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SETC Tax Credit Guide 153648
SETC Tax Credit Guide 153648
The Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC) is a significant financial relief program established under the Families First
Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) to support self-employed people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The SETC
provides refundable tax credits of up to $32,220 for eligible self-employed workers who were unable to work due to
COVID-related circumstances in 2020 and 2021.
Be self-employed (sole proprietor, freelancer, gig worker, or partnership member) Have filed a Schedule SE (Form
1040) for 2020 or 2021, reporting positive net income and paying self-employment taxes Have been unable to
work or telework due to COVID-19 related issues, such as having the virus, being under quarantine, or caring for
someone affected by the pandemic Claim the credit for eligible time periods between April 1, 2020, and September
30, 2021
If you have both self-employment income and W-2 earnings, you may still be eligible, but your SETC will be adjusted to
prevent double-dipping if you received paid leave benefits through your employer under setc tax credit benefits the
FFCRA.
Up to $32,220 in refundable tax credits for 2020 and 2021 combined Credits are based on your average daily self-
employment income and the number of days you were unable to work due to COVID-19 The average credit
amount is around $9,000, but can vary based on individual circumstances SETC is not taxable income and does
not add to your tax burden
Gather required documents, like 2019-2021 tax returns, Schedule SE, and records of COVID-impacted days
Complete IRS Form 7202 for the applicable tax years to calculate your credit amount Amend your tax returns
(Form 1040-X) to claim the credits Submit amended returns and wait for the IRS to process your refund (can take
up to 20 weeks)
Many self-employed people opt to work with a tax professional to ensure accuracy and maximize their credit. Services
typically charge a processing fee plus a percentage of the credit received.
For 2020 taxes: April 15, 2024 For 2021 taxes: April 15, 2025
It’s important to file amended returns claiming the SETC before these deadlines to receive your credits.
Conclusion
The Self-Employed Tax Credit offers much-needed financial support to self-employed workers whose livelihoods were
disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you qualify based on the eligibility criteria, amending your 2020 and 2021 tax
returns to claim the SETC can give substantial tax relief of up to $32,220. With the April 15, 2024 deadline approaching
for 2020 credits, now is the time for self-employed workers to investigate this valuable opportunity.