a deposit has been scheduled, similar to the “Where’s My Refund tool” many taxpayers are already familiar with.
 
Go to www.irs.gov for the Get My Payment tool. See also IR 2020-72 for further information.
 
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/treasury-irs-unveil-online-application-to-help-with-economic-impact-payments
 
 
SSDI recipients need not file for Economic Impact Payment checks
The Internal Revenue Service, working in partnership with the Treasury Department and the Social Security Administration, announced on April 15, 2020 that recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will automatically receive automatic Economic Impact Payments. SSI recipients will receive a $1,200 Economic Impact Payment with no further action needed on their part. The IRS projects the payments for this group will go out no later than early May.
 
See IR 2020-73 for further information.
 
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/supplemental-security-income-recipients-will-receive-automatic-economic-impact-payments-step-follows-work-between-treasury-irs-social-security-administration
 
However, while not applicable to members of religious institutes, it is worth noting that if SSI recipients have qualifying children under age 17, they should not wait for their automatic $1,200 individual payment. Rather, they should visit the Non-Filers: Enter Your Payment Info section of the IRS’s webpage to provide their information. Go to:
www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here 
 
For more information, go to:
https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/
 
Non-Filers Tool
 
Since the initial release of the Non-Filers tool by the IRS, and based on consultations coupled with the lack of immediate guidance from the IRS as to the question, RCRI is cautiously optimistic – at this point - that the use of the Form 1040 on the Non-Filers tool is not so much the generation of an income tax return.
 
Rather, the use of the Form 1040 in this instance seems to be the means the federal government has elected to generate Economic Impact Payments in an expeditious way.
 
RCRI will continue to monitor this question and share any developments.
 
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