Beware! Scam Involving Employee Retention Credit The law office of Ufberg & Associates recently sent out communication regarding a scam surrounding the employee retention credit. Below is the text from Ufberg & Associates. Employee Retention Credit The Employee Retention Credit (ERC) was designed to provide a refundable tax credit for businesses that continued paying employees while shut down during the COVID-19 Pandemic, or for businesses that had a significant decline in gross receipts during the eligibility periods. However, with this resource came the opportunity for misuse and abuse. Schemes and Scams The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has learned that third party promoters have developed schemes to entice businesses to apply for the ERC, who may otherwise not be eligible for the ERC. Third party promoters are continuing to engage in marketing campaigns designed to have businesses enlish their services to apply for ERC and then charging businesses 10%, 20%, 30% for more of the amount of the ERC for their services. The IRS reacted to these developments by adding the ERC to its “Dirty Dozen” list in March of 2023. The IRS’s “Dirty Dozen” list is an annual list generated by the IRS listing potential scams and schemes that put taxpayers and the tax professional community at risk. The list is aimed at helping raise awareness to protect honest taxpayers from potential bad actors. The IRS Commissioner made the following statement on this issue: “The aggressive marketing of these credits is deeply troubling and a major concern of the IRS. Businesses need to think twice before filing a claim for these credits. While the credit has provided a financial lifeline to millions of businesses, there are promoters misleading people and businesses into thinking they can claim these credits. There are very specific guidelines around these pandemic-era credits; they are not available to just anyone. People should remember the IRS is actively auditing and conducting criminal investigations related to these false claims. We urge honest taxpayers not to be caught up in these schemes.” Warning Signs The aggressive marketing from these promoters can come in a variety of forms, such as radio, television, and online advertisements. Additionally, promoters have been sending out fake letters from non-existent groups, such as the “Department of Employee Retention Credit” urging businesses to take immediate action in applying for ERC. The IRS has provided some warning signs of an aggressive ERC marketing that businesses should be wary of. These included: Unsolicited calls or advertisements mentioning an “easy application process.”Statements that the promoter or company can determine ERC eligibility within minutes.Large upfront fees to claim the credit.Fees based on a percentage of the refund amount of the ERC claimed.Aggressive claims from the promoter that a business qualifies for the ERC before any discussion of the group’s tax situation. In reality, the ERC is a complex credit that requires careful review before applying.The IRS also sees aggressive suggestions from marketers urging businesses to submit the claim because there is nothing to lose. In reality, the IRS would expect those improperly receiving the credit to repay the credit — along with the potential assessment of substantial interest and penalties. How to Protect Yourself Work with a Trusted Tax Professional — Employers who believe they may be eligible for the ERC should contact a trusted tax professional and not rely on the advice of any individual or company soliciting these credits.IRS urges employers not to apply for ERC if the employer does not have a reasonable belief that the employer is legitimately qualified for this credit. Lastly, if you wish to seek further information about the ERC, you can find additional information from the IRS by following the link: Employee Retention Credit Resource. Disclaimer: This communication from the law office of Ufberg & Associates provides a general overview of new legal developments. It is not intended to provide legal advice. If you have questions or would like more information about how these developments may affect your businesses, please contact Ufberg & Associates at (570) 341-8800.
Coffee With Your Congressman Matt Cartwright The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce government advocacy and affairs committee wants to share an upcoming opportunity for Chamber members to meet and discuss important issues with Congressman Cartwright. Congressman Cartwright will be at the Abington Memorial VFW Post 7069 on Monday, July 10, from 3:30-5:00 PM. Enjoy coffee and contribute to the discussion with your local community. AddressAbington Memorial VFW Post 7069402 Winola RoadClarks Summit, PA 18411
Marywood Students to Participate in Global Business Plan Competition Five students from Marywood University’s School of Business and Global Innovation have been selected to participate in the X-Culture Global Business Week in Lublin, Poland, from July 12-19, 2023. X-Culture is an international business plan competition in which students compete on teams composed of other students from around the world on real-life projects, set up by companies seeking to enter international markets. Each year more than 10,000 students participate in X-culture from over 400 institutions around the world. The top 150 students are invited to participate in the X-culture international symposium annually. The following Marywood University students have been invited for participation: Michael Romano, Maywood, N.J., a junior business management major; Daniel Gomez, Miami, Fla., a sophomore sports management major; Gabrielle Trosh, Newfoundland, Pa., a junior financial planning in business management major; Joel DeCarli, Archbald, Pa., a junior business management major, and Madison Guelho, Stroudsburg, Pa., a junior business management/health services administration major. Dr. Chris Speicher, their professor on this project and the Executive Director of Marywood’s School of Business and Global Innovation, said, “These students are our rock stars! They stand out in any situation, and they will be wonderful ambassadors for Marywood while in Poland, participating in this symposium and business plan competition.” For more information about Marywood’s School of Business and Global and its programs, go to marywood.edu/academics/business.
All About Function to Host Education Workshop Lori A. Radisnki will be hosting a Menstrual Education Workshop at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Please see flyer for details.
Chamber Affiliate Receives Award for Economic Development Accomplishments in the Region The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce economic development affiliate, Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Building Company (SLIBCO), received the Mid-Sized Community EDO Award from Business Facilities for its economic development accomplishments in northeastern Pennsylvania. Business Facilities is a full-service media brand specializing in the site selection marketplace, and it has been recognized as “the leading source of intelligence on corporate expansion and relocation since 1968,” as stated by the magazine’s website. The award SLIBCO received was given to mid-size economic development organizations whose region’s population is between 100,000–500,000. Outlining The Chamber and SLIBCOs accomplishments: 15 business parks totaling over 3,000 acres. Of the 3,000 acres, less than 1,000 acres are left undeveloped. The organizations developed an internal incentive program for developers within the business parks to work towards the attraction of advanced industries like energy production, advanced manufacturing, and food and beverage production. The latest accomplishment of The Chamber and SLIBCO was a bridged partnership to conserve 250+ acres of land for conservation in Lackawanna County. SLIBCO worked with the Lackawanna Valley Conservancy, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and the PA Game Commission. The conservation organization intends to create multiple outdoor recreational opportunities, including mountain biking trails, hiking trails, and outdoor educational elements. The Chamber and its affiliates are committed to attracting, sustaining, and growing businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania. SLIBCO is one of eight affiliates through The Chamber that seeks to develop the community through access to capital, leadership and professional development, workforce, entrepreneurship, and more. About Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Business Company (SLIBCO)Scranton-Lackawanna Industrial Business Company (SLIBCO), an affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, develops multi-tenant buildings and industrial and office parks in northeastern Pennsylvania. SLIBCO also owns and manages two technology incubator facilities to start-up and expand small businesses. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
The Chamber Hosts Summer Business Card Exchange The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, the region’s premier business organization, hosted its Summer Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, June 28, at High Tines Archery & Outdoors in Dunmore. The 66 attendees enjoyed a unique opportunity to network with Chamber members, a chance to win door prizes, and experience the event business host, High Tines, indoor archery range. High Tines Archery & Outdoors owner Greg Gondella Jr. shared, “Networking is the name of the game for me… I wouldn’t be where I am right now if it weren’t for the connections I made through the years”. Business card exchanges allow Chamber members and partners to network, meet new faces, and expand their professional and personal networks. If you want to join The Chamber’s strong community of leaders, please visit www.scrantonchamber.com or call (570) 342–7711 for more information. Attached photo (from left to right): Kristine Augustine, vice president, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Ryan Buchanan, director of marketing and communications, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Greg Gondella Jr., owner, High Tines Archery & Outdoors; Maria Gondella, owner, High Tines Archery & Outdoors; Molly Morgan, communication intern, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce; Noah Leety, communication intern, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about The Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
Commonwealth of PA Holds Community Meeting to Discuss the Region’s Access to the Internet The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s government affairs and advocacy committee is committed to representing and being a voice for the business community to the local, state, and federal legislators. A priority for The Chamber’s government committee is access to broadband internet across the Wyoming Valley for its residents and businesses. On Tuesday, July 11, at 11 a.m., The PA Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) is holding a community meeting to hear from the general public’s experience with internet access. The community meeting will be at the Lackawanna County Center for Public Safety in Jessup, PA. Sign-up!
Scrantastic Spectacular On Monday, July 3, Lackawanna County will hold the 2023 Scrantastic Spectacular Courthouse Square in Scranton comes alive as Lehigh Valley Hospital Dickson City Presents the Lackawanna County Scrantastic Spectacular! Bring the family and enjoy great foods, games and bounce houses for the kids, local bands on The Scranton Recycling Side Stage, and a LIVE performance from Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Brass and Percussion Members beginning at 8 PM. Then sit back and enjoy the best fireworks display in NEPA sponsored in part by Alleima! NOTE: Fireworks launch location is now at the Linden St. Garage above Catch 21. See the map for the best viewing locations. Information provided by https://www.scrantasticspectacular.com/ This event is sponsored in part by Scranton Tomorrow, the Lackawanna County Commissioners, The City of Scranton, and Audacy Pennsylvania.
Morristell Receives 2023 Change Maker Award On Thursday, June 15, Nicole Morristell, executive director of Leadership Lackawanna received the 2023 Change Makers Awards presented by the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce. The award was presented at Light up the Valley, held at Public Square Park in Wilkes-Barre. Morristell and 40 community influencers were recognized for their outstanding efforts to make NEPA a brighter place. Through her efforts, Morristell impacts the community by being an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion; volunteerism and innovation—improving the quality of life in the greater Scranton region. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com. About Leadership LackawannaLeadership Lackawanna, an affiliate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is a 501(c)(3) charitable, nonprofit organization in northeastern Pennsylvania dedicated to community leadership and professional development. Leadership’s six programs: Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, Leadership Collegiate, Core, Leadership Fundamentals 2.0, Executive, and Welcome Scranton!—enhance the skills, connections, and knowledge of emerging and established leaders, enabling them better to serve our communities, workplaces, and organizations. Established in 1982, Leadership Lackawanna has created more than 2,500 community leaders. For more information, visit www.leadershiplackawanna.com.
The Chamber to Host Summer Business Card Exchange The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce will host its Summer Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, June 28, from 5–7 p.m. at High Tines Archery at 116 Monahan Ave., Dunmore. High Tines is a family-run archery pro shop and shooting range with owners who have over 20 years of experience in the archery and outdoor industry. While immersed in a unique outdoors-themed setting, members of The Chamber can make new connections, expand their professional network, and enjoy complimentary beverages and lite snacks. Members who attend the event can enter their business cards to win a door prize. Register for the June 28 Business Card Exchange by visiting https://www.scrantonchamber.com/events/business-card-exchange-at-high-tines-archery/. Professional networking often serves as a foundation for a successful business, which is why The Chamber regularly opens such opportunities to its members. If you want to join this strong community of leaders, please visit www.scrantonchamber.com or call (570) 342–7711 for more information. About The High Tines Archery and OutdoorsHigh Tines Archery is a family-owned and operated pro shop and indoor archery range. The owners, Greg and Maria, along with their children and family members, work closely with customers to provide individual attention to each person that walks through the door. Greg, with 20+ years in the archery and outdoors industry, and Maria, with 20+ years as an educator in secondary schools, use their knowledge and skills to provide adults and children with enjoyable and informative experiences. About The Greater Scranton Chamber of CommerceThe Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to improve the area’s economic environment and quality of life by offering programs and services which stimulate economic growth, promote business prosperity and nurture educational opportunities. For more information about the Chamber, visit www.scrantonchamber.com.
